If you are wondering about how divorce mediation fits into an uncontested divorce in Illinois, you’re not the only one. If you are interested in a fast and affordable uncontested divorce in Lake County, then divorce mediation might be in your future . . . or it might not be necessary at all.
What is divorce mediation?
Divorce mediation is a process used to help people reach an agreement so that they can get an uncontested divorce in Illinois.
What is a mediator?
According to Illinois’ Uniform Mediation Act, a mediator is “an individual who conducts a mediation.”
That’s a pretty funny definition. Basically, it means that a mediation doesn’t need any qualifications at all.
Saying a “mediator” is someone who “conducts a mediation” is kind of like saying anyone who cuts a head open is a brain surgeon.
Even thought anyone can be a mediator, it makes the most sense to use a mediator who is also a practicing divorce lawyer in Illinois. That’s because divorce lawyers know the law, and understand what type of problems happen after people are divorced.
A mediator acts as a neutral – meaning a mediator does not take sides. That’s a lot different than a lawyer, because lawyers take sides and advocate for clients.
Is mediation right for us?
Mediation isn’t for everyone.
In contrast, it is only for people who actually want to mediate in good faith. If you and your spouse really want to make a good-faith effort to work it out, then divorce mediation has potential to yield great results for you.
If you want a fast and affordable uncontested divorce in Lake County, Illinois, then mediation might be able to help.
What does a mediator do?
A mediator helps people reach an agreement on the terms of a divorce.
If you want an uncontested divorce because it is affordable and cheap – but you can’t quite get to an agreement on your own – then divorce mediation might work for you.
As a divorce mediator in Lake County, I listen to people’s goals and help them come up with a mutually-agreeable solution.
Since I’m also a practicing divorce lawyer in Illinois, I can help people come up with creative and practical solutions that they might not have otherwise considered.
How long does mediation take
In theory, mediation could take an unlimited amount of time. But I don’t think it should.
The fact is that if you and your spouse truly want to reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce in Illinois, then your mediation should be relatively quick.
Let me put it like this . . . you should Keep it Simple, Spouses.
Mediating forever just wastes time and money. A lot of terrible mediators like to make mediation take months, or maybe even a year, and might have a dozen or more meetings. I think those losers needed to find something better to do, and stop ripping people off.
That’s why most mediations I handle end after 3 one-hour sessions. Sometimes more sessions are needed if there are special circumstances.
What does mediation cost?
We offer divorce mediation for a flat fee.
That meas we offer a flat fee for a mediation program of 3 one-hour sessions for one flat fee. The flat fee depends upon the complexity of your case. So after a short phone call, we can quote you a flat fee.
If you need more than 3 sessions, those can be added on for an additional fee. The cost is easy to understand.