5 Questions to Ask before Beginning Divorce Mediation Proceedings

Divorce Mediators Orange County; California Divorce MediatorsWhen two people are at odds with each other, minor problems start to seem huge. When discussions and solutions no longer extinguish the fire, people turn to divorce. There are many different approaches people can take in terms of divorce, with divorce mediation being the most simple, fast, and effective one. If you and your partner have agreed on separating via divorce mediation, here are the questions that you may want to address before proceeding:

1.     What Can You Expect during Divorce Mediation?

A divorce mediation procedure consists of the married couple sitting down in a secluded room with their chosen divorce mediator. The divorce mediator, with the consent and involvement of the divorcing partners, works to resolution of all pending issues with the end goal of creating a comprehensive settlement agreement.  Divorce mediation is based on mutual agreement on unresolved issues. Therefore, partners need to remain civil when arriving at solutions.

2.     Will You Also Need An Attorney?

Many people think that if they are seeking the aid of a divorce mediator, they will not require the services of a divorce attorney. Either during or after a divorce mediator session, you have the right to hire a divorce attorney to help you go over the agreement and spot any irregularities in it, but that is entirely up to you. The attorney may also provide you with valid points to cover in the settlement agreement.  If the divorce mediator that you are using is also a divorce attorney, which will help assure that the agreement is drafted correctly.

3.     What is the Skill Level of the Divorce Mediator?

The law in most states does not require divorce mediators to hold a law degree. Therefore, when choosing a divorce mediator, be sure to find someone whose is experienced in dealing with two partners who want a calmer and more peaceful process to end their marriage. Another thing to consider when looking for a divorce mediator is to find one who is also a divorce/family law attorney, as they have knowledge of the law and real-life experience with divorce cases that he or she can draw from in working with you to come up with workable solutions.

4.     What Issues Are Addressed during Divorce Mediation?

Just like in any other divorce proceedings, a number of issues can be resolved. Some issues that are addressed during the meetings include child support, child custody, division of assets, and spousal support. Unlike in court where these issues would have created tension between the two parties, divorce mediation offers an alternate solution to calling it quits.

5.     Do You Need to Have Extensive Knowledge about Finances?

Individuals worry that their lack of knowledge in finances may lead to the other partner getting more in the settlement agreement.  Some individuals can fret over the financial assets that the other person may have hidden. Your divorce mediator can assist you in addressing those issues for both of you and explaining the financial ramifications.  If you want further information to determine for yourself as to whether the financial terms of your marital settlement agreement are in your best interests, you can consult a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst.  The CDFA will update you on your current financial situation and inform you what you may need to keep track of in the future. With the knowledge they can provide you with, you can proceed with divorce mediation with more confidence that you are working out your divorce case in a way that makes the most financial sense for you.

If you are planning to go through with divorce mediation proceedings, and you are located in Orange County or anywhere else in California, you should seek the assistance of a reliable California divorce mediator. For further information or to schedule a consultation with California Divorce Mediators, please call (949) 553-0911 or visit www.cadivorcemediators.com.  California Divorce Mediators is an experienced Orange County Divorce Mediation and Family Law firm serving the Orange County and Riverside areas and neighboring counties, serving individuals, couples and families with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, spousal support, child support and child custody issues.  As Orange County divorce mediators and Orange County divorce lawyers, we have the experience to help you decide if divorce mediation is a good option for you and your situation.

Tagged with: , , , , ,