Steps to Take Before Divorce Resolution Talks Begin

 Posted on October 13, 2022 in Mediation

A large percentage of spouses getting divorced in the modern era do not turn to a court to decide each issue in their case, but rather, arrive at a mutually agreeable settlement on their own through alternative dispute resolution techniques, such as mediation and attorney-facilitated negotiation. These techniques can save both parties substantial time, stress, and money when used properly. Avoiding a need to litigate your divorce can prevent the diminution of the marital asset by sparing expenses associated with gathering evidence and proceeding through a trial. However, it is important that you take certain steps to protect your interests before beginning the dispute-resolution process. A lack of preparation can interfere with your ability to strike a fair bargain and influence the ultimate outcome of your divorce. A qualified divorce attorney can assess your case and offer you advice particular to your unique situation, as the preparation needed for divorce mediation or negotiation can vary based on the specific issues of your divorce.

Preparing to Enter Divorce Mediation or Negotiation

Steps you should take in preparation for the commencement of divorce resolution talks may include:

• Know your non-negotiables - Everyone has hard boundaries in settling a divorce out of court. It is important to set realistic, but firm, boundaries regarding what you will or will not accept in the divorce decree. For many parents, a certain amount of parenting time is a firm non-negotiable.
• Obtain appraisals and valuations - If you have complex assets or assets of uncertain value, it would be wise to ensure that you have a current appraisal or valuation before negotiating property division. You would not want to agree to give up an asset of substantial value without receiving substitute assets of roughly equivalent value.
• Emotional preparedness - Divorce can be a highly personal and overtly emotional process. Simply coming to the mediation table can be enormously challenging for many. Strong emotions toward your spouse, the end of your marriage, your child custody concerns, and other aspects of the divorce are quite normal. However, it is important to be emotionally prepared for the realities of resolving a divorce so that you are able to stay on-topic and as collected as possible during the meetings. You may want a plan for self-care during the process.
• Gather records - Any financial records from during the marriage are likely to be relevant during asset division. You may need documents such as tax returns, bank statements and records, deeds to your real estate, and other financial records.

Preparing for divorce resolution discussions can be stressful, and at times challenging, but the importance of good preparation cannot be understated.

Call an Illinois Divorce Lawyer

Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley will take measures to ensure that we are ready for divorce resolution efforts. Our skilled Arlington Heights divorce attorneys will strive to take all measures prudent to prepare for mediation or negotiation. Contact us at 847-253-3100 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://auritmediation.com/how-to-prepare-for-divorce-mediation/#