Child custody may be one of the biggest issues you and your spouse will have to determine in your divorce. You both want to insure the happiness of your little ones, but you may disagree on how to achieve that goal. Mediation can help you come to an agreement in a civil and peaceful way. The success of the mediation, however, depends largely on the actions you take before the sessions begin. Follow these steps to increase your odds of a positive outcome.

Steps to Take Before Your Child Custody Mediation Session

1. Create a Parenting Plan

Come up with a proposed schedule to regulate how you and your spouse will split time with the kids. Don’t forget to take holidays into account. You can alternate Christmas and Thanksgiving on an annual basis, for instance. Refer to a calendar and draft a written plan so that you have something concrete to bring to the mediation session.

2. Consider What Matters Most

For mediation to succeed, you will have to make some compromises. Neither you nor your ex-spouse will get 100% of what’s asked for. To prepare for this, reflect on what’s most important to you. Maybe you simply can’t imagine missing your children’s birthdays, but you aren’t very excited about Halloween. Make a list of what you are most interested in fighting for.

3. Create Guidelines

Together, you and your spouse can come up with guidelines to facilitate child custody. How will you communicate, via text, email, or phone? Will you set up a joint online calendar to share information about the kids’ events like recitals and parent-teacher conferences? Do you need to notify the other parent if you are planning a trip with the kids, even if it’s nearby? Establishing these guidelines now will pay off in the future, helping you to avoid unnecessary fights.  

When negotiating child custody, you want an experienced mediator who is prepared to diffuse tense situations. Trust The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot in Litchfield County, CT.  With over 20 years of experience, Attorney Jeannine has helped countless couples reach solutions on everything from alimony to child support. Learn about her practice areas on her website. To schedule an appointment, give her a call at (860) 482-9004.