Should I Try to Settle My Illinois Divorce through Mediation?

 Posted on December 28, 2023 in Divorce

People are unique and cannot fit into one uniform mold. It is a simple fact of life that remains true as people grow up and get married, too. Every married couple will have its own unique dynamics. This uniqueness also applies to divorce. Since every marriage is unique, it would not be possible to find one method that could work for every couple that wants to end their marriage. Some couples can still appreciate each other and recognize the other person’s contributions and qualities. Some might prefer not to interact with their spouse but can manage to do so respectfully for the sake of any children they may have. Other couples might split acrimoniously. Because of that, there are also various options available for ending marriage that could work for different couples and their circumstances. If you and your spouse wish to end your marriage but you still appreciate each other and recognize each other’s needs, you should speak with a Kane County, IL divorce attorney to see whether mediation could be a good fit.

How Does Mediation Work?

When a couple decides to try mediation to settle their divorce, the process will need to end with a settlement covering all the issues it would need to if the divorce was handled in court, but the structure is different. The mediator goes back and forth between both spouses, who are sitting in separate rooms throughout. The mediator passes questions, responses, and proposals between both rooms. As a neutral party, the mediator can identify issues that require resolution and then suggest potential compromises that might be acceptable to both.

People who can resolve their divorce through mediation generally choose to do so because of several advantages that this method offers, including:

• Financial: Mediation typically settles a divorce for a fraction of the amount it would cost when handled through the court.

• Time: Divorce proceedings in court can take a very long time to resolve. Court processes include many more regulations and procedures than mediation, and if the couple is willing to compromise and reach an agreement through mediation, the settlement can be drawn up much quicker.

• Privacy: Cases brought to family court are generally open to the public while mediation takes place in two separate, closed rooms. For people who need to discuss private, intimate matters,  the privacy that mediation offers might be an attractive reason to consider it.
  
  

If the couple manages to agree on all the aspects of how their divorce will affect their lives - including their family, finances, property, and other assets - they will need to file dissolution of marriage forms with the court, making sure to fill out specific forms depending on whether or not they have children.

Contact a Geneva, IL Family Law Attorney

Mediation does not suit every couple seeking a divorce, but if you and your spouse can agree on important life decisions without the court’s involvement, this might be a good way for you to finalize your divorce quickly and be able to move on with your new life. An experienced Kane County, IL divorce lawyer can help guide you through this process. Call The Law Offices of Douglas B. Warlick & Associates at 630-232-9700 and together, we can figure out the best path forward for you.