Mediation offers an effective way to resolve the disputes in your divorce without the need for litigation. A successful mediation process requires effective communication and active participation by both parties. In Minnesota, most courts require mediation before litigating a divorce in court.
If you and your spouse think mediation could help you settle your case, there are tips to help you navigate the process.
1. Look at the big picture
When you negotiate your divorce, you might get bogged down in the details and bicker over things unnecessarily. Consider the big picture, including your long-term priorities and goals. When you look at the process from a larger perspective, it gets easier to avoid the smaller disagreements that breed contempt and hostility between you.
2. Be flexible
Compromise is key when you want a successful mediation process. When you approach negotiations looking for solutions that benefit both of you, that improves your chances of success. Remember that mediation allows for greater creativity in your solutions than litigation.
3. Avoid rushing
Many couples choose mediation in an effort to reach a faster settlement. While mediation does save time in the process, rushing through it could lead to hasty decisions that you regret later. Approach your mediation process with patience and focus on equitable settlement solutions instead of fast ones.
Mediation often saves couples significantly compared to the cost of litigation. In fact, Forbes reports that some mediators cost as little as $100 per hour. Mediator-facilitated settlements often take far less time, which means you spend less in legal fees and time to settle your divorce.