How Divorce Mediation Protects Children
Posted on January 18,2019 in Divorce
Divorce is a stressful process no matter what method you choose. While spouses are busy dividing their union into two separate lives, researchers recommend they do their best to make sure any children they share stay atop the priorities list. Although children may say they are fine with the situation, the process is always emotional and confusing. The final result may be a new living arrangement and lifestyle. They will likely miss at least one parent every day, and possibly lose friends at school due to a relocation.
Parents looking for an alternative to divorce litigation will find divorce mediation offers an opportunity to both protect and prioritize their children. Divorce mediation benefits include:
Parents Lead by Example
There are no benefits derived from a child witnessing their parents argue. Although spouses can terminate their marriage, they will always be parents. Divorce mediation avoids the emotional courtroom arguments by allowing both parties to come together and discuss their options civilly. If emotions begin to escalate, they can walk away and revisit the matter once tensions have subsided. Mediation is an excellent chance to teach children a valuable lesson, that no matter what hard feelings may exist, you can put them aside and compromise for the betterment of everyone involved.
Creating a Divorce Agreement that Puts Children First
Although the Illinois court system uses the idea of “what is best for the children” as the basis for all decisions during a divorce, it is often difficult for an unrelated judge to fully understand the intricacies of daily life within the family unit. Each family has a different routine and diverse roles; no two are alike. A judge will make a decision based on their outside perspective. Only the individuals in the situation grasp what daily life is like, which gives them a unique ability to determine what arrangement would work best to keep post-divorce life as normal as possible. The children will ultimately benefit if two parents can work together to create a parenting agreement.
Contact a DuPage County Divorce Lawyer
Regardless of the method of divorce chosen, children should always remain the primary focus. If you feel your children are suffering due to your separation and you would like a more amicable divorce option, a proven Wheaton, IL divorce mediation attorney can help. The experienced lawyers at Andrew Cores Family Law Group are trained in alternative dispute resolution and will work to protect your family’s interests. A member of our team will happily answer your questions and advise you of the options available for your situation. Call our office today at 630-871-1002 to schedule your free consultation.
Sources:
http://law.marquette.edu/courtadr/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Child-Focused-and-Child-Inclusive-Divorce.pdf
http://collablawil.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/McCormack-CDLB-July-2015-Children-Mediation-Process.pdf
