What should you look for in a mediator?

Once you and your spouse decide to get a divorce, you may pursue mediation. When mediation works well, it provides a neutral environment for you and your spouse to discuss your affairs. Because you usually work closely with your mediator, you should carefully interview each candidate.

There are several questions you should ask a mediator.

Ask about education and experience

According to the Huffington Post, your mediation sessions may cover a wide variety of areas. You may discuss a parenting plan in one session and ways to divide your investments during another. Make sure that your mediator has the experience and the knowledge to guide you through all of these areas. Ask potential mediators if they have advanced degrees in areas relevant to the field, such as psychology or law. Do they specialize in dispute resolution? Do they participate in training sessions to keep their skills up-to-date?

Additionally, you should make sure that your mediator has experience mediating divorces. Professionals who do not specialize in this area may not always be able to provide the guidance that you need, especially if you and your spouse are a high-asset couple.

Ask yourself if you trust the mediator

When you first begin interviewing a mediator, pay attention to how you feel. Do you think that the mediator is listening to both you and your spouse, or do you feel that he or she is taking sides? Do you think that this professional will allow you and your spouse to make your own decisions? A good mediator can provide guidance and help keep things peaceful but should make sure that you and your spouse are the ones driving the sessions. Mediation may go more smoothly when you trust the professional and the process that he or she uses.

When you and your spouse both commit yourselves to the mediation process, you can increase your likelihood of reaching a settlement that satisfies you both.