Gearing Up for Divorce Mediation? Here are 3 Things to Keep in Mind at the Negotiating Table at Your Chicago Divorce Mediation
Mediation is a popular form of dispute resolution in Chicago divorce cases. Divorce mediation can offer divorcing couples a more private, cost-effective, and often less emotionally-charged alternative to courtroom litigation. In cities like Chicago and across the country, more people are choosing mediation to resolve their divorce disputes and reach a fair settlement without having a judge make decisions for them. But even though mediation is less formal than trial, it is important for divorcing individuals in Chicago to keep in mind that it is still a legal process with real consequences. As such, individuals in Chicago who are going to mediation in their divorce case should know some of the basics of the mediation process. To help individuals in Chicago who are facing mediation in their divorce case, we discuss three things to keep in mind if you are mediating your divorce case in Chicago, and where to turn for legal help with your case.
#1. Know Your Financial Information
The first thing that soon-to-be divorced individuals in Chicago should do to best prepare for their divorce mediation is to know their financial information like the back of their hand. One of the main goals of divorce mediation is to divide assets and debts in a fair and equitable way. To do that effectively, both parties need a clear picture of finances of the marriage. That includes income statements, tax returns, bank account balances, retirement accounts, property valuations, credit card or loan statements, and any other financial information that may be relevant to the division of assets and debts. In sum, preparing for your mediation by knowing your finances is key.
#2. Keep an Open Mind
One of the things that can really stall a mediation, or completely put a wrench in negotiations, is when a couple or an individual is unable to keep an open mind and think creatively in the divorce mediation process. Coming into mediation with a “hard line” position may limit the ability to come to an agreement. It is important for those in Chicago who are going to divorce mediation to understand that if they do not reach an agreement at divorce mediation, they will have to go back in front of a judge who will make decisions about the important issues in the divorce, instead of the parties themselves.
#3. Consider Working with an Experienced Chicago Divorce Lawyer
One of the best resources a soon-to-be divorced individual has at divorce mediation is their Chicago divorce lawyer. Being represented at divorce mediation can significantly increase your chances of ending up with a favorable result and protecting your rights under Illinois laws. In addition, your Chicago divorce lawyer can help finalize everything that needs to be wrapped up and presented to the court, if you are able to get to “yes” at your Chicago divorce mediation.
Finding a Lawyer in Chicago – Chicago Divorce Lawyer
If you are in the Chicago area and you need legal help with your Chicago divorce case, contact the experienced Chicago divorce lawyers at the law firm Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC. Contact Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC and speak to a lawyer about your case now.
