Divorce happens. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports that around 75,000 married couples in the state file for divorce each year. Going through a divorce can be extremely hard. It can put a lot of emotional and financial strain on people and families. At the same time, divorce does not have to be a fight. Mediation offers a potential solution.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that emphasizes collaborative problem-solving. A neutral third-party mediator will help the parties to a divorce work through the remaining issues that need to be resolved. Here, our Chicago divorce mediators highlight the key reasons why you should consider mediation for your divorce.
1. Reduce Conflict
One of the core advantages of working with a divorce mediator is that the process is collaborative and not adversarial. Mediation is designed to limit conflict. The parties to divorce mediation are encouraged to work together in a low-conflict setting to find a way to resolve their issues in a mutually-agreeable manner. Mediation is especially effective for divorcing parents and other people who want to preserve relationships.
2. Save Time and Money
It is no secret that divorce litigation can drag on. Going to court for a divorce can be time-consuming and costly. It is not uncommon for divorce litigation to last more than one year. On the other hand, divorce mediation can be a lot faster and a lot more affordable. Indeed, divorce mediation allows many couples to save time and money while reaching a solution.
3. Flexible (Customized to Your Situation)
Divorce mediation is different for every couple. While the process has structure, it is far more flexible than divorce litigation. Some divorce couples work with a mediator together for nearly the entire process. Other divorce couples separate frequently during the proceedings. The mediator can customize the process to best suit your situation.
4. A Confidential Process
Did you know that litigation is part of the public record? As divorce is a highly sensitive and very personal issue, most people want to keep their privacy as much as possible. Mediation is a fully confidential process. The details of what is discussed in your divorce mediation—including the specific terms of any settlement agreement—will not become part of the public record.
5. Fully Voluntary
You may not be sure as to whether or not you and your spouse can work together to solve your issues through divorce mediation. The good news is that there is no real risk to trying the mediation process. It is a voluntary process. The divorce mediator facilitates an agreement—they do not make any final decisions. All parties to a divorce mediation retain the right to leave the process and pursue other legal options.
At Gordon & Perlut, LLC, we have extensive experience with divorce mediation. If you are considering mediation or preparing for the mediation process, our legal team can help. Contact us today at 312-360-0250 for a completely confidential initial consultation. From our legal offices in Chicago and Skokie, we provide divorce mediation services throughout all of Northern Illinois.