Preparing for your first online divorce mediation session doesn’t have to add additional stress to your life. Your divorce mediation lawyer from California Divorce Mediators is adept at facilitating smooth and effective online conversations in all sorts of situations. You can count on them to bring clarity, professionalism, knowledge, and a sense of calm that moves discussions toward working solutions that benefit everyone in your family.
If you have never attended a virtual or in-person mediation session before, we are here to help. California Divorce Mediators’ family law professionals offer these tips as you prepare for your first inline divorce mediation session with us.
Share Your Questions with a Divorce Mediation Lawyer
We know you may have dozens of questions about divorce, law, mediation, and much more. Write down your questions as they occur to you, and be prepared to share them with us. Call and ask your questions and record the answers you receive for later reference. Common questions mediation clients ask include:
1. How much does mediation cost?
2. Do I still need a divorce lawyer with online divorce mediation?
3. How long do virtual divorce mediation sessions last?
4. How many sessions will I need to attend?
5. Can I schedule virtual mediation sessions around my work schedule?
6. Are online divorce mediation sessions private?
7. Can we handle our entire divorce process virtually through mediation?
8. What documents do I need during online mediation? You may also find answers to your questions by reviewing our mediation process, exploring our FAQ page, and watching this video outlining how we handle online divorce mediation.
Budget and Plan Accordingly
Budget and plan accordingly after you receive the costs for our services. California Divorce Mediators uses flat fee, all-inclusive retainers to help keep your costs low. Our mediators can offer flat fees for specific stages of the mediation process or for the entire process. This flexibility allows you to choose a fee structure that aligns with your unique circumstances and preferences and plan your budget in advance.
Gather Important Documents
You will need several documents as part of the initial intake process. These can include financial records, marital and separate property lists, assets, debts, bank accounts, retirement accounts, investments, insurance, previous court documents, and even medical records.
You should also prepare a list of topics that are important to you for discussion. Don’t rely on your memory during potentially intense talks. Bring your calendar to plan future mediation sessions and other important events.
Choose Your Videoconferencing Platform
Your California Divorce Mediators specialist can help you choose your videoconferencing platform. You may use any digital device you are comfortable with, including laptops, tablets, or desktops. We recommend not using a smartphone due to the smaller screen, which may make seeing all the mediation participants difficult.
Be sure your chosen device and video platform have the latest software updates (operating systems like Windows and videoconferencing software like Zoom, Google Meet, etc.). We will agree ahead of time on the specific videoconferencing platform everyone will use.
Choose the Best Meeting Environment
Your online divorce mediation sessions will be conducted over the Internet, which means you can attend them from anywhere. While we understand that virtual mediation is convenient, a hotel lobby or your desk at work may not be the best environment to discuss your private affairs. We recommend using the most comfortable and private setting possible. Dress comfortably and appropriately, sit in a comfortable chair, ensure adequate lighting, and choose a place free from distractions or loud noises. You may want to use a desk to hold your device with room for writing materials.
Bring the Right Mindset for Online Divorce Mediation
We saved what is perhaps the most critical item of preparation for last: the right mindset. Your online divorce mediation lawyer will facilitate fair and balanced discussions and help you work toward real solutions. You can help by being patient and calm, keeping an open mind, and knowing what’s not negotiable for you. This will assist you and your mediator make the most of the process.
Are you ready to schedule virtual divorce mediation to work out an amicable and affordable divorce agreement? Contact California Divorce Mediators now to learn more and get started!
