Dividing Property During Divorce: 5 Tips for an efficient Equitable Distribution Mediation

Equitable Distribution Divorce Mediation

Finding common ground can be problematic during a divorce, but working with a qualified divorce mediator can help smooth out the Equitable Distribution process. One of the main concerns that a divorcing couple has during mediation is Equitable Distribution (ED), or the division of property obtained during the marriage. Learn more about how to efficiently divide property during your divorce with these five tips:

1. Do Your Homework

The mediator should provide you with a list of needed information and documentation for the upcoming session(s). Make sure to come prepared for the mediation session with the right paperwork to help speed up the process. Clients who do their homework spend less time in a session, and therefore less money in connection with the mediation. Doing your homework before a session helps make the Equitable Distribution process efficient and can cut down on the divorce process’s length.

2. Discuss in Advance

Many divorcing couples may struggle with communication, but it is essential to be open to discussion during the mediation process. Before your session, try to discuss how to divide property obtained during the marriage as much as you can with your spouse. This will cut down on time spent with the mediator and make your sessions focused on issues that you can’t agree upon.

3. Determine Your Priorities

Come to mediation sessions with an idea of what you want to keep from the marriage. Identifying your priorities will not only make you better prepared for sessions, but it also helps you separate what issues you can be more flexible on with your spouse. It is important to remember that couples should give-and-take during the divorce mediation process.

4. Schedule Sessions Well

If your workweek is busy, scheduling a Friday afternoon mediation session isn’t the greatest idea. Schedule sessions when you can be both mentally and physically sharp. It is also important to keep in mind that mediation sessions usually last between 2-3 hours. Scheduling one in between other appointments could create stress if the session goes longer than you expected.

5. Know Your Legal Rights

It is helpful to have a general idea of your legal rights before you begin divorce mediation. Consider doing the research from a reliable and objective source or consulting with a lawyer. Do not rely on advice from well-meaning friends and family members who aren’t law specialists. Your situation and circumstances are unique, and what has been true for others may not be applicable in your case.

It is possible to resolve a marriage through divorce mediation amicably. When desiring an efficient Equitable Distribution process, remember these tips to make the process a bit easier.

Plenty of couples have used divorce mediators, like Donita King, who can help couples separate without the need for litigation. Contact Donita King Law Offices today for more information about how divorce mediation can work in your case.

Donita King

Ms. King is a member of the Virginia, Pennsylvania, and D.C. State Bars. She also serves as a University of Richmond School of Law Adjunct Professor of Mediation. She previously served on the Virginia Bar Association Joint ADR Council (2015 Chair), and served for several years on the Governor of Virginia’s Interagency Dispute Resolution Council. Ms. King currently serves as a board member of the Virginia State Bar Disciplinary Board by appointment of the Virginia Supreme Court and has been active with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Women in Business as well. Se habla espanol.

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