3 Ways a Mediator Can Help You with Your Co-Parenting Plan
Are you getting ready to discuss a co-parenting plan with your ex-spouse? In many cases, the assistance of a mediator can help your entire family reach the best resolution. Mediators protect the interests of each family member and provide insight throughout the mediation process. Here are a few ways a dedicated mediation expert may be able to help you and your family as you work through co-parenting challenges.
1. A mediator will identify and address potential disputes ahead of time.
While you may already have a co-parenting plan in mind, it will be helpful to review it with a mediator who’s familiar with the potential questions and concerns that come about through mediation. Often co-parenting requires compromise, and a good mediator will help you decide how best to handle the details of your situation.
2. A mediator can help organize responsibilities, schedules and special issues.
Co-parenting plans incorporate lots of details which can be difficult to track. Your mediator already has the experience in working through many situations like yours. He or she knows where you and your ex-spouse may need to have further discussion, where responsibilities need to be reviewed, and how to balance conflicting schedules and special accommodations. You will be able to discuss all important details, such as pick-up and drop-off locations, visitation schedules, and medical care options for your children throughout the process of mediation.
3. A mediator will moderate the discussion and encourage all parties to stay on track for the best interest of the children involved.
Your mediator won’t make decisions for you, as may be the case when working with a judge. He or she has received special training to provide constructive guidance and practical support to you and your ex-spouse. Compromise may feel difficult to reach at times, and mediators understand this. A mediator will help you discuss all the available options, staying focused on the end goal: a positive, healthy resolution for all involved, especially for your children.
In some states, mediation is required in order to reach a legal co-parenting agreement. Other states allow for mediation to be a voluntary step in the process. After speaking with your family attorney, make a decision about whether or not you should seek the assistance of a mediator as you plan for the next best steps for your entire family.
If you’re a Florida resident and do not yet have a family lawyer to assist you with your plans for the future, please reach out to us here at Wagstaff Law Offices. We are ready to help. Call us at 727-584-8182 for a consultation.