Ending a marriage is typically stressful because of all the uncertainty and potential losses, financial and otherwise. A divorce is often an expensive and time-consuming process. These days, many spouses in Illinois are choosing to end their marriages through mediation rather than fighting it out in court. Here are two reasons why.
Mediation saves time
A big reason why many spouses opt for divorce mediation is the ability to expedite the process. The average litigated divorce may take anywhere from nine to 24 months to complete. In contrast, the average time for a mediated divorce is around two to four months. With mediation, couples can resolve their issues faster and more efficiently, which in turn will reduce the stress on all parties involved.
Mediation saves money
Time is money, and since divorce mediation saves time, it also can save divorcing spouses a significant amount of money. On average, a litigated divorce can cost up to $40,000 or more, while divorce mediation often costs far less. Many couples who separate are already experiencing financial strain. By opting for divorce mediation, they can reduce the overall cost of their divorce.
Getting professional help amid divorce
For couples who are willing to work together, divorce mediation can save time and money while reducing conflict and stress. However, divorce is a legal process, so those in Illinois who are headed for a marital breakup may want to speak with an experienced legal professional before doing anything. A knowledgeable lawyer can answer difficult questions and provide guidance every step of the way.