Chicago Divorce Mediation Lawyer
When you divorce, you’re bound to have disagreements. However, court is not your only option. If you’re looking to avoid litigation, mediation may be a good alternative. In mediation, you use a trained third party called a mediator to discuss your situation and move toward a resolution.
Mediation can help move your divorce along and finalize everything quicker. Consult with a Chicago divorce mediation lawyer from Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC to get the best outcome possible.
What is Mediation?
Mediation involves working with a third party to reach an agreement on various issues in a divorce that you and your spouse cannot agree on. Agreement is needed on various issues in order to finalize your divorce, such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.
Mediators don’t make decisions or offer legal advice. Instead, they act as facilitators to move the process along and help spouses figure out what’s best for their situation. When spouses reach agreement, the mediator will typically draft a divorce settlement agreement and file it with the court.
Lawyers don’t usually participate in the mediation process, although they can in some cases. They tend to create tension, which is why they’re not allowed, although you can certainly consult with one before and after the mediation session. Also, if your spouse brings a lawyer, you should bring one as well, just to keep the playing field equal.
Pros and Cons of Mediation
If your divorce is contested, you should try mediation. It makes the rest of your divorce easier. Mediation is better than litigation in the following ways:
- Cost. Mediation is significantly cheaper than going to court.
- Time. Mediation may only require a few sessions, resolving your matter quickly.
- Settlement. Mediation usually (but not always) results in some sort of settlement.
- Freedom. You and your spouse have the freedom to control the outcome and come up with a unique resolution that fits your needs.
- Communication. You and your spouse learn how to communicate better, which can make the rest of the process easier.
- Confidentiality. What happens in your mediation session is known only by those who attend it. It’s not made public knowledge, unlike a court case.
However, mediation also comes with some downsides, such as:
- No guarantees. Mediation may not result in a settlement, which means a waste of time and money.
- One party may stall the process. Mediation will not be helpful if one party is not willing to compromise or negotiate. Everyone needs to make an effort.
- It requires full disclosure. If your spouse has a history of lying or being untrustworthy, then mediation probably won’t work.
Contact Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC Today
Mediation can help move a divorce along and possibly turn a contested divorce into an uncontested one. However, it’s not right for everyone, so be aware.
The team at Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC can help you prepare for your mediation. Get the best outcome possible. Contact a Chicago divorce mediation attorney today by filling out the online form or calling (312) 863-2800.
