4 Tips for Divorce Mediation for Women with Children

The outcome of your divorce has a direct impact on your life. Your life affects the way your children live. This makes the outcome of the divorce settlement crucially important. You must fully understand divorce mediation before you head in for the first session. Consider these tips to help you prepare.

#1: Know the Points that Pertain to Your Case

The best thing you can do before your first session is to find out what points your divorce agreement must address. Each divorce case is different. Typically, you need to divide assets and debts. You need to determine if spousal support is appropriate. The settlement must address child support and child custody if your children are still minors. As you go through each of these mediation points, find out what laws pertain to your case. You can use this information as you negotiate with your ex.

#2: Make Lists as A Guideline

Make lists of what points you plan to stick to your guns about and those that you will negotiate on. Remember that negotiations are part of mediation. This means you can’t have everything your way unless your ex agrees to what you want. The lists you make prior to the session serve as a guide during the process. You can refer to these lists instead of flying by the seat of your pants. As your ex makes an offer or counteroffer, check your list to see what you can go back with.

#3: Stay Calm During the Session

Your ex might try to work your nerves during the mediation session. Don’t let him. Staying calm means that you aren’t giving him any power over you during the process. It also makes it easier to stay on task and try to get the issues resolved. You can always take a few minutes to yourself or even end the session if you need. Just remember that these tactics might delay the end of the divorce.

#4: Think About the Future

It is all too easy to think about how a settlement offer will affect you right now and forget about the future. Think about how a specific offer will impact your future. You will have to count on only your income, so you probably don’t want assets that have a high upkeep cost. You need to be sure you have what you need to care for your children, so don’t be afraid to bypass settlements that won’t allow you to do this.

Excellent

Brown Family Law

Based on 960 reviews

See all reviews

Mack

I would give them 10 stars if I could. Clay was professional and super organized. He took the time to explain everything. I would highly recommend him for any family law needed. Melanie was a godsend. She not only kept me continually informed of the progress, she sent texts of encouragement and support throughout the entire process. I would give her 100 stars for going above and beyond to make this experience less stressful. Her encouragement and genuine caring were comforting and calming. The entire staff at Brown Law are on your side and if you are lucky enough to get Clay and Melanie on your team you will not be disappointed. Thanks! Mack M.

Response from the owner:Wow, thank you so much. Melanie is great. Glad she helped you so well.

Alex Rogers

Nathaniel was an incredible partner throughout the divorce process. He was organized, responsive and respectful of my wishes while simultaneously giving me guidance and advice. I would recommend him to anyone.

Christie Cisneros

I couldn’t have made it through my divorce without Clay and his team! I am forever thankful for the hours and time spent with me to help navigate an extremely difficult time in life. They’re reliable, knowledgeable, and know how to get things moving in an efficient manner. Nothing but good to say here!!

Halie Bates

Working with Daniel Young at Brown Family Law was a truly positive experience during one of the most difficult times of my life. From the start, Daniel was knowledgeable, compassionate, and incredibly responsive.
If you need a family law attorney who combines expertise with empathy, I cannot recommend Daniel Young enough. He is a true advocate and a credit to Brown Family Law.

Jessica Lance

Nathaniel and Carren have been absolutely incredible to work with. They kept me informed and in the loop throughout each step of the process. They always answered every question I had in a very quick and timely manner. I could not recommend them more.

Amy Christensen

This 5-star review is for Nathaniel Garrabrandt at Brown Family Law. Nathaniel was just what we needed. He helped guide us with a level of professionalism, efficiency, and genuine care that made a real difference during a challenging time. He is always thoughtful and respectful, and he never makes you feel like just another case. His communication was clear (with regular check-ins), his advice was solid and uncomplicated, and I always felt that he had his client's best interest at heart as he made suggestions. I’m grateful to have had such a capable and compassionate attorney to work with. You hope you never need these kind of services, but when you do, you want the best... and someone with high integrity. Nathaniel truly deserves all 5 of these stars, in every way.

Kenzie Murphy

Russell Yauney was my attorney at Brown Family Law. Throughout the process, Russell and his paralegal Conor, were extremely helpful and patient. They were highly responsive, thorough, and most importantly: did not make me feel insignificant or embarrassed for asking clarifying questions. Russell made himself available and whenever he wasn't, Conor was. The Friday Phone Calls were reliable and I knew I could expect an update each week. The firm's texting abilities also made it easy to send a quick question/concern if I ever needed it. Russell was a fantastic attorney and guide to have throughout my situation. I highly recommend this firm.