Even though your marriage comes to an end, you usually have to maintain some relationship with your spouse following your divorce. This is especially true if you have children of whom you share custody. Mediation is a means of alternative dispute resolution that helps to maintain a cordial relationship between you and your spouse.
Even though mediation is a non-antagonistic process, it can be a little intimidating at first. It may help if you know what to expect going into it.
Mediator’s introduction
The mediator is the person who oversees the process. A mediator is not a judge and does not have the authority to make decisions for you. His or her job is to facilitate productive discussion between you and your spouse. The ability to choose your own mediator is one of the many advantages of this form of alternative dispute resolution.
SF Gate describes the introduction that the mediator makes at the beginning of the process. He or she will ask all parties to respect the rights of others. The introduction also serves to establish the ground rules. Even though a mediation is not a trial, you and your spouse have the opportunity to make an opening statement.
Private and joint meetings
The introduction typically takes place with all parties present. The mediator may choose to continue joint sessions or hold private meetings with you and your spouse in separate rooms. During private meetings, the mediator may ask you about your expectations or set tasks for you.
If you and your spouse reach a settlement through mediation, the next step is to draw up and sign an agreement. If there is no settlement, the mediation can resume after a few weeks, or you can choose another method of resolving your dispute. Mediation has a high success rate, and non-settlements are rare.
