Pape and Associates

WHAT IS MEDIATION?

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential, cooperative problem-solving process wherein you can control the decisions that affect your family. An impartial trained mediator assists people in clearly defining the issues and in working out a mutually acceptable agreement on issues concerning parenting, support and the division of property.

HOW DOES MEDIATION WORK?

A trained mediator will work with both parties to identify, negotiate and resolve issues in a way that is fair and mutually acceptable and reflects the unique interests and needs of the people involved.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEDIATION?

Allows you to control the decisions that affect your life and the lives of your children
Supports non-adversarial approches to the resolution of issues
Promotes communication and cooperation
Establishes the foundations for continued co-parenting
Focuses on the present and the future - not the past
Is confidential and private
Benefits children by reducing conflict and stress
Is empowering and is committed to self-determination
Reduces the liklihood of post-divorce litigation

HOW LONG DOES MEDIATION TAKE?

Mediation varies in length depending on the complexity of the issues involved and the readiness of the couple. The average mediation involves six to eight sessions.

WHAT DOES MEDIATION COST?

Fees for mediation are billed at an hourly rate. The couple is encouraged to share the cost. The total costs of a mediated divorce can be substantially less than those in the traditional adversarial process.

WHERE WILL MEDIATION TAKE PLACE?

Our offices provide a safe and comfortable enfironment, conducive to the mediation process. Day and evening hours are available. Office locations include DuPage, Kane and Cook counties.

Divorce is difficult on everyone involved - parents, children and extended families.

Divorce mediation can be a healing process that enhances communication and cooperation among family members and helps them fulfill their individual and jont responsibilities in new and productive ways.