Chicago Divorce Mediation

Reaching a Negotiated Illinois Divorce Settlement Without Going to Court

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Lead Attorneys & Managing Partners

Jessica C. Marshall

Managing Partner
15+ years family law
Super Lawyers Best Lawyers

Meet Jessica

Genevieve Binnie

Partner
15+ years family law
Super Lawyers

Meet Genevieve

Kimberly J. Anderson

Founding Partner
20+ years family law
Former Prosecutor Super Lawyer

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Janice L. Boback

Managing Partner
20+ years family law
Super Lawyer

Meet Janice

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 mediation in divorce and is it effective in Chicago?

Divorce mediation is a voluntary process where divorcing couples work with a mediator to negotiate and resolve issues such as property division, child custody, visitation, and support.

How does divorce mediation differ from traditional divorce proceedings?

Unlike traditional divorce proceedings, which often involve litigation and court appearances, divorce mediation is a collaborative process where couples work together to reach mutually acceptable agreements with the help of a mediator.

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?

While divorce mediation can be beneficial for many couples, it may not be suitable for cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or extreme power imbalances. Each situation is unique, and couples should consider their specific circumstances when deciding on mediation.

How long does divorce mediation take?

The duration of divorce mediation varies depending on the complexity of the issues involved and the willingness of the parties to cooperate. Some cases may be resolved in a few sessions, while others may require more time.

What role does the mediator play in the process?

The mediator serves as a neutral facilitator who helps the couple identify issues, explore options, and communicate effectively. The mediator does not make decisions for the couple but instead assists them in reaching agreements that are fair and mutually acceptable.

Do we still need attorneys if we choose divorce mediation?

While attorneys are not required during divorce mediation, it is advisable for each spouse to consult with their own attorney before and during the mediation process to ensure that their rights and interests are protected.

What happens if we cannot reach agreements during mediation?

If the couple cannot reach agreements on certain issues during mediation, they may choose to pursue alternative dispute resolution methods or proceed to litigation in court to resolve the unresolved issues.

Are agreements reached in mediation legally binding?

Yes, agreements reached in divorce mediation are typically legally binding once they are formalized into a written agreement and approved by the court as part of the divorce decree.

How do we find a qualified mediator for our divorce?

Couples can find qualified mediators through referrals from attorneys, family court services, mediation organizations, or state bar associations. It’s important to choose a mediator with experience in family law and divorce mediation who is also accredited or certified in mediation.

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.

Anderson Boback & Marshall are experienced family lawyers with in-depth knowledge of Illinois divorce and family law. We work with you to develop the best plan for your property settlement. Contact us today to speak with an experienced divorce attorney regarding Chicago divorce mediation.

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I really appreciated Laura’s help on my case. She was professional, empathetic, knowledgeable, and very quick to respond. She made an unfortunate situation much more tolerable with her ability to move my case along quickly and easily. Highly recommend.

I’ve been working with Anderson and Boback since 2019 due to the unfortunate complexities of my case. It’s been exhausting and expensive but having this group of powerful attorneys has been pivotal in the success of my case.

Attorney Jessica's exceptional assistance and success in securing a proper visitation agreement and reuniting me with my daughter surpassed my expectations. Her prompt correspondence and attention to detail were remarkable, ensuring efficient communication and leaving no aspect of my case overlooked.

Laura was my assigned Attorney and she was very professional and did an excellent job. Great advice and did everything as quickly and easily as possible. I couldn't of gone through the unfortunate process I had to and got the outcome I did without her. Highly recommend.

Words cannot express the gratitude I have for Jessica Marshall and her team. As a father who was no longer present in the USA, I was facing a monumental task to get access to my daughter in the face of extreme hostility. She made the impossible happen, and I’ll forever be in her debt.

We never go into a marriage thinking I have a great divorce attorney if this doesn’t work out. However, Laura Darby is the attorney you want in your back pocket if you do have to go through a divorce! Laura is extremely knowledgeable, caring, and will advocate for her clients. She will provide realistic, clear, and yet supportive guidance to her clients.

If you’re looking for a smart, reliable divorce attorney, look no further. I was able to collect many years of back support with the assistance of this office. Jessica Marshall really knows what she is doing and I felt that my outcome was fair. You really do get what you pay for.

My experience with Anderson & Boback was nothing short of professional, efficient and caring. My lawyer, Jessica Marshall, provided a strong sense of guidance, reassurance and a human touch during a very difficult and complicated legal process. Highly recommend Jessica and her team.

Jessica is a dedicated, intelligent and a skillful attorney. Her arguments are skillfully articulated. She helped me in getting my divorce finalized in 2018. She then helped in getting the past due child support from my X-spouse and then recently in getting the maintenance alimony payments settled. I would highly recommend their services.

Jessica C. Marshall , partner at Anderson & Bobak is one of the best attorneys I had a pleasure to work with! I wish I had found her sooner in my divorce process. I had a post decree military pension issue and it was resolved quickly, efficiently and effectively. I didn’t even have to go to court or interact with my ex- spouse. The billing was also very straightforward and honest. Highly recommended attorney!