Divorce mediation can be very beneficial to separating couples, and this process could allow you to avoid a wide variety of expensive and time-consuming legal problems down the road. That being said, many people don’t know how mediation works and what the timeline is going to be for their separation. While every case is slightly different, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take before a resolution is reached. The team from Divorce Options San Diego—professionals who are transforming the divorce process with expert divorce mediation San Diego couples rely on for customized divorce solutions—offer a brief breakdown of the typical timeline.
The Initial Appointment
Once you’ve decided mediation is the best option, you’ll need to set a date for your initial appointment. The mediator will tell you and your spouse exactly what information needs to be gathered and shared, which includes important financial information such as shared assets, shared bank accounts, debts, personal accounts, and insurance policies.
Follow-Up Appointments
After you’ve gathered that information, you can then schedule the follow-up appointments where you’ll share the data, make requests, and hear your spouse’s concerns (as communicated to you by the mediator). Your spouse won’t be present during your appointments, so you won’t be negotiating directly with him or her. The mediator’s job is to make sure each appointment is productive so you can all work together to come up with a fair resolution.
Reaching an Agreement
While some separating couples are able to reach an agreement within just a few weeks, others must continue to work with a mediator for three months or longer. At the very least, you can expect the mediation process to take at least a month or two. Even if you reach an agreement right away, filing the proper paperwork and legally separating your assets can be time-consuming. Each mediation session will most likely last for two to four hours, and you should expect to have at least three or four of those appointments.
Factors that Can Impact the Timeline
While mediation can greatly speed up the divorce process, there are some factors that could delay the divorce. There might be some delays if you have quite a few variables to discuss during your mediation sessions. Issues such as parenting plans and the separation of high-value shared assets can be very complex.
Speeding Up the Mediation Process
The most effective way to speed up the mediation process is to be as flexible as possible. Postponing your mediation appointments and squabbling over minor possessions could bring your divorce to a grinding halt. You must also be absolutely sure you’re completely honest when you disclose all your financial information. The negotiations could last for months on end if either party is dishonest or unwilling to compromise.
All the practical, legal, financial, and psychological aspects of fair, respectful divorce agreements can be managed by Divorce Options San Diego’s experienced, trustworthy divorce mediators. San Diego couples can rely on our comprehensive process, which is so thorough there won’t be a need for attorneys. To learn how we can help you with every facet of your divorce, call us today at (858) 281-2628.
