Settling the issues you have associated with your divorce through mediation can help you to have the final decree issued sooner rather than later. Even though you might not relish the thought of having to work with your ex because the shock of him filing for divorce is fresh in your mind, mediation can still be a viable option because you will work with a mediator instead of you and your ex trying to work things out alone. The mediation process doesn’t have to be as shocking as learning your ex was leaving you if you take these tips into consideration.
Take care of yourself
Don’t get lost in all the hubbub of the sudden divorce. Instead, make sure that you are taking care of yourself. Getting rest, eating a balanced diet, and doing activities that you enjoy can help you to keep a clear head as you come to terms with the end of your marriage. Enjoy a girls’ night out to help you get out and socialize. This can bolster your spirit as you work through who is going to get what. It is especially important if you are also caring for your children.
Prepare emotionally
Your emotions can cloud your judgment. Before you go into a mediation session, be sure to take a few minutes to focus on what is going on and what you need to do. When it comes time to negotiate, don’t let your emotional attachment to things rule you. Instead, take the time to think logically about each decision or offer you make.
Make a list
Make a list of the points on which you are willing to negotiate and the ones that you will stand firm on. Bring this list with you when you meet with your attorney and when you are going into a session. You can refer to this if you start to stress out or need to regroup.
Gather documents
Get copies of any documents you might need for mediation. This includes deeds, titles, financial documents, and anything else you think might be important. While you need the originals of some documents, such as deeds to real property, you can bring copies of other documents like bank statements. If you have any questions about what you need to bring, be sure to ask your attorney.
Consider all options
During the back and forth of mediation, you might be presented with an option that you didn’t think about before. Carefully consider these options. You may find that there is something offered that you didn’t consider but that actually works much better for you. Be sure to think about the pros and cons of each consideration so that you aren’t saddled with all the debt without having any of the assets. You shouldn’t let your soon-to-be ex-husband force you into a settlement with which you are not comfortable.