Naples Child Custody Lawyer Offers 8 Tips to Prepare for Mediation
Child custody disputes can quickly lead to discord between divorcing parents. If you cannot agree on a custody or time-sharing arrangement, a mediator can analyze the situation neutrally and make recommendations in the child’s best interests, as the First Judicial Court of Florida explains.
If you are considering divorce in Florida, contact the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, PA. Mr. Raheb is a child custody attorney in Naples who can help you avoid making mistakes that compromise your personal and financial interests.
Call 866-949-0888 to schedule a free, obligation-free consultation. You can also visit the USAttorneys website to learn more about divorce laws in Florida.
Here are eight tips to prepare you for child custody mediation:
- Be Realistic
According to Florida Statutes, you must be realistic about what can and cannot work regarding obligations such as your job and school. You and your ex must share duties and allow flexibility for changes and unexpected circumstances.
- Be Fair
Kids are not “yours” or “mine;” they are “ours.” Mediators take note of these words. Be fair, and if this is difficult, then refer to the kids by name and make a point of acknowledging your ex as a parent.
- Be Flexible
Flexibility is important when negotiating child custody issues. While you must have firm, well-planned ideas about a possible schedule, you should be willing to listen to and consider other suggestions.
- Be Prepared
If certain holidays, events or other factors are important to you, then you need to prepare for them. If you want the kids every Labor Day, for example, then you should be assertive and speak up.
- Be Respectful
While you may have strong views about your spouse, respect is important. He or she is the other parent, and whether you are right or not does not really matter. Being disrespectful will not help your cause.
- Be Sympathetic toward Your Children
As the parent, you understand your kids best. You need to base your decisions on what they are able to handle and what will work in their best interests. Consider age, personality and personal needs.
- Be Focused
Mediation is not the time for bills, mortgage, child support and other divorce issues. It is about the children. Focus on creating the best custody arrangement and only discuss related topics.
- Be Firm
The final agreement may not be what you want, and you should never agree if it makes you unhappy. The mediator only makes recommendations, so do not give up if your spouse has unrealistic demands that are not in the child’s best interests.
If you are facing a custody dispute in Florida, contact the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, PA. Mr. Raheb is a Naples child custody lawyer who can answer your questions related to child custody, alimony, asset division and prenuptial agreements. Call 866-949-0888 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
