How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation

 Posted on September 27, 2018 in Divorce

Any divorce is not going to be easy to prepare for. In some ways, a mediated divorce can be even more difficult to prepare for. Because of the cooperative nature of divorce mediation, you have to put your feelings aside so that you can effectively work with your soon-to-be-ex to come to a divorce agreement that you both are comfortable with. Divorce mediation has many benefits that come with it, but that does not mean it is easier to do. Here are a few ways you can prepare for your divorce mediation:

Gather All of Your Important Documents

Like most things, being prepared will serve you well. When you come to your mediation sessions, be sure to have copies or originals of all of your important documents, which can include:

• Bank accounts;
• Retirement funds;
• Deeds or income from real estate;
• Titles to vehicles;
• Equity in any companies you or your spouse are involved in;
• Mortgages;
• Credit card debts; and
• Any other document that is pertinent to your finances or assets.

 Come Prepared to Negotiate

The whole point of divorce mediation is to facilitate negotiation rather than fighting. In a divorce mediation, arguments will get you nowhere. You and your spouse agreed to do mediation because you both wanted to work together to come to a divorce agreement, rather than constantly fight in court. If you come to your mediation sessions in a combative state of mind, chances are, you will not accomplish much. Come to your sessions ready to negotiate and you will have a much easier time.

Know What You Are Entitled To

You should also educate yourself before you begin negotiating. In Michigan, courts practice a fair distribution of assets, which means that it does not technically have to be equal, it just has to be equitable. If you were a stay-at-home parent during the marriage, you may be entitled to more than you think because courts look at the value of raising the children and taking care of the home. Do your research and determine whether or not you are entitled to certain property or are responsible for certain debts.

Hire a Skilled Oakland County Divorce Mediator

This is possibly one of the most important things you can do to prepare for a mediated divorce. You should hire a Farmington Hills divorce mediator that you mesh well with and that is understanding of your situation. Elkouri Heath, PLC can help you and your spouse come to a divorce agreement that you both are comfortable with and that you both agree on. To schedule a consultation, call the office today at 248-344-9700.

Source:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/michelle-rozen/how-to-prepare-for-your-f_b_4109798.html