Mediation as a means of conflict resolution can prove difficult for individuals who operate from a creative mind set. These individuals make decisions based on what is important to the couple rather than what the law stipulates. When selecting a mediator, it is important to note these important distinguishing features about how you make decisions:
- What are the principles that you base your decisions on? Is it the best-interests of the family and/your children?
- Do you bring a creative problem solving approach to the table?
- Are there unique features about your mediation? Are you part of a same-sex couple?
- What are the principles you base your marriage on? Do these same principles apply in the resolution of the dispute before you now, as a couple?
- Have you learned anything about dispute resolution you would like to bring to the table?
- Has your mediator described how he or she builds a mediation process? Does this process match your needs as a couple?
- What is the best means to answer your legal questions?
- Do you wish to go separately to your respective lawyers so you can get more attention focused on your specific questions? or
- Is it better to bring the lawyers in the room so dispute do not arise later.
- Speak up immediately if you believe that the process designed for you is not working. If it is working, say that too.