If you’re preparing for your first divorce mediation session, now is a great time to go over the things you can do to make it work out better for you.
Planning for your mediation process is important. Every mediation session is different, but there are four things you can do to help yourself get the best settlement:
1. Don’t be afraid to negotiate
Don’t be scared to negotiate. Your attorney can help you prepare by going over what you’re willing, or unwilling, to negotiate. When the time comes, you’ll know what is or is not an acceptable offer.
2. Stay confident
If there is something you need out of your divorce and you know you’re making the other person a good deal, stay confident in that decision. You don’t have to negotiate every aspect of the divorce, especially if doing so would negatively impact you. Be confident in your requests and the offers you make.
3. Stay on topic
During your mediation sessions, stay on topic. You should focus on what’s happening in front of you and avoid going on tangents. Staying on task will help you get through mediation faster and resolve your divorce issues sooner.
4. Don’t give away your hand
If something the other person says upsets you or you know you have a good deal you could make in exchange for what you want, you should wait and see how the situation plays out first. Don’t automatically give the best deal you would agree with to the other person. You want to see what they’re willing to give up as well.
Mediation is about negotiating and being willing to compromise, but you still need to protect your best interests. Find out more about how divorce mediation works today.