When family disputes and violations reach to an edge, it either leads to divorce or mediation (if the situation is not too worst, or there’s no long dispute history). Mediation is often seen as a more beneficial option than going to court. By working with a mediator, couples can resolve disputes more efficiently, within their respectful boundaries, and affordably.
A successful mediation is not easier, it takes certain steps and stages to make it effective one, and favorable for you.Want to know what those steps and stages are? Keep reading
What are the Steps in Mediation Process?
If you’re considering divorce mediation in Massachusetts, here are the four steps you need to take:
- Meet with a mediator – You and your spouse will need to meet with a mediator to start the mediation process. This professional will help facilitate discussions and provide impartial guidance.
- Identify your goals – Before meeting with your mediator, it’s important to identify your divorce goals. What are your priorities? What do you want to achieve through Mediation?
- Discuss your divorce – Once you’ve met with your mediator, it’s time to start discussing your divorce. You’ll need to openly communicate with your spouse about all aspects of the divorce, including child custody, property division, and alimony.
- Resolve – The goal of mediation is to reach a divorce settlement that both parties can agree to. With the help of a mediation in Massachusetts, you and your spouse will work together to agree on all divorce-related issues.
Once you’re ready for your mediation process, here starts the stages through which the mediation process goes on.
Stages of Mediation in Massachusetts
There are four stages for a successful mediation process that you should know to have a successful session. Ultimately, the success of your mediation depends on the comfort level you have with the mediator you choose.
These include;
- Gathering information
The first stage of divorce mediation is gathering information. The mediator will meet with each spouse separately to gather information about their divorce case. The mediator will also collect financial information from both spouses.
- Identification of issues
The second stage of divorce mediation is identifying the issues in the divorce case. The mediator will help the spouses identify the problems that need to be resolved in the divorce.
- Developing options
The third stage of divorce mediation is developing options to resolve the divorce issues. The mediator will help the spouses develop options to resolve their divorce issues.
- Reaching an Agreement
The fourth stage of divorce mediation is reaching an agreement. The mediator will help the spouses reach an agreement on the divorce issues. The contract will be put in writing and signed by both spouses.
What Factors To Consider for Divorce Mediation?
When you choose to participate in divorce mediation in Massachusetts, you should consider the following factors:
- How long does the marriage last?
- Whether the spouses shared physical custody or joint legal custody
- How much money would each party like to keep or give?
During the mediation process, both parties will be able to communicate without any assistance from their attorneys. This will allow each spouse to express their interests and needs clearly. It will also help reduce power dynamics and reach a fair resolution. The mediator should be impartial and should not represent either party.
On other hand, they should also be able to establish a good working relationship with both parties. Once the parties agree to a mediator’s recommendations, they can move forward with their negotiations or take the case to court.
Mediation offers many benefits for couples who are getting divorced. It’s typically faster and less expensive than going to court, and it allows couples to have more control over the divorce process.
These steps and stages are necessary to learn for a successful mediation process. Every divorce is different so the specific details will vary depending on your situation.Since there is no one-size-fits-all approach to Massachusetts divorce mediator, so understanding these steps and stages can help you prepare for and participate more effectively
Considering divorce mediation in Massachusetts, visit Baron Law Mediation. Or, stay tuned to our blogging channel to know more about such useful procedures, tips, and suggestions for divorce mediation or other steps in divorce proceedings.