Child custody and parenting plan conflicts during divorce proceedings can be time-consuming and costly. In an effort to mitigate these costs, Illinois courts require parents go through mediation to attempt to resolve issues outside of court.
At Buffalo Grove Law Offices, we represent our clients through the entire divorce process, including the mediation process. We advise them on issues that need to be discussed and how various decisions could influence their lives after the divorce is final.
Learn more about how to protect your interests during mandatory mediation by arranging a free consultation at our office in Arlington Heights. We can be reached via email or by telephone at (847) 772-8579
Mandatory Mediation For Parent Failure To Agree On How To Parent
Mediation is mandatory in Illinois, if the parties do not agree on a parenting plan. If one party desires to have sole custody of the child(ren), and the other party wants to have sole custody also; or if one party wants sole custody and the other party wants to have joint custody of the child(ren), then the parties must go through mediation.
The court will order the parties to attend mediation, as it is necessary to have a court order for a specific mediator or mediation service that works with the court. The mediator will meet with the parties together, or separately (as the mediator decides) and meet with the children and/or other persons connected to the case, in order to attempt to fashion a parenting plan.
The parenting plan may be a complete one, or it may be a beginning plan that needs continued mediation or court involvement. The court will give the parties ample time to fashion an appropriate parenting plan before it sets the case for trial on the issue of custody.
How Effective Is Mandatory Mediation?
Most cases do settle the issue of custody of the child(ren), as it is very time-consuming, expensive and emotional for all concerned. If the case does go forward to trial on the issue of custody, the expense may very well involve the appointment of an attorney just for the child(ren) and a custody evaluator.