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How to Get the Most Value out of Mediation in a Divorce
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that many people find preferable to litigation, and for good reason. In general, mediation tends to be much easier and less expensive than a prolonged courtroom battle. However, mediation only works when both parties are willing to work together. If you and your spouse have been ordered to attend mediation, or you have chosen to go voluntarily, a St. Charles, IL divorce attorney at Shaw Sanders, P.C. can help you prepare.
Attorney Matt Shaw is a certified mediator with years of experience helping clients reach amicable resolutions to family law issues. From the start of your case to the end, our firm can guide you through the mediation process to help you get the most out of it.
Approach Mediation in Good Faith
Even if you and your spouse ended your marriage on poor terms, you should try to remain civil during mediation. The reasons for keeping a civil attitude are entirely practical, and will serve you better in the long run.
For instance, consider your budget. Every minute spent in mediation may be coming out of your own funds. Needlessly antagonizing your spouse can waste precious time and money, neither of which you can get back. Mediation is most productive when both parties can set their animosity aside and come to a reasonable agreement. At Shaw Sanders, P.C., our certified mediator can help keep the peace between you and your spouse while proposing different solutions.
Be Willing to Make Compromises in Mediation
First and foremost, mediation is about collaboration. The mediator has no power to make a ruling like a judge, so it is up to you and your spouse to come to an agreement. If you dig your heels in and refuse to cede any ground, you are unlikely to get much out of mediation.
To reach a favorable resolution in mediation, almost by definition, you will need to compromise in ways you may not be happy about. For instance, you might agree to pay spousal support in exchange for a greater share of marital property. At Shaw Sanders, P.C., we can help you negotiate a divorce settlement to protect your best interests.
Seek Counsel From a Divorce Attorney Before Starting Mediation
During mediation, you will likely have to discuss important issues like property division and child custody. As you might expect, the laws around these issues can be quite complex. Rather than try to advocate for yourself with only limited legal knowledge, you can benefit from speaking with an experienced attorney beforehand.
At Shaw Sanders, P.C., we can advise you throughout the mediation process so that you can effectively speak up for yourself. If mediation does not work out, we are ready to represent you in litigation.
Contact a Kane County, IL Divorce Attorney
Mediation can help to alleviate much of the stress that comes with divorce. That being said, it is important that you know how to make the most out of your mediation sessions. If you are in need of legal counsel or representation from a St. Charles, IL family law attorney, call Shaw Sanders, P.C. today. We offer free consultations at 630-584-5550.
630-584-5550