Know what steps you should take to make the most of your upcoming divorce mediation.
If you feel that your marriage to your current spouse is nearing its end, you might be considering your options for as smooth of a divorce in Texas as possible. In that search, you may have heard of something known as mediation. Besides learning as much about divorce mediation, you should also know how to make the most of the process.
Sit down with your mediation coach
Once you and your spouse have agreed to go to mediation, it is a good idea to sit down one-on-one with the mediation coach so you have a solid idea of what you should expect during the process from beginning to end. That way, you can be better prepared, and there is less of a chance of there being unpleasant surprises along the way.
Know that mediation is not a legal competition
Some traditional divorces can easily become legal competitions where spouses quickly and easily become enemies to each other. Mediation is designed to do away with the animosity that often triggers those responses while still making sure both parties leave the table satisfied and feeling as if they received a fair deal.
Consider speaking with a psychologist
While you have your perspective on what went wrong in your marriage, it can help to have a professional opinion. Speak with a psychologist not only to help prepare you emotionally for the mediation proceedings, but to also get a better idea of why your marriage did not work. That way, you have a cohesive understanding of what you need to work on in your life personally and what steps you can take to make your next relationship work better.
Maintain an open mind throughout mediation
If you have heard of divorce mediation, you might have your preconceived notions about the process, just like you can have preconceived notions about divorce. Do yourself a favor and try to have an open mind about how the process will go, even if you have a solid idea about how your spouse will act during mediation. Divorce is something that changes people, and you do not know how the mediator will decide on the case. These two factors can make the situation turn out in a way that you never imagined.
Create a support system
Even if mediation is going well, you are still going through a major shift in your life, one that might require you to reach out to friends and family for emotional support. While you might feel embarrassed about dissolving the marriage between you and your spouse, those closest to you will find out sooner or later, and they might as well find out from you.
If you do not like the idea of getting a traditional divorce in Texas, consider mediation as an alternative. Touch bases with a legal professional to explore your options and understand your rights.