If you chose mediation as a way to reach settlement in your divorce or custody case, you probably already have a basic idea of how it works. You probably chose this method for you and your spouse as a way to work together to make important decisions and solve problems in your divorce or custody case. A mediator acts as the neutral party to guide you along during your time of need, which will hopefully help you land at some type of agreement that will be viable for years to come.
The reason why many people are choosing mediation in our modern times is because mediation is a way to move forward and gain trust within your custody or divorce relationship. For those who have many unanswered questions in their life and issues to face because they are far from the truth, mediation is a way to solve these issues and bring trust to both parties. However, parties must agree to mediation – a mediator cannot decide that for them. This is why there are many steps in mediation, as a way to bring perfect results at the end of your case. Today we will help you understand the stages of mediation and how all of these stages work to bring you the best result.
Stages of Mediation
1: The first stage is the mediator’s opening statement. They will introduce themselves, all parties, as well as the attorneys. This is a way to help the parties understand the goals and rules of mediation and speak to all parties to encourage them to reach an agreement and move forward.
2: This is the time in which the parties will be able to give their opening statements. The parties will discuss what the dispute is about and how they should resolve it, according to their beliefs.
3: This is a time of joint discussion, where the mediator will help the parties work through what was mentioned in the opening statements. Here special issues will be brought up to be addressed.
4: This stage is the private caucuses, where each party can meet with the mediator separately. They may have new ideas about settlement based on their strengths and weaknesses in the case.
5: Joint negotiation, the next stage, helps bring the parties together again to negotiate one-on-one.
6: Lastly, closure occurs. This is the end of the agreement, where most often an agreement is reached. A contract may be signed. However, if there is no agreement reached, the mediator will suggest next steps – meeting again, going to arbitration, or being present at court.
As you can see, there are many steps involved with the mediation process – but it is not a difficult process to grasp. In many cases, you may realize that mediation is best for you. It may give you the best results. If you believe that it is a proper way for you to reach settlement, call us today for more.