Mediation and Communication
November 19, 2015 by West Coast ADR
When you are considering mediation for your divorce, it’s important to understand that this option can often be more challenging than it first appears. While mediation can help you avoid playing out your divorce over several months in the courts, both you and your soon-to-be-ex spouse have to understand that this is a collaborative process and approach it as such.
One of the most important aspects of mediation is how you approach communication. Mediation by definition involves a great deal of communication back and forth on how you are going to handle the various matters related to your divorce. In a time where there is often a great deal of emotional turmoil, keeping your conversations as neutral and civil as possible can be a challenge.
As you work through the terms of your divorce settlement, it can be helpful to keep in mind that many relationships break down due to issues in communication or the lack thereof. Try to avoid the temptation to approach your mediation with the same strategies and dialogues that were present in your relationship. Think about your ex as a business client with whom you are trying to make a deal.
When you are dealing with your ex in a mediation environment, our firm’s lawyers can be of great help in making sure that you are approaching the discussion as productively as possible and not bringing in emotions and issues from your relationship. If you and your ex can keep your mediation discussions to the point, you may be able to come to a settlement sooner than if you were to go through the courts and be ready to move on with your lives. Our professional experience and legal skills can help you achieve your goals in the split.
When you are considering mediation for your divorce, it’s important to understand that this option can often be more challenging than it first appears. While mediation can help you avoid playing out your divorce over several months in the courts, both you and your soon-to-be-ex spouse have to understand that this is a collaborative process and approach it as such.
One of the most important aspects of mediation is how you approach communication. Mediation by definition involves a great deal of communication back and forth on how you are going to handle the various matters related to your divorce. In a time where there is often a great deal of emotional turmoil, keeping your conversations as neutral and civil as possible can be a challenge.
As you work through the terms of your divorce settlement, it can be helpful to keep in mind that many relationships break down due to issues in communication or the lack thereof. Try to avoid the temptation to approach your mediation with the same strategies and dialogues that were present in your relationship. Think about your ex as a business client with whom you are trying to make a deal.
When you are dealing with your ex in a mediation environment, our firm’s lawyers can be of great help in making sure that you are approaching the discussion as productively as possible and not bringing in emotions and issues from your relationship. If you and your ex can keep your mediation discussions to the point, you may be able to come to a settlement sooner than if you were to go through the courts and be ready to move on with your lives. Our professional experience and legal skills can help you achieve your goals in the split.