What do I need to prepare for my mediation?
Preparing for family mediation during divorce or custody proceedings is essential to ensure a productive and successful process. Here is a list of things someone should do or know before entering mediation:
Understand the Mediation Process: Familiarize yourself with how mediation works, what to expect during sessions, and the role of the mediator. Understanding the process can help you feel more at ease.
Choose the Right Mediator: Research and select a qualified and experienced family mediator. Here, at Family Law Mediation Services, you get to choose a mediator with experience in compassionate and culturally empathetic care.
Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all relevant documents, such as financial records, child-related information (e.g., school schedules, medical records), and any legal documents related to the divorce or custody proceedings.
Clarify Your Goals: Clearly define your objectives and priorities for mediation. What outcomes are you hoping to achieve? Being clear about your goals can guide your discussions during mediation.
Budget for Mediation Costs: Understand the financial aspects of mediation. At Family Law Mediation Services, we have a sliding scale prices making mediation available to you and your budget.
Legal Consultation: If you are going through your domestic legal process with an attorney, consult with an attorney before mediation to understand your legal rights and obligations. While mediation is non-adversarial, having legal advice can be beneficial. However, pro se litigants can go to mediation without an attorney.
Prepare Emotionally: Emotions can run high during mediation. Prepare yourself emotionally for the process, and consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to manage stress and anxiety.
Keep an Open Mind: Approach mediation with an open mind and a willingness to compromise. Flexibility and a cooperative attitude can lead to better outcomes.
Child's Best Interest: Always keep the best interests of the child(ren) in mind. Focus on their well-being and what will be in their best interest when making decisions.
List of Concerns: Make a list of your concerns, questions, and any issues you'd like to address during mediation. This can help keep your discussions focused and organized.
Communication Skills: Brush up on effective communication skills. Mediation relies on open and respectful dialogue, so practice active listening and constructive communication.
Conflict Resolution Strategies: Learn about conflict resolution strategies and techniques that can help you navigate disagreements and disputes during mediation.
Commit to Confidentiality: Understand and commit to the confidentiality of the mediation process. What is said during mediation sessions should remain confidential and not be used in court.
Be Prepared for Multiple Sessions: Occasionally, mediation may require more than one session to reach a resolution. Be prepared for this possibility and be patient throughout the process.
Consider Backup Plans: While the goal of mediation is to reach an agreement, it's wise to have a backup plan in case mediation doesn't lead to a resolution. Discuss this with your attorney, if you have one.
Respect the Mediator's Role: Respect the mediator's role as a neutral third party. Avoid trying to use the mediator as an advocate or taking advantage of their neutrality.
Stay Committed to Resolution: Mediation is most effective when both parties are committed to reaching a resolution. Be prepared to invest time and effort into the process.
Review Agreements Carefully: Once an agreement is reached, review it carefully before signing. Ensure that it accurately reflects what was discussed and agreed upon.
By taking these steps and being well-prepared, you can maximize the benefits of family mediation and work towards a successful resolution of divorce or custody issues in a collaborative and amicable manner.