The holidays can be difficult for anyone. But if you’re going through divorce, it can be even more challenging. The good news is that there are ways to make things easier on everyone involved. One option is divorce mediation in Skokie IL, which helps people resolve conflicts and make decisions that are best for them and their family members during a time of transition.
Traditional divorce can be adversarial and may add more unneeded stress during the holiday season. With divorce mediation in Skokie IL, both parties work together to set goals and craft a resolution that is best for your family. This process is more peaceful and amicable and can be a particularly appealing option, especially during this hectic holiday season.
What is divorce mediation?
Divorce mediation is a process where both parties, with the help of a neutral third party, negotiate an agreement that is acceptable to both of them. The mediator is not an advocate for either side. Mediation can occur at any time after separation; however, it’s often best if it happens before lawyers are involved in order to avoid unnecessary legal costs and delays.
The main goal is compromise so that everyone leaves feeling satisfied with their settlement. Another objective of mediation is for both parties to reach an agreement about their issues in the case: child custody arrangements (custody), spousal support (alimony), parenting time/parenting plan, and debts/assets division. Mediation can be helpful if you want your divorce to be amicable and do not want to go through the stress or expense of litigation (court). With divorce mediation in Skokie IL, there are no winners or losers.
Why choose divorce mediation in Skokie IL during the holidays
In mediation, you can avoid the cost of a court battle. You likely don’t need the additional stress of listening to two attorneys argue about things that are important to you and your family. You don’t need the additional burden of an arbitrary judge, who doesn’t even know you, making decisions about your future.
Going to trial is not easy, and it can be a very cumbersome process. In addition to being expensive and time-consuming, going through litigation can also put a strain on your relationship with your ex-spouse. Divorce mediation in Skokie IL allows you both an opportunity to communicate clearly about what’s important in order for everyone involved (including children) to move forward in their lives with as little pain as possible.
There are many advantages to divorce mediation such as saving you money on legal fees. Almost all attorneys charge by the hour and some may even drag things out, which can hurt your pocketbook. The holidays are typically a time where people want more expendable cash for gifts, travel, family, and other things.
Mediation can also be a better option for children because it avoids exposing them to conflict between their parents. Children are less likely to feel traumatized by mediation because they see and experience their parents working together to make sure there is a resolution that meets their needs. This helps preserve family relationships once the divorce is finalized and helps children understand and accept how their family is going to change.
How to survive the holidays while going through a divorce
If you are going through divorce and are like many people, the holidays can be a stressful time. It is normal to feel anxious about what will happen. However, if you have decided to get divorced you can still have a nice holiday season with their children and friends.
One thing you can do is keep some of your routines and traditions. If you’ve always hosted a Christmas Eve party, continuing to do so can take your mind off of the divorce. It will also feel good for your children to have some consistency around the holidays.
If your previous traditions have the potential to dredge up memories you’re not ready to face, maybe new traditions would be better for you. Get the kids involved and see what they’d like to do to make some new memories. Have them help plan, decorate, and even host the event. Making new memories together will help you shape the path for your new future and your new family structure.
Don’t put kids in the middle of the divorce drama. They may already be stressed and they don’t need added guilt when they are spending time with your former partner. They don’t need to feel bad about loving their other parent or hear you badmouthing them for things they have done in the past. The holidays are about joy and keeping that as the central focus will help everyone enjoy the holiday.
Take care of yourself. You need to make sure you are mentally, physically, and emotionally ready to go through the holidays and participate in divorce mediation in Skokie IL at the same time. Perhaps you just need a spa day or a guys night out. Maybe you need to meet with a therapist. Whatever your needs are, don’t place them on the back burner.
RMG Family Law Can Help You With Divorce Mediation in Skokie IL
Divorce mediation in Skokie IL can help you preserve your relationships during the holidays and beyond with your children, your former partner, your family, and even your friends. It will allow you to stay focused on the end result of the process and ensure your family’s future is secure. The amicable process can help you have a less stressful holiday season because you won’t be spending time on petty arguments with your ex. It works best when both parties are willing to negotiate and compromise and our certified mediator can guide you through the process. Rita Ghose will help you focus on your goals and craft a resolution that meets your needs. Contact RMG Family Law today for a consultation.