This is my fourth post in my “Understanding Divorce Series.” I have previously discussed the importance of a Motion for Temporary Orders during a Las Vegas divorce case. Today I am going to address how to approach child custody mediation.
Approaching child custody mediation with an open mind
If you divorce involves children then the Court will order you to attend mediation after your first hearing. The mediation will take place at the Clark County Family Court Family Mediation Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Child custody mediation is the process where you and the other party sit down with an impartial third-party and try to resolve issues of child custody. If issues regarding the children can be agreed upon then it quickens the divorce process.
Often times when a situation seems particularly volatile, we may believe that it is not possible to come to an agreement on any issues regarding the children. This is why a mediator is a necessity. A mediator is trained to approach any given situation in a calm and rational manner. This impartial party can help the divorcing spouses hammer out issues that they were unable to work out on their own due to their emotional reactions to one another.
Children are astute individuals. They can sense any tension between their parents. It is much better for them if both parties can come to terms with as little involvement from the court as necessary. It is much less stressful to sit down with a child custody mediator to resolve your differences, than it is to have the court make the decisions. If the court has to decide your child custody issues, at least one party will be unhappy. If you are able to reach decisions regarding your children together with the help of a mediator, then you will save time, money, and stress.
Don’t sign a mediation agreement until your child custody attorney reviews it
You hired an attorney is there to look out for the best interest of you and your family. Lawyers are well versed in legalese and all the trappings of the fine print of a legal document. Anything you sign becomes binding in the eyes of the law. It is easy to get caught up in an emotional state and sign something that you do not really understand. Take the time to have your attorney review any documents drawn up between you and the other party; it will be well worth it.
Don’t allow anyone to pressure you with time limits. If the other party is telling you that the deal will go away if you do not sign it within a certain period of time, it should raise a red flag. Also, when emotions are running high and maybe you just want to be done with the whole thing, it is not the best time to make a decision. Your attorney is there to take emotion out of the equation and look out for your best interests. It takes up a short period of time to have your legal counsel review a document and will cost you far less both emotionally and financially to do so. Please take careful consideration before signing any legal document without it reviewed by a professional.