Chicago Divorce Mediation Services
A Private, Collaborative, and Cost-Effective Divorce Solution
Litigation is not the only path.
For many Chicago couples, divorce mediation offers a more intelligent, dignified, and empowered way to end a marriage. Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where you and your spouse work with a neutral third-party—the mediator—to reach a customized agreement on all aspects of your divorce.
As a certified mediator, Schylon Lane of The Elite Law Group can facilitate this process. A mediator does not make decisions for you or give legal advice. Instead, their role is to guide the conversation, manage conflict, and help you brainstorm creative solutions that work for your family.
The Benefits of Mediation
vs. Traditional Litigation
Choosing mediation in Chicago provides significant advantages over a contested divorce in the Cook County courts:
You Control the Outcome: In a trial, a judge who does not know you or your children makes the final decisions. In mediation, you and your spouse retain complete control over the outcome.
It's Confidential: What happens in mediation stays in mediation. The process is private and cannot be used in court, which encourages open and honest discussion.
It's Faster: A contested divorce can drag on for years, dictated by the court's backed-up calendar. Mediation moves at your pace, allowing you to finalize your divorce in months, not years.
It's More Affordable: By avoiding the costly process of discovery, multiple court hearings, and a trial, mediation can save you tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees.
It Preserves Relationships: Mediation is built on communication and respect. It is an ideal process for co-parents, as it avoids the "winner-take-all" mentality of litigation and sets a positive foundation for your future co-parenting relationship.
The Role of an Attorney in Mediation
Even in mediation, it is crucial that each party has their own independent legal counsel. A mediator cannot give you legal advice.
The Elite Law Group can support you in two ways:
As Your Mediator: We can act as the neutral third-party to facilitate the process for you and your spouse.
As Your Consulting Attorney: We can act as your personal legal advisor during the mediation process. We will advise you on your rights, help you brainstorm proposals, and review the final Marital Settlement Agreement to ensure your rights are fully protected before you sign.
Is Mediation Right for You?
Mediation is successful when both parties are willing to negotiate in good faith. It is not suitable for cases involving domestic violence, severe power imbalances, or a history of hidden assets.
If you are looking for a smarter, more peaceful way to move forward, contact The Elite Law Group to explore our Chicago divorce mediation services.