What to Ask for in Divorce Mediation

Mediation is a process through which two married people with different perspectives try to work out their differences and reach a peaceful solution that will satisfy each of them. That could mean finding a way to compromise on certain things, coming up with your own ideas of what will be beneficial in your new family situation, or even going through with a divorce.

Sometimes, things just cannot be changed and both partners decide divorce is ultimately the best option. Mediation should always come first.

Identifying the issues for each party and finding areas of agreement is a key element of any cordial mediation process. Then present your case to an impartial third party like a Rancho Cucamonga family law attorney that will serve as a neutral party before you decide exactly what to ask for in divorce mediation.

What To Expect During the Mediation Process

During divorce mediation, agreements are created that will determine each spouse’s future role in the family. The goal of mediation is to come to an agreement about parenting responsibilities, spousal support, and dispersal of assets.

It’s important to identify what you want and articulate it clearly, giving careful consideration to:

 — Equitable Distribution. Fair dispersion of assets is crucial to minimize resentment. If you’re the one that takes custody of the kids, then ask to be granted ownership of the home. If you own a business together, ask to keep your share.

 — Parental Rights. If you want sole custody of the children, ask for it, but be prepared to explain why your ex should be kept away from the kids. If you plan on sharing responsibility, detail each parent’s role in the child’s home life, family time, and schooling.

Ask yourself if you want shared custody or weekend visitation only. Co-parenting has become popular because both parents share responsibility for the child’s upbringing equally. Parenting styles vary widely and the time to discuss it is in mediation. Iron out these details and customize your role in the family to fit everyone’s needs early on to avoid headaches later.

 — Health Insurance. If your spouse has health insurance coverage through their employer and you have none, it is perfectly reasonable to ask for health insurance.

Conversely, if you’re getting divorced and you have a health plan that covers your spouse, make sure you check your policy to see if you may still owe an extra premium for your ex-spouse and/or children after divorce and include that in your bargaining.

Decide On Your Terms, Then Call a Lawyer

Once you’ve decided what to ask for in divorce mediation, you’ll need a lawyer who can serve the needs of your family. Take the first step by contacting The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock at 909-466-7661 or fill out our convenient online contact form.

We do everything we can to make sure our clients are comfortable and prepared for the upcoming process, whether it be mediation or collaborative divorce, and we help you get what they want from the marriage.