Signs Divorce Mediation Might be For You

 Posted on October 19, 2023 in Divorce

Divorce mediation is not for every couple. Some spouses refuse to cooperate with the process, failing even to keep scheduled appointments. Other spouses are unable to agree on anything because they cannot work together without fighting. However, alternative dispute resolution does work quite well for most people who are getting divorced. Even rather contentious divorces can often be settled out of court through mediation. There are a lot of advantages to uncontested divorce. Resolving the issues in your divorce through mediation is usually faster and less costly than asking a Judge to make these decisions. If you are considering giving divorce mediation a try, consider consulting with an experienced attorney first. You should be represented by a lawyer even if you and your spouse are amicable and intend to file an uncontested divorce. 

Will Divorce Work for Us?

Divorce mediation works for most spouses. Whether it works for you, however, depends on a number of factors. Some positive signs that you and your spouse may succeed in mediation include:

• Amicable divorce - If you and your spouse are amicable and likely to remain friends even after the divorce, you may be able to reach an agreement in mediation. More amicable divorcing spouses are generally more willing to compromise and cooperate. 
• No children - Not having children can make it easier to reach an agreement because there are usually fewer - and less emotionally charged - issues that need to be resolved. Many parents do not want to give up any time with their child willingly. Some will go to Court to fight for more parenting time than their spouse would agree to give them. 
• Gray divorce - Older adults are often better able to communicate and compromise in the interest of reaching a resolution. 
• Strong prenuptial agreement - If you have a prenuptial agreement in place, you likely have few issues left to resolve. Most are likely governed by the terms of your contract. 
• Committed parents - If you are both focused on putting your children first, it is more likely that you will both be willing to make compromises and treat each other fairly. Parents who resolve their divorces through mediation can spare their children the stress of going to Court. 

Each set of spouses and each divorce is unique. Your attorney can assess your situation and help you decide whether alternative dispute resolution is for you. 

Contact a Barrington, IL, Divorce Attorney

The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. can help you and your spouse take advantage of divorce mediation as an alternative to a contested divorce. Attorney Richardson, a skilled Northwest Cook County divorce lawyer, will work to make alternative dispute resolution work for you. Contact us at 847.873.6741 for a complimentary consultation.