Arlington Heights Mediation Lawyer

Arlington Heights Mediation Attorney Helping Resolve Disputes in Divorce and Child Custody Cases

A family-related legal matter can be resolved in one of two basic ways. The first way involves relying on a family court judge to make a decision on the issue in question. The process leading to the point where the judge makes the decision, however, can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. The second way to resolve a case involves the two parties negotiating an agreement of their own and presenting the agreement for approval by the judge. One of the most common methods of facilitating such negotiations is called mediation.

At the Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley, we understand the challenges that you may be facing as you deal with your divorce or other family-related legal matters. We also recognize the stress and uncertainty that is often associated with courtroom litigation. With that in mind, our firm offers mediation services for those looking for out-of-court options for resolving their case.

Divorce and Family Law Mediation in Cook County

In the realm of family law, the process of mediation involves both parties meeting together, along with a neutral third party known as a mediator. While the mediator might also be an attorney, he or she does not represent either party in the case. The mediator's job is to facilitate discussions between the parties and to ensure that each meeting continues moving toward a resolution.

Depending on the circumstances, mediation might be ordered by the court, or the parties could elect to try mediation on their own. A court-approved mediator will typically supervise court-ordered mediation. Those who choose mediation can select any mediator they wish.

Attorney Donald J. Cosley and his team are equipped to mediate cases related to:

• Divorce
• Marital property division
• Maintenance, also known as alimony or spousal support
• Parenting plans, including the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time
• Child support
• Non-minor support for college expenses

How Mediation Works in Illinois

Unless it has been ordered by the court, the mediation process is voluntary and non-binding until the resulting agreement is approved by the court in accordance with the law. In most cases, mediation is more efficient and less expensive than litigation. There are situations in which mediation might not be suitable, such as in cases where domestic violence is a concern, but if you choose mediation for your family law case, you can expect that:

• You, along with your attorney if you wish, will meet with the other party to resolve your differences.
• You and the other party will both have the opportunity to speak, contribute, and be heard.
• Your mediator will offer guidance regarding the discussions but will not provide legal advice, as the mediator does not represent either party.
• The negotiations may require several sessions until a resolution is reached.

Perhaps the most important benefit of mediation is that the parties involved retain full control over the outcome of the case. The mediator can help you address legal details, such as the proper wording of an agreement, but the substance of the agreement is up to you.

Contact Our Barrington Divorce Mediation Attorney to Get Started

For more information about family law mediation at the Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley, contact our office. Call 847-253-3100 to schedule a free consultation today. Our firm serves family law clients in Rolling Meadows, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Palatine, Barrington, and throughout Cook County, and Northern Illinois.