Alternative Divorce Solutions offers a Free Divorce Mediation Consultation in Newport Beach
Wondering how to prepare for your divorce mediation consultation?
Preparing for your divorce mediation consultation:
This is such a popular topic that we have decided to re-visit it in this blog post. We meet so many couples who walk into their divorce mediation consultation appointment fearful of what is going to happen. For most, divorce is the unknown and the unknown is scary. These couples don’t know how much the divorce mediation process is going to cost, how long it will take, and even if they can afford to live separately after it is over. There are so many moving pieces in their minds, and we usually end up proving a lot of information to ease their minds. To avoid this uncertainty, we have created the following list of things to consider before your appointment:
1. Know what you have
It may be a good idea to sit down with your spouse and discuss your financial situation. When you are entering into the divorce mediation process, it is a good idea to know what it is that you will be dividing. Are there bank accounts, retirement/investment accounts, college funds for your children? All of these things matter.
2. Know your goals/priorities
Divorce is far from perfect, but take some time to think about the things that will make your life easier when the divorce is final. Does it make more sense for you to keep your home, or a retirement asset? Do you need more liquidity (cash) or more security? Knowing what you need/want will help your divorce mediator help you figure out how to make it happen.
3. Know what to expect
Divorce mediation is a very different process than litigation. In litigation (when you hire attorneys to go to court), you are not given any guarantees on the outcome, timeline or cost. In divorce mediation, you are provided with these items. While divorce mediation is far less expensive than litigation given that you are not hiring two attorneys and blowing through your valuable time, it is still a valuable service. Therefore, be prepared to pay a reasonable value for a highly qualified and trained mediator. It will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
4. Stay calm
Remember that your consultation is an introductory appointment. You are there to gain information about the divorce mediation process and figure out whether the divorce mediator/divorce mediation attorney is a good fit for you and your spouse. Nothing you say at this appointment will be used against you, and you will have plenty of time to ask questions. Once you know you will be in a safe environment where your questions will be answered, you can breathe easy.