Understanding and Preparing for Divorce Mediation

Understanding and Preparing for Divorce Mediation

Going through a divorce is a difficult process for all involved, divorcing couples and children alike. It can take a heavy emotional, social, and financial toll and, in the bad cases of divorce, can lead to toxic proceedings and decisions. That said, there are measures enacted to make this process a bit easier on both your time and money.

For instance, divorce mediations are a time that both spouses can come together, moderated by a neutral third party, and discuss the terms of their divorce in a respectable and fair manner.

Mediation is a vital part of the divorce process and can make your situation easier to deal with if you prepare and take it seriously. Let’s take a closer look at what a divorce mediation session actually is and the steps you can take to properly prepare for it. 

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is a key aspect of a divorce process in which the two divorcing parties meet with a third-party, trained mediator to discuss and resolve overarching issues and hold-ups of a divorce. During this time, it gives the parties a chance to divide assets, come to agreements, and even dispute resolutions. Generally, the mediation process takes place in an office setting but can also occur online. 

What is discussed during these sessions will vary depending on each situation but oftentimes, some of the things that the parties will work to come to an agreement on include:

During the process, a mediator will not offer legal advice but will serve as a facilitator and ensure the proceedings remain civil and effective.

Ultimately, when the spouses reach an agreement on the terms that they came to discuss, mediators will draft and can file a divorce settlement agreement.

During divorce mediation, divorce attorneys are allowed to be present, however, some mediators discourage it as it may create tension. If your mediator allows lawyers to be present, it is likely in your best interest to find a divorce attorney that you can consult with both before and after the mediation.

If you need help finding a divorce attorney, our team at Hart Ginney, LLP can help you. If you need to know more about divorce mediation, call us today and read on to learn how best to prepare for a mediation.

How Do I Prepare for Divorce Mediation?

Before the mediation, the mediator or perhaps an assistant will reach out to you to discuss basic background information so that they can have a better understanding of the case prior to being in the room. Some things you will likely discuss include information on your marriage, family, causes for divorce, and more. 

You may also be asked to write up a mediation statement in which you will outline the divorce-related issues that are most important to you to get resolved. 

Along with these actions you’ll need to take for the mediator, there are some things that can be helpful to get in order on your end. First off is simple, a list of key points and items that you want to make sure is discussed during the mediation.

Along with that, you’ll want to have a verified list of your assets handy as property, income, bank account information, and even other assets like social security if the parties are old enough. Assets and property are two things that are sure to come up in divorce mediation, so make sure it is something you discuss prior to the mediation with your legal counsel.

Mediation Help at Hart Ginney, LLP

If you are interested in learning more about the divorce mediation process and want to know how a divorce and family law attorney can help you in this situation, contact our team today. 

We specialize in family law, mediation, divorce, and more to help ensure that all our clients are treated fairly during divorce proceedings. Give us a call today or fill out our contact form now to get in touch. 

1939 Harrison Street, Suite 210
Oakland, CA 94612

To speak with an attorney, please call or email us:

Alternatively you can fill in the following contact form: