The mediation process has become a very popular option for divorcing couples who would rather not engage in a prolonged court battle. In fact, trying mediation is actually encouraged by the Minnesota court system before you take your case to court. Successful mediation begins with you and your partner having an open mind, a commitment to finding solutions that are best for your entire family and being open to compromise. If you are able to find a way to bring a positive approach to this process, you will very likely find the results much more satisfying than a court battle. Johnson Mediation is dedicated to helping couples navigate divorce so that you can focus on your future, rather than all of the pain of your past.
Here are five tips for a successful mediated divorce:
- Be willing to look for common ground and compromise: The foundation of the mediation process is compromise. You and your soon to be ex-spouse work with a mediator to settle important aspects of your divorce including dividing property, creating a parenting plan, and deciding whether child and/or spousal support is necessary. Rather than leaving these decisions in the hands of a judge, you find creative solutions that you both agree to.
- Communicate openly and in a respectful manner: Strong communication skills go a long way when it comes to successful mediation. Your mediator can help you with this and set the tone for your discussions, but ultimately, you will need to be open, honest, and transparent and speak in a respectful tone for mediation to have the best possible results.
- Be an active participant in the process: If you decide to pursue mediation, it is important to understand that you and your spouse make the big decisions about your divorce settlement. Your mediator is not a decider, but a facilitator of the discussion.
- Think ahead: It is important during the divorce mediation process to think ahead as much as you can about issues that you think may come up in the future, particularly if you share children. You may want to discuss vacations, holidays, educational decisions in your divorce mediation session so that you have a common understanding of how these issues will be decided after your divorce is final.
- Keep your eye on your future: Divorce is extremely difficult and there is no doubt that your entire family comes into the process feeling hurt. Mediation can help you move forward with your life more quickly and without financial strain. It is always helpful to keep looking forward during your discussions rather than focusing on the pain and loss of the past.
Minnesota Divorce Mediation
Johnson Mediation can help you navigate your divorce in a way that helps you heal. We understand how difficult the process is and will offer resources, support and guidance that can help you avoid a long and expensive divorce. For more information about our divorce mediation services, call us at 952-401-7599.
