Anyone have advice on mediation?

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-27-2007
Anyone have advice on mediation?
2
Wed, 08-29-2007 - 10:04am
I am scheduled for mediation with my X next week. My lawyer nor his will be attending. Only me, x, and mediator. Any advice on what to expect? What should I do to prepare for this?
Lu
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-25-2003
Wed, 08-29-2007 - 11:57am
Mediation can work if both of you are willing to negotiate. Otherwise it's yet another court sponsored waste of money and time.
iVillage Member
Registered: 08-23-2007
Wed, 08-29-2007 - 12:58pm

Be careful. My husband wanted to go the route of mediation. I agreed to it and attended with my lawyer. It doesn't hurt to listen to what the other side is willing to offer. From my understanding, mediation works best if the two parties have come to the decision to divorce together. This is not my situation. He wanted it, I did not.

Make sure you know from a financial stanpoint what your monthly expenses are. This is very important when discussing spousal support and child support. Also, know what you are entitled to from retirement and 401K's to investments, health insurance... Do your homework.

My husband went in with very little expectations of what his responsibilities were going to be to both myself and my children. Both he and his attorney were very ill prepared for this meeting and I felt like it was a waste of time and money. After getting my husbands financial settlement offer I am willing to take my chances in court, I doubt if I can do worse that what he is offering thru mediation.

Good Luck to you. Stay strong you are not alone.

I hope this helps!

Brady2007