Mediation experiences?

[simplemama32]

Trying to decide between attempting mediation or going straight to a lawyer. If you went through mediation, was it a good experience? What should I expect? Any other tips?

[JaneS]

I did not have a good experience.

I wished we did and I tried my hardest to get us to yes. But STBX dug in his heels and didn't abide by our agreements. Yet he still expected everything to go his way and wouldn't budge. So he could have technical "half time" with DS, he wanted to have 2 days during week plus 6 weekend days a month and I would have 2 weekend days per month. He literally wouldn't budge when I suggested splitting wkends equally and gave him his 2 week days, more time than he has ever had with DS. Yeah, that's really fair and respectful. When I have been the primary caregiver since birth.

I have heard and read that many couples do reach agreement by compromising and working together but since that was impossible for us, it didn't work. That is the real test I think, if both parties are willing to compromise and work together.

There was nothing that was holding him accountable that was ultimately the problem with mediation I think.

[JaneS]

And this checklist is very helpful
http://www.massachusetts-divorce.com...-checklist.htm