Three Things You Didn’t Know about Divorce Mediation in Chicago

Although divorce mediation in Chicago is quickly becoming recognized as a sensible alternative to a bitter fight in court, many people are still unfamiliar with this process. Learning these three facts about divorce mediation in Chicago can help you make an informed decision about whether this process may make sense for you.

Divorce Mediation is for People Who Don’t Agree

Some people believe that divorce mediation is for people who are having an uncontested divorce and simply need to draft an agreement. However, people who are already in agreement do not need to go through the process of mediation. While these people may require the assistance of a divorce lawyer to walk through the procedural steps, this is not the role of mediation. Mediation is a process for people who are unable to resolve their differences by themselves.

Divorce Mediation Does Not Take Away the Court’s Involvement

Mediation significantly minimizes the role that the court system will have. It takes the decision-making authority away from the judge and lays it firmly at the feet of the divorcing couples. At the end of successful mediation, the parties have their agreement drawn up in writing. This agreement is then taken before a judge to incorporate into the divorce order. Since divorce is a legal process, there is still minimal court involvement to finalize the process.

The Mediator Is Not the Decision Maker

Some people confuse mediators with others who impose orders like judges or arbitrators. However, a mediator is a neutral and impartial third party whose role is to help the parties reach a peaceful compromise with which they are both satisfied. He or she guides the communication process but does not impose or force any decision on the parties who act in a voluntary manner.