On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in divorce mediation on Thursday, May 9, 2019.
Divorcing couples often feel anxious about many aspects of their upcoming separation, not the least of which is the drain the divorce will put on their pocketbooks. This is why a number of Illinois couples will look for cheaper alternatives than going to court, with divorce mediation considered one of those less expensive routes. Here are some reasons why mediation does not cost as much as litigious divorces.
Money Crashers points out that, per Mediate.com, a typical divorce that goes through the court system will cost an average amount of $15,000. An average divorce that goes through mediation, by contrast, runs up a typical charge of just $3,000. The reduction in costs is due to a variety of factors, including the simplification of the mediation process as compared to a court trial and the reduced cost of mediation services as opposed to legal representation in court.
The costs of hiring a mediator can vary, usually in the range of $100 to $300 per hour. Mediators in certain areas of the country will be cheaper than others. Texas, for example, sees mediators from legal backgrounds and social work backgrounds, whereas most California mediators tend to be more expensive since they also work as attorneys. So whether you find a more expensive mediator in Illinois may depend on the mediator’s professional background.
It is important to remember that mediation not only is cheaper financially, but can also exact less of an emotional cost. Mediation places you and your spouse in a forum that is less adversarial and more conducive to problem solving, which provides less opportunities to challenge each other and leave emotional scars. For many couples, a process that is more amicable than going to court is just as crucial, if not more so, than saving money.
Keep in mind that not all divorces are suited for mediation, so anyone who is looking at divorce on the horizon should consider consulting with a knowledgeable divorce attorney about the viability of mediating their divorce. Be aware that this article is not written to provide you with legal counsel. Read it for your educational benefit.
