5 Mistakes to Avoid in Divorce Mediation

Divorce is not a predictable process as each family has unique structures and needs that need to be addressed through the resolution process. As well, since emotions are often running it can be difficult to stay focused on the logistics of the process.  Though separating from your spouse is stressful and mistakes can happen, there are some mistakes that you should avoid making during the mediation process.

Many decisions that are made during the process of mediation can affect both parties for their entire lives and you do not want anything to compromise their validity. Make things easier on yourself by keeping the process smooth. Bad etiquette and making these mistakes, intentionally or unintentionally, will only hinder the process and bring everyone out on the losing end. At the end of the day, you will feel accomplished simply by knowing that you gave mediation your best effort.

1. Acting with Emotions

You cannot let your emotions control the mediation session. It is normal to experience a marriage of extreme emotions during a divorce, but coming to an amicable agreement about import issues is dependent on you keeping a clear head. Mediation is not the time to lash out or wear your heart on your sleeve.

Before going to your mediation session, consider speaking to a counsellor or therapist. Going to a counsellor will not only help you to have a clear head for mediation, but it will also promote positive health and growth as you are going through your divorce.

2. Forgetting the Children

It is hard to not be selfish when your world is being flipped upside down, and many divorcing couples forget the wellbeing of their children during the trying process. Be sure to keep their best interests in mind as you are making decisions.

3. Letting the Past Lead the Future

You must forget the past as you enter your mediation session. Look towards the future and decide how it can built with the decisions at hand. Visiting a life coach before mediation will help you to develop an action plan before mediation begins.

4. Being Stubborn

Refusing to compromise is counterproductive. You must be willing to negotiate terms and remain flexible. Accept that you will not achieve all of your wishes, but that the outcome can be positive if you and your ex-spouse are willing to give and take while making decisions.

5. Rushing Through Divorce

Many people are under the impression that all divorce cases end up in a court room. That is not true; couples are able to resolve their issues outside of court very often. Take your time before mediation and become educated with divorce and the different ways in which it can be accomplished. Gather yourself, have a clear head, visit a trusted counsellor and collect the information you will need for making choices during mediation. Slow and steady wins the race.

Your divorce does not have to be a train wreck. Keep these common mistakes in mind and you will be more likely to have a smooth divorce mediation experience.

Disclaimer: The content provided in the blog posts of Jones Divorce & Family Law is general information and should not be considered legal advice. Please contact a lawyer for legal advice tailored to your specific situation. All articles are current as of their original publication date.