Illinois Divorce Mediators: What they do, how they work, and the process
Mediation is a voluntary dispute resolution process in which the parties use the help of a neutral person known as the mediator to help reach a mutually satisfactory solution to their dispute. However, it is very important to note that the decision making power in mediation is actually determined with the rest of the parties and not the mediator. The mediator is there to help each party understand each others position and to help them arrive at a possible solution. In other word, he/she acts as a problem solver. Any of the party including the mediator can withdraw from the mediation process at any time and for any reason. The mediation process has six steps and in this article we are going to discuss those steps to help you understand how Illinois Divorce Mediators work.
Step 1 introductory remarks.
Introductory remarks is usually done by the mediator. He/she will wait until when both parties are present to make introduction. The physical setting is usually controlled by the mediator so that no party involved in the mediation process feels threatened. In the introductory statement, the mediator will clearly outline his/her role as well as the role of other participants. The introductory statement actually set the ground rules that will help the divorce mediation process run smoothly.
Step two. Statement of the problem by both parties.
After the mediators make introductory remarks, he/she will give each side an opportunity to tell their story uninterrupted. Most of the time, the person who requested for mediation will be ask to speak first. The main aim of this step is not to present the fact but to give each party a chance to speak their mind and to give the mediator more information regarding the problem at hand.
Step 3. Information gathering
The Illinois mediators will then ask both parties open ended questions to see how they respond to them and also to get more information regarding the dispute at hand. The divorce mediator will also be keen to get emotional undercurrents. If necessary, the mediator will repeat key issues to the parties and will summarize most the time. This will help the mediator to build a good working relationship between him and the parties involved in the mediation process.
Step 4. Problem identification.
This is a very crucial step in the mediation process and the mediator will try to identify the root cause of the problem. The mediator will ask the parties in dispute specific questions that we help him/her identify the root cause of the problem. After identifying the problems or issues affecting the parties in dispute, he/she with then decide the issue to be tackled first.
Step 5. Bargaining.
In this step, the mediator may propose a solution to the problem at hand and then give each party a chance to express their views and opinions. The mediator can also give each party a chance to propose a long lasting solution and ask other parties involved in the mediation process to discuss and reach a common ground.
Step 6. Reaching an agreement.
Once the participant show the commitment of achieving a negotiated agreement, the mediator will then propose a brainstorming session so as to explore potential solutions. In some instances, the Illinois divorce mediators may decide to hold private session with both parties in order to help them reach an agreement.