After endless talks and arguments, you can’t take it anymore. Both of you have decided that divorce is the solution and there’s no other way. You can’t live another minute with each other anymore. So, one of you walks out of the house. So, now is the time to think of your checklists for your decision. One of the first things you should do is to contact a legal counsel. Having a trusted and sharp legal counsel is essential. Since it is a legal matter, it is important to actively participate in whatever actions your lawyer is doing and at the same time consult every matter you are about to take.

If you were the one who filed first then you are the petitioner and your other half is the respondent. If both of you have decided to undergo mediated separation, then you have to hire a divorce mediator to take care of the whole process. This is when the couple hires a mediator for both of them and mediate on things to be settled. Mediated divorce can be relatively cheaper compared to other kinds of process where both of you need to hire a lawyer. If mediated divorce is applicable for both of you then there is no reason why not to go for this.

Here is the checklist for hiring a mediator. The most significant in hiring is his or her understanding and comprehension of the legalities of the laws. The mediator should be neutral- he or she should not take sides and must have balanced opinions on what is best and beneficial for both parties. Another factor to consider in choosing a divorce mediator is the level of your comfort when you are dealing with him or her. You have to consider the fact you will be talking very personal issues and matters with your mediator so better hire one you can relate and talk with.

Another plus factor to add on your checklist for mediators is to look for one with additional degrees and studies. For example, hiring one with a child psychology sub-specialty or with a master’s degree on property and realty law. Another one is to ask around about this kind of matter especially from people who have been through legal separation or the same situation as yours. Don’t hesitate to ask the mediator for particular issues such as his or her fees and work accomplishments. You can ask if he/she had a similar case like yours and what was the outcome of it.

Never forget to include in your mental checklist for divorce mediator to ask for his or her references. What your going through is already messy and traumatic so keeping your separation as simple as possible is an important thing that you must work on. It’s a best idea to have a simple divorce. It is an uncontested procedure, this means there is mutual agreement from both party to be separated. There will be relatively less collateral damage when both of you decide to have simple divorce. It is always complicated and emotionally heavy and challenging. The best idea is to keep the process as uncomplicated, straightforward, and fast, as much as possible.