Divorce Mediation in Chicago, IL
If you are considering a divorce or have already been served with divorce papers, it doesn’t mean you must endure a vicious court battle. When you speak with a divorce attorney in Chicago experienced with Chicago divorce mediation, you’ll find it may be possible to reach an amicable settlement that could save you time and avoid expenses associated with going to trial. During mediation, a neutral third-party will help both spouses to develop solutions that they can both agree on to difficult issues currently dividing them.
There are various methods to settle a divorce amicably which include:
- Negotiation,
- Collaboration,
- Mediation, and for matters that cannot be resolved from any of these methods, and
- Litigation.
In a Chicago divorce, mediation is mandated by the court for couples disputing child custody and parental allocation plans. Divorce mediation is also helpful to when seeking to settle financial matters. Many family law attorneys in Chicago provide divorce mediation services to help clients reach a fair divorce settlement, as quickly and cost-efficiently as possible. In fact, Illinois family law courts actually require that couples attempt mediation before their case can be scheduled for litigation in court.
Anderson Boback & Marshall are divorce and family law attorneys with extensive experience in Chicago divorce mediation, either as a neutral mediator or representing our clients during the process to help obtain a fair settlement which protects their rights and interests.
How Does Divorce Mediation Work?
Divorce mediation is considered an alternative dispute resolution process where an impartial or neutral mediator helps guide you and your spouse in settlement efforts – hopefully helping you reach a final agreement. Unlike judges, a mediator has no authority to make decisions for you or your spouse. Their job is to keep you and your spouse’s focus on your needs and interests instead of fault and rights.
When a couple begins divorce mediation, they either choose the mediator in advance or one may be appointed by the court, with the court deciding how to split the costs. Both spouses provide documentation to support their viewpoint regarding disputed issues, while the mediator works with both sides to find a resolution. If both attorneys are present for mediation, the mediator may speak with one spouse and their attorney privately and then the other spouse with their attorney.
We will work with you throughout the entire mediation process helping you to evaluate the pros and cons of each proposed solution.
The goal of the mediator is to reach an agreement between the two parties, therefore it is critically important to work with your attorney to ensure that the proposed solution is truly fair and equitable to you. When spouses reach an agreement during mediation, they can either sign a written agreement or reach an oral agreement which can then be approved by the court. Issues that both parties cannot come to an agreement on may need to be resolved in court.
Divorce mediation can be an effective way for couples to navigate the divorce process with less stress and conflict. However, it’s essential for couples to educate themselves about the process and consider consulting with legal professionals to make informed decisions about their divorce. Here are some frequently asked questions about divorce mediation:
What is divorce mediation?
How does divorce mediation differ from traditional divorce proceedings?
What are the benefits of divorce mediation?
Divorce mediation offers several benefits, including:
- Cost-effectiveness compared to litigation
- Greater control and autonomy over the outcome
- Confidentiality and privacy
- Reduced conflict and improved communication between spouses
- Faster resolution of issues
Is divorce mediation suitable for all couples?
How long does divorce mediation take?
What role does the mediator play in the process?
Do we still need attorneys if we choose divorce mediation?
What happens if we cannot reach agreements during mediation?
Are agreements reached in mediation legally binding?
How do we find a qualified mediator for our divorce?
Benefits of Divorce Mediation
There are many benefits to resolving your differences through the divorce mediation process. Mediation can often save time and money by leading to a timely resolution and avoiding the costs associated with litigation. In addition, the conciliatory mediation process also reduces the stress and hostility caused by a contentious trial. Divorce mediation is usually less adversarial than battling issues in court and is, therefore, less stressful. Mediation provides a means to reach an agreement on all issues quicker than litigating in court and is, therefore, less costly. Additionally, both parties are usually more satisfied with the agreements since they both had input to the resolution.
For parents, the process lays the foundation for cooperation in making important parenting decisions for their beloved children. If mediation is right for you, our lawyers develop a strategy for negotiating the best settlement possible.
Anderson Boback & Marshall – Providing Chicago Divorce Mediation Services
Chicago Divorce and Family Lawyers that Know When to Settle or When to Fight!
At Anderson Boback & Marshall, we provide divorce mediation services both as neutral mediators and as advocates for our client. Whether providing mediation, litigation or collaborative services, we offer skillful legal representation and negotiation throughout the divorce process. We are experienced in the courtroom, fighting for your rights and litigation when required. Make sure that you have a family law attorney protecting your rights and working with you to obtain the divorce settlement that you deserve.
Experienced family lawyers know when to settle and when to fight. That’s why we always recommended consulting with an experienced family lawyer before you choose your divorce strategy. It can be very disappointing and frustrating to spend time and money pursuing mediation only to be left without a settlement and an expensive trial to go through.
Get in touch with us for a consultation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action for your divorce. It could be one of the best investments you will ever make regarding your future.
