If a pair of Minnesota spouses decides to go their separate ways, they must first resolve numerous issues pertaining to property and, if they are parents, child custody and support. Divorce is never easy, but it also does not necessarily have to ruin a family’s life, especially if the spouses in question are willing to compromise and peacefully negotiate a fair settlement. There are several valuable skills that can help facilitate amicable discussion when discussing a settlement agreement.
Attributes of a skilled negotiator
While every divorce is unique according to the needs and ultimate goals of the two spouses involved, there are certain skills that most effective negotiators possess. Flexibility is at the top of the list when it comes to peaceful negotiation. If a spouse refuses to cooperate or compromise, it may be difficult to find common ground upon which to build a solution to a specific problem.
It is also helpful to enter negotiations with a mindset and goal of coming up with solutions that are fair to both sides. If one spouse is thinking of nothing else except “winning,” then achieving a settlement that is fair to both parties may prove challenging. Particularly where child custody negotiations are concerned, keeping the children’s best interests in mind is the key to success.
If negotiations do not lead to agreement
A concerned spouse or parent may have pure intentions when he or she agrees to negotiate a divorce settlement without going to court. However, if the other party refuses to cooperate or is acting with contention, a spouse might determine that litigation is necessary in order to resolve the issues. Either way, it is helpful to seek legal support from an experienced family law attorney before negotiation sessions or court proceedings begin.
