Preparing for Divorce Mediation in Illinois

 Posted on January 10, 2014 in Divorce

When going through the divorce process, there are many different options. Some people do not set foot in a courtroom or deal with attorneys, others fight about every aspect of the divorce until the attorneys have no choice but to let to judge decide. One option to sail through your divorce smoothly is through attorney mediation.

Many divorce attorneys also can serve as divorce mediators because the two jobs are very similar. After choosing a mediator, you will still have steps to prepare for your first session. The Huffington Post suggests the following:

Keep your emotions in check: Mediation is mostly a negotiation process. If you are overwhelmed with emotions, you may not be thinking straight and it will be hard for you to express yourself and your wants in the process. Try to settle your emotions before entering the mediation room.

1.  Expect to compromise and negotiate, not an argument: The idea of mediation is that neither party wants an argument. The solution should be found through peaceful discussions and negotiating with one another, led by the mediator. Decide what is most important for you to keep and what you are willing to give up.
2.  Have a budget: If you know how much money you will need each month to live off of, you will be better able to negotiate with that number in mind. Do not leave anything out, include expenses for kids, the house, your car, insurances, and other miscellaneous expenses in your budget.
3.  Express your concerns: Be sure to discuss everything that you wish to during the mediation so that everything is out in the open. This way, issues can be resolved and your ex-spouse will know how you feel about the issues. Nothing can be resolved if it is not brought into the conversation.
4.  Know your rights: Having more than one consultation with various mediators is important, you should pick someone that you feel comfortable with. Researching mediation and divorce law is also not a bad idea so that you have an idea of what you are getting into. Your mediator can also answer any questions that you may have.
5. Bring organized financial documents: Having documents with you at the mediation will help determine how much each party should have in the end. Bring with you information about: bank accounts, stocks, retirement funds, timeshares, businesses, mutual funds, brokerage accounts, equity in companies, important household contents, annuities, and pending lawsuits. This information will take time to collect and the parties may have to work together to gather it all, but it is essential to the mediation.

Attorneys at Stock, Carlson & Asso. LLC can serve as your divorce mediators in Wheaton, Illinois. Get started on your peaceful divorce process with a mediator today.