What to Expect from a Divorce Settlement Conference in Illinois

 Posted on September 03, 2020 in Illinois Divorce

Divorce is rarely easy for either party given the major life changes it brings and the potential for emotions to run high, but the good news is that most divorces are able to be resolved through a settlement agreement. When settlements are successful, couples can avoid facing the time, costs, and publicity associated with a divorce trial. Just keep in mind that if you choose to pursue the settlement approach, it is still important to come prepared for negotiations, and that starts with understanding what to expect from a settlement conference.

Important Things to Know About a Divorce Settlement Conference

As you begin the divorce process, the more you know about settlement conferences in advance, the less likely you are to be surprised by the unexpected. Some important things to keep in mind include:

• A variety of important decisions may be discussed. If you and your spouse are able to cooperate, you can reach a settlement agreement on many different matters, including property division, spousal maintenance, child support, parenting time, and parental responsibilities.

• Attorneys may or may not be present. Some divorcing couples choose to pursue settlement negotiations on their own without involving attorneys but know that you are within your rights to hire an attorney and involve him or her in settlement conferences if you choose. An attorney can not only represent your side but can also provide guidance and information based on his or her legal expertise and experience with the divorce process.

• Mediation may be a good option. You can also choose to use the services of a third-party mediator in your settlement conference. A mediator guides the negotiation without taking sides to promote effective communication and cooperation between the two parties.

• More than one conference may be necessary. With so many important items to discuss, it may not be possible to resolve everything through one conference. Be prepared to take a break and return to discussions at a later time.

• A judge can get involved. If informal settlement negotiations have stalled, it may be best to proceed to a judicial settlement conference in which a judge provides recommendations for resolutions

Whether you intend to pursue informal negotiations, mediation, or a judicial conference, it is often beneficial to at least consult with an experienced attorney first who can advise you as to the best approach. From there, you can decide how much you would like an attorney to be involved throughout the divorce process.

Contact a St. Charles Divorce Attorney

The divorce settlement conference is an important step in legally ending your marriage. At Weiler & Associates, Inc., our attorneys have experience with all different types of approaches to the divorce process, including settlement negotiations, mediation, and trial litigation. We will work with you to consider all of your options and pursue a method with the best chance of protecting your interests. Call our diligent and dedicated Kane County divorce lawyers today at 630-331-9110 to schedule a private consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=3800000&SeqEnd=5300000