Should I Consider Mediation for My Divorce?

 Posted on July 28, 2025 in Divorce

Every divorce case presents differently. There is no single approach that can possibly address every couple’s unique needs when a marriage falls apart. In more troubled divorces, litigation is sometimes the only way to move forward. But if you are open to other methods, you and your spouse could benefit from mediation.

With assistance from a Will County family law attorney, you can work toward an agreeable settlement in out-of-court negotiations. The Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. represents clients going through contested divorces, and we can advocate for you in mediation to make sure that you are fairly represented.

Mediation as an Alternative to Litigation

In highly contested divorces, some couples turn to litigation as a first resort. In litigation, you and your spouse can argue to the judge for a preferred ruling in your divorce. However, there is no guarantee that a judge will see things your way in your divorce. Combined with the difficulties of scheduling a court date and the expensive legal fees, litigation is not always the optimal way to resolve a divorce.

Mediation can help you get around the various frustrations of litigation. For instance, mediation is not subject to the same tight schedule as the court, allowing for greater flexibility. Moreover, mediation also tends to be less expensive for all parties involved. If you and your spouse are willing to work together, mediation can be a less painful alternative than arguing your case to a judge.

Is Mediation Less Stressful Than Litigation?

Many people turn to mediation for the comfort it can provide during an overwhelming divorce. Rather than a Will County courthouse, you can choose to hold mediation in your home, an office, or anywhere else you wish. The choice of setting in mediation can help to bring down the tension, allowing for a more informal discussion.

The structure of mediation is also less adversarial than going to court. Instead of trying to convince the judge, mediation takes place strictly between you and your spouse as you work toward a settlement. This style of negotiation encourages collaboration and compromise, and a certified mediator can help to keep the conversation on-track and productive.

How Mediation Can Help Parents in a Divorce

If you and your co-parent are going through a divorce, you will inevitably have to work together to raise your child. Even if you are not on the best of terms, going to mediation with your co-parent can allow you to work together on a feasible long-term parenting plan. This process is often far less traumatic for a child than an aggressive courtroom battle, and it can also lay the groundwork for how future disputes will be resolved.

Mediation is not right for every family situation. If your co-parent or spouse has a history of dangerous behavior, speak with your attorney first and prioritize your safety.

Contact a Joliet, IL Family Law Attorney

At the Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C., we can help you pursue mediation to help you reach a fair settlement outside of court. Our Will County, IL divorce lawyers can advise you of how to protect your rights in mediation, and if necessary, we can turn to litigation to advocate for you. To learn more about how we can assist with the mediation process, call us at 815-666-1285 to set up a free consultation.