Mediation Services

Who We Help

We understand that every family is going through something different. That’s why our team tailors our solution to your particular situation, so you can create a plan that’s tailored to you. We often assist clients in scenarios like these:

• You agree the marriage should end but still disagree about the terms. You both accept that divorce is the outcome, yet one or more issues remain unresolved. You want a mediator to help you discuss those points, consider possible compromises, and work toward a complete settlement without preparing for trial.
• You and the other parent see parenting differently. You have different ideas about parenting schedules, holidays, transportation, communication, or major decisions involving your children. You need a mediator to help you work through those differences and build clear parenting terms both households can follow.
• You disagree about dividing property and debts. You cannot agree on who keeps the marital home, how retirement accounts or other major assets should be split, or who stays responsible for certain debts. Mediation lets you compare arrangements and negotiate an overall division.
• You disagree about support and ongoing expenses. The sticking points involve maintenance, child support, or how continuing costs for your children should be shared. You need a mediator to help clarify the financial picture and reach practical payment terms.
• Your case involves a hard-to-divide financial interest. Your divorce includes a business, professional practice, investment, or another asset that cannot be split easily. You need mediation to work through questions of value, income, ownership, and possible settlement options with the right financial information on hand.

If your situation looks a little different, reach out anyway. We are happy to talk it through with you.

The Mediation Process in Illinois

Mediation is a voluntary process built around conversation rather than courtroom argument. A neutral mediator does not take sides or decide the outcome. Instead, the mediator encourages open discussion and helps both parties look for common ground. Here is a general picture of how mediation services usually unfold:

• Getting started. Both parties agree to try mediation, either on their own or through a court referral. In some Cook County matters, the court may direct parties to mediation for parenting disputes.
• Sharing information. Each side gathers and exchanges the details that matter to the discussion, such as financial records, parenting concerns, or asset information. Good information leads to better conversations.
• Working through issues. During one or more sessions, the mediator helps both parties raise concerns, explore options, and test possible compromises. You stay in control of what you agree to.
• Reaching an agreement. When you settle the open issues, the terms are written up. Your own attorney can review any proposed agreement before you sign, so you understand exactly what you are agreeing to.
• Finalizing the outcome. The agreement can then be submitted to the court as part of your divorce or parenting matter, giving it legal effect.

Mediation is confidential, and nothing you discuss becomes a binding decision unless you agree to it. If certain issues stay unresolved, you keep every option open, including moving to negotiation or trial.

Why Choose Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC

At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we know the importance of mediation in many family law cases. Therefore, the firm is proud to have two certified mediators as part of our experienced legal team. 

• Two certified mediators on our team. Vanessa Hammer and Brendan Hammer are both certified mediators, and Brendan is approved for mediation in the Domestic Relations Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County. That standing reflects real credibility with Illinois courts.
• A commitment to keeping you in charge. We believe you should hold real influence over the outcome of your divorce rather than leaving every decision to a judge.
• A child-centered approach. When children are involved, our team prioritizes their best interests and helps parents lay the groundwork for cooperative co-parenting.
• Solutions built for your life. We bring creative, practical thinking to complicated situations, including cases involving businesses and other assets that are tricky to divide.

Our case process begins with a conversation. We listen closely to what matters most to you, explain your options, and help you decide whether mediation is a good fit. From there, we guide the process with steady support, keep the discussion productive, and advocate for your goals every step of the way.

Learn More About Mediation Services from Our Illinois Family Law Firm

Ultimately, the decision to pursue mediation in a divorce case depends on the specific circumstances and the willingness of both parties to engage in a cooperative and constructive process. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney at Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC can provide valuable guidance on whether mediation is the right path for your situation.

Contact us today for more information about your options and see if mediation services are the right choice for you.

Frequently Asked Questions