Navigating the Florida Divorce Mediation Process

Legally ending a marriage doesn’t require drawn-out and contentious courtroom disputes. In fact, many couples are able to resolve their issues through divorce mediation in an out-of-court setting, which is not only more efficient and less stressful, but generally less expensive and more amicable.

Understanding Divorce Mediation 

Divorce mediation is a process in which couples work with a mediator to resolve their divorce-related issues and come to an agreement on the terms of their divorce, such as property division, alimony, and child custody. As neutral third-parties, mediators can facilitate communication between the parties, clarify legal issues, and encourage cooperation, but they are not allowed to make decisions on the couple’s behalf. Instead, the goal is to help the couples reach a settlement on their own that both find fair.

Preparing for Divorce Mediation 

Before couples can engage in mediation, they’ll need to take a few preparatory steps, including:

• Gathering their financial documents, so that their later discussions will be based on comprehensive, accurate data;
• Setting clear goals and identifying priorities ahead of time, which can help the parties remain focused during negotiations; and
• Learning more about their legal rights and obligations.

By taking these steps ahead of time, divorcing couples can quicken the negotiation process even further, increasing their chances of reaching a settlement with which both parties are satisfied.

During Divorce Mediation 

Once couples initiate the divorce mediation process, it’s important that they remain open-minded, as this process can only succeed when both parties are willing to negotiate and compromise. Couples should be ready to consider different perspectives and potential solutions, remaining flexible throughout the process. Other important things to keep in mind include the importance of:

• Communicating effectively by remaining clear and respectful and being an active listener who avoids recriminations;
• Focusing on the future and coming up with solutions that will work best for both parties moving forward; and
• Prioritizing the well-being of their children by coming up with a parenting plan that is in their best interests.

Focusing on communication and open-mindedness can go a long way towards improving the chances of a successful mediation.

After Divorce Mediation 

Spouses who are able to come up with an agreement in mediation will still need to:

• Review their agreement with an attorney to make sure it is fair and that all important divorce-related aspects have been properly addressed;
• File the signed agreement with the court for review; and
• Follow through by adhering to the terms of the agreement.

To learn more about any step in Florida’s mediation proceedings, feel free to reach out to our legal team for advice.

Here to Help You Navigate the Divorce Mediation Process 

For help navigating the mediation process during your own Florida divorce, please call 727-683-1472 and set up a meeting with one of the experienced Largo divorce lawyers at Cairns Law. We can help you work towards a respectful and cooperative resolution with your spouse. Call or contact us online to get started today.

Source: 

flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Alternative-Dispute-Resolution/Mediation-in-Florida