How Can Family Law Mediation Help Resolve Issues During My Divorce?

 Posted on July 24, 2020 in Kane

Before you and your spouse are granted a divorce you will need to try and reach an agreement about the division of marital assets, allocation of parenting time, spousal maintenance, and other divorce matters. Resolving these issues can be a very difficult process – especially if you and your spouse do not see eye to eye. If you cannot reach an agreement about these issues on your own, one option that may help is family law mediation. The mediation process has helped countless divorcing spouses settle divorce issues so they can avoid courtroom litigation.  

What Does Divorce Mediation Entail?

Understandably, many spouses struggle to discuss divorce issues without letting emotions get in the way. Having a neutral third party who is trained in conflict resolution present throughout the process can be a huge benefit. During divorce mediation, a divorcing couple meets with a specially trained mediator to discuss and negotiate unresolved divorce issues. The mediator’s job is to facilitate productive conversations so spouses can find solutions that work for both of them.

What Are the Advantages of Mediation?

Family law mediation has a variety of benefits, which makes it a valid alternative to litigation. Mediation is a confidential process that is typically much less stressful and less expensive than resolving divorce issues through the court. It is also less antagonistic. During mediation, the couple is encouraged to work together in a cooperative manner to find solutions to their unresolved issues. This can be especially beneficial for couples with children who will still need to co-parent after the divorce is finalized. Mediation also puts the spouses in control of their divorce settlement. Instead of a judge handing down decisions about spousal maintenance, child custody, and property division, the spouses have the opportunity to design an arrangement that works for both of them. It should be noted that mediation does not work in every divorce case. If you and your spouse are unable to negotiate divorce issues in good faith, there has been a history of domestic violence in your marriage, or you have concerns that your spouse is hiding assets, mediation may not be a viable option.

Contact a St. Charles Divorce Lawyer

Mediation is a method of alternative dispute resolution that may help you and your spouse resolve divorce issues without needing to litigate through the court. To learn more about whether mediation may be the right choice for you, contact MKFM Law today. Call 630-665-7300 to schedule a free initial consultation with our accomplished and dedicated Kane County divorce attorneys.

Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2489