Even though your marriage is heading for a divorce, you do not have much animosity toward your soon-to-be ex-spouse. Because the two of you simply grew apart, you probably do not want a knock-down, drag-out divorce battle.
For many, mediation is an attractive alternative to a conventional divorce. If you decide to use mediation to wrap up your marriage, you must choose an effective mediator. Here are three tips for picking the right mediator for your divorce.
1. Scrutinize the mediator’s experience
While all mediators should understand the mediation process, some may lack the experience necessary to mediate your divorce. If you have a vast marital estate, complex financial matters or child custody issues, you probably want to choose a mediator who has a record of mediating similar divorces.
2. Look for problem-solving skills
Thinking outside the box is a critical component of many divorce mediations. Still, to get the most out of your mediation, you likely need a neutral mediator who has good problem-solving skills. If you can find such a mediator, he or she may help you reach a uniquely tailored agreement that improves your post-divorce future.
3. Do not forget about compassion
While competence is certainly important, mediators must have some interpersonal qualities. Rather than simply focusing on the outcome of your divorce, you should consider picking a mediator who is compassionate, caring and thoughtful.
After all, while you must reach consensus on challenging divorce-related matters, you are likely to experience a range of potentially difficult emotions during your divorce mediation.
