Divorce Mediation in Chicago – What are the Pros and Cons When it Comes to Mediation in a Chicago Divorce Case?
In the midst of perhaps confusing information, or perhaps a large amount of misinformation, about the Chicago divorce process online and “through the grapevine,” it can be difficult for a person going through the Chicago divorce process to know exactly what they may be facing when they initiate the dissolution of marriage process (or they are served with divorce papers). Indeed, with “word of mouth” advice from friends and family, Hollywood divorce stories played out on T.V., and a confusing puzzle of laws governing the Chicago divorce process, a person seeking a divorce in Chicago may not know all of their rights and options up-front. One of the things that a person going through the Chicago divorce process for the first time may not know is that not all divorces are finalized via the divorce litigation and trial process, and some Chicago divorce cases may be resolved through a potentially quicker, more cost-effective route. This is called divorce mediation.
But what is divorce mediation in the context of a Chicago divorce case, and what are the pros and cons when it comes to Chicago divorce mediation versus litigating a Chicago divorce case in court? To help Chicago individuals and couples going through the divorce process better understand divorce mediation, we answer those questions here.
What is Divorce Mediation?
It is important for divorcing individuals and couples in Chicago to know the basics of divorce mediation. In short, divorce mediation is a process by which the parties to a divorce can resolve their divorce case outside of court through negotiations. Mediation negotiations are facilitated by a mediator, who is typically a retired judge or an attorney that is experienced in the case subject matter. Mediation is a voluntary process, and it is non-binding. If the parties are able to reach an agreement on key terms of the divorce during the mediation process, they can formalize their agreement in a written agreement.
Pros and Cons of Divorce Mediation
There are a number of positives when it comes to divorce mediation. Importantly, divorce mediation may be less costly and less lengthy than divorce litigation. Secondly, divorce mediation is private and confidential, unlike the public proceedings in court in divorce litigation. Thirdly, divorce mediation may afford the parties more control over the outcome of the case. Finally, divorce mediation may be less confrontational and heated, as the parties are coming to the table willingly to resolve the case.
On the other hand, divorce mediation may not be suitable for some Chicago divorce cases. Since mediation is not mandatory, and is non-binding, the parties must be willing to engage in the mediation in good faith, and must be willing to cooperate with the mediator and with the process. Otherwise it is back to the drawing board, and likely divorce litigation.
Legal Help with Your Chicago Divorce – Chicago Divorce Lawyer
If you are in the Chicago area and you need assistance with your Chicago divorce, contact the experienced Chicago divorce lawyers at Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC. Contact Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC and speak to an experienced Chicago divorce lawyer about your case now.
