Mediation Can Reduce the Stress of Divorce

When a marriage ends, it often ends badly. Anger, resentment, and bitterness between divorcing spouses can make the process extremely stressful and difficult. It may even be impossible for some couples to sit in the same room together due to the powerful emotions involved. Many others, however, are able to peacefully work together as they navigate the necessary steps toward completing the divorce. For these situations, divorce mediation may fit the couple’s needs perfectly.

What is Mediation?

Mediation in divorce allows both parties the opportunity to meet with a neutral third party, or mediator, and work out a divorce agreement to be submitted for approval by the court. By reaching an agreement, the couple may be able to avoid a drawn-out and stressful litigation process. In addition, each party is able to directly contribute to the drafting of the divorce agreement, something that may be less predictable when left to the court. Virtually all issues that could be contentiously argued in the courtroom are able to be addressed more comfortably in mediation including division of property, spousal maintenance and support, as well as child support, custody, and visitation.

Why Choose Mediation?

Avoiding litigation in the divorce process can offer a great deal of benefit to both parties. Most importantly, mediation relies on the ability of the divorcing spouses to cooperate, compromise, and find workable solutions while addressing the concerns of all affected by the divorce. This often helps lay a foundation of amicability as they move into the post-divorce stage.  Additionally, the couple may find a great deal more privacy and scheduling flexibility with mediation than by relying on litigation. Courtroom proceedings are strictly scheduled, become public record, and can be extremely expensive. Conversely, mediation offers the freedom to work within the family’s schedule, including evening and weekend meetings, and the entire mediation process is confidential. Resolving issues through a mediator can also significantly reduce the financial burden as mediation costs are far less than those of litigation.

Can Mediation Benefit Children?

High-tension courtroom proceedings can take a significant emotional toll, especially when children are involved. In addition to reduced stress, children also can learn a great deal about resolving differences when they see their parents amicably settling their own disagreements as reasonably as possible. Mediation also allows for each situation to be totally unique by customizing a divorce agreement specifically designed for the complexities of each particular case. When both parents are intimately involved with the resolution process, co-parenting can be much more cooperative and provide children with stability for many years after the divorce.

Who Should You Call?

While the dissolution of a marriage may seem like a fairly straightforward undertaking, there are many issues to consider.  If you are considering divorce mediation in Illinois, or you are looking to modify a previously mediated divorce agreement, contact an experienced DuPage County divorce attorney. We can reduce the stress of your divorce, and will be at your side through mediation and, if necessary, help you litigate your case.