Mediation is the most popular way to end a marriage in Florida. The Florida courts will require divorcees to attempt mediation before bringing the matter before the courts. In mediation, you will meet with an attorney who will help you negotiate a settlement for your divorce. In this article, the Tampa, FL divorce mediation attorneys at Westchase Law, P.A. will discuss how you should prepare for mediation.
You’ll need a consensus to make mediation work
You will want to discuss the benefits of mediation with your spouse. The most obvious benefit is that it is quicker and cheaper. While the Florida courts require that divorcees attempt mediation, the process will not work unless both spouses are on board with the process. During the process, an attorney will help handle negotiations related to the divorce. You and your soon-to-be former spouse will need to agree that mediation is in both of your best interests.
Collecting documents for your mediated divorce
The mediation process will not work unless you have your documents in order. You will need to have a firm handle on your assets and liabilities (debts). You will need to include any property that you own, your financial accounts, your investments, and your debts. If you are required to file a financial affidavit, you will want to have your divorce lawyer look it over. It is important to have these documents at the ready to help the mediation process proceed smoothly and quickly. This will ultimately save you time and money.
Know what your goals are in a mediated divorce
Once you’ve determined what your assets and liabilities are, you will need to decide what you want most out of your divorce. You will need to spend a substantial amount of time thinking about what you want out of the divorce. Your future is on the line. You should consider making a list of assets that you cannot live without and draft a budget so you know what financial position you will be in after the divorce is finalized.
Considering the children as part of a mediated divorce
As part of your mediated divorce, you will need to consider the best interests of your children. It may be that you want to spend as much time with your children as possible. But if they don’t go to school near where you live, it may not be in their best interests to live with you. Mediation is about compromise and compromise leads to a successful mediation.
It is likewise important to consider your children when you are not in mediation sessions. You never want to speak badly about the other spouse in front of your children. Divorce is difficult on children and you don’t want to make matters worse unless there is a good reason to do so.
Talk to a Tampa, FL Divorce Mediation Lawyer Today
Westchase Law, P.A. can help you mediate your divorce settlement. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin helping you untie the knot and moving on with your life right away.