How Do I Prepare for My Divorce Mediation?

 Posted on June 05, 2024 in Mediation

Preparing for your divorce mediation often seems like an overwhelming process. In order to ensure the most successful mediation meeting possible, you will need to meet with your lawyer ahead of time, collect important documentation related to your divorce, and think about the solutions you wish to reach during your mediation meeting. An experienced Illinois attorney who also works as a mediator is the right choice for helping you during this process.

What to Expect at Divorce Mediation

Knowing what to expect at your first divorce mediation meeting can help to alleviate some of the stress associated with your divorce proceedings. Under the Illinois Uniform Mediation Act, meditation is the process in which a designated mediator helps parties reach an agreement regarding their dispute.

When it comes to divorce, mediation aims to settle the most important decisions that you and your spouse need to make. These decisions include ones about child support, supposal support, and property division.

At your mediation, the mediator will help you and your soon-to-be-ex work to come to decisions amicably and avoid contentious arguments or unproductive conversations. Your mediator will also help you work through points that you and your spouse feel are non-negotiable, guiding you to both reach an agreeable outcome.

Tips for Preparing for Divorce Mediation

Preparing for your divorce mediation is essential, as when you show up to your mediation meeting organized and ready to get started, you can save yourself stress and time. The following tips can help you prepare for your divorce mediation:

• Review your assets and bring a list of items to mediation, such as vehicles, property, and bank accounts in your name
• Obtain financial documents, including details about your investments or other relevant financial information
• Bring all documents that have been filed in court for your divorce or those that need to be filed
• Dress professionally and mentally prepare to interact civilly with your soon-to-be-ex
• Bring a list of key items that are non-negotiable and items that are important to you, such as retaining ownership of a business or obtaining majority child support
• Take your pre- or post-nuptial agreement if applicable

Your attorney or mediator can advise you on any other documents you may need to bring during the mediation process. Keep in mind that it may take several mediation meetings to settle all aspects of your divorce.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Divorce Attorney

Divorce is a challenging process, though most Illinois divorces can be settled outside of an expensive trial process with the help of a mediator. Contact a Kane County, IL divorce lawyer to get your divorce proceedings started.

At Shaw Sanders, P.C., main attorney Matt Shaw also works as a mediator. He can help advocate for your rights during your divorce to ensure you and your partner reach the best agreements possible. Call 630-584-5550 for a free consultation.