Things to Consider When Choosing a Divorce Mediator in Denver

Uncontested Divorce Mediation

Posted May 12, 2021

Once you have come to the decision that the differences between you and your spouse are irrevocable, and it is time to get a divorce, you will have to decide how you want to go about dissolving the marriage. When a divorce is uncontested, many people find mediation to be the best option as it can save time and money compared to litigation. However, once you decide that Denver divorce mediation is the right option for settling your divorce, it is important that you take some time to find the right mediator to meet your needs. The fact is that your mediator will play a key role in helping you through this complex and difficult time, making it important that you find a mediator that you and your spouse feel comfortable working with. Yet, choosing a mediator can often feel like an overwhelming process. To help get you started, here is a look at 6 things you should consider when choosing a divorce mediator. 

Make Sure That They Specialize in Mediation

When choosing a mediator, it is critical that you choose one who specializes solely in Denver divorce mediation. Some attorneys will primarily handle divorce litigation and will do mediation on the side. However, it is critical that you find someone who does Denver divorce mediation full-time, as there is a completely different set of skills and experience one needs to successfully mediate a divorce. Divorce mediators need to be skilled at conflict resolution and breaching divides, as their ultimate goal is to help couples find a middle ground and reach a mutually beneficial solution. However, attorneys who primarily handle divorce litigation are used to helping their clients win, and they may not have the subtle skills needed to find the solution that best meets your family’s needs. It is then important that you make sure to ask a potential mediator what percent of their work involves divorce mediation.     

Find Out About Their Experience

Due to the pivotal role your mediator will play in ensuring that your divorce goes as smoothly as possible, you will want to find a mediator with the proper experience and qualifications to handle your case. While almost anyone can call themselves a mediator, this does not necessarily mean that they are trained to handle complex divorce negotiations. 

As you begin researching mediators, make sure to ask questions of potential mediators you are considering working with. Find out how long they have been in mediation, how many cases they have handled, and ask if they have handled divorces similar to yours before. You will also want to make sure that they have the proper training, as mediators will often have a certificate in Denver divorce mediation or an advanced degree in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Finding a mediator who has the proper training and experience will be crucial in ensuring negotiations between you are your spouse are successful.  

Do They Draft The Judgment for You?

You will also want to find out if the divorce mediator you are considering working with will be drafting the Judgment for you. Many mediators will handle the paperwork for you, and it is generally recommended that you work with a mediator who will handle document preparation for you and has extensive experience doing so. This is important as you will need professional help in drafting the Judgment, as a poorly drafted judgment document could be difficult to enforce or easy for an attorney to pick apart. Furthermore, there is a lot that needs to be taken into consideration when drafting a Judgment that you may not be aware of, such as what would happen if someone wants to modify custody down-the-road. An experienced mediator will be able to ensure that all of the paperwork is completed properly, preventing potential problems for you later on.   

A Good Divorce Mediator Should Be Compassionate 

The fact is that going through a divorce is often an extremely difficult process no matter how amicable it is. This makes it critical that you find a mediator who is compassionate and will be there to support you during this difficult time. They should be understanding of your needs and be by your side to help you find a solution that will work best for your family. Do not be afraid to consult multiple mediators before making such an important decision. Talk to your top contenders to get a feel for their personality and whether or not you think they would be the right fit to walk you through the divorce process.

Find Out if They Charge A Flat Rate

When researching potential mediators, it is imperative that you find out how they charge for their services. In particular, you will want to ask whether they charge a flat rate or by the hour. Many couples choose Denver divorce mediation due to the fact that it can help to save money compared to a long, drawn-out legal battle. However, if a mediator charges by the hour, charges could quickly rack up without you realizing it, leaving you with a hefty bill. Finding a mediator who offers flat-rate services can help you to better predict your divorce costs and prepare accordingly.   

Your Divorce Mediator Should Be Neutral 

Perhaps most importantly, you will want to ensure that you choose a mediator that is a neutral third party. A good mediator needs to be neutral and not show bias towards either spouse, as they are supposed to be advocates for both parties. This is critical in ensuring that an agreement is reached that is fair for both spouses. Your mediator’s primary goal should be to work with you and your spouse to educate you on your settlement options and help you make well-informed decisions that take both of your best interests into account. 

Contact an Uncontested Divorce Mediator Located in Denver Today

Deciding to choose Denver divorce mediation can help to make the process smoother and more affordable than if you went to court. However, it is critical that you take your time to find a qualified, experienced mediator who can make this time as stress-free as possible for you and your spouse. Contact Split Simple today to learn more about the things you should consider when choosing a divorce mediator in Denver. 

Split Simple

1624 Market Street #202

Denver, CO 80202

720-501-4600