Preparing for Mediation

You will need to bring three things with you to your mediation session to improve your chances of successfully reaching an agreement: Information, an Open-Mind, and Time.

At the center of every mediation is the exchange of information between parties. If you are involved in a domestic mediation and the splitting of assets, try to gather and bring with you as much information as possible regarding the value of each of the assets in question and when it was acquired. This includes homes, cars, investments, and retirement accounts. 

You can bring an attorney with you to your mediation session or you can come alone.  The choice is yours and should be based on which option makes you feel the most comfortable.

Unlike court proceedings, mediation is not a win-lose process. At its best, mediation delivers win-win outcomes, but getting there requires compromise. And compromise requires a willingness to hear and consider points of view different from your own and solutions which may seem creative. Be ready to hear, not just listen.

Some mediations are simpler than others and wrap up within a matter of hours. Others can last a full day – or more. You should block off a full day for your mediation session so that you aren’t watching the clock all day and can focus instead on resolving the issues at hand.

Traditionally, mediation sessions are conducted face-to-face.  Because of ongoing COVID-related issues, your mediation session may be conducted using Zoom.