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Custody and Visitation
Mediation can be a very effective method to resolve disputes related to custody and visitation issues in divorce and paternity cases.
Types of Disputes. The types of custody and visitation issues mediated involves a multitude of parenting decisions related to medical, educational and religious choices for the children, as well as selection of the primary residence and visitation schedules that are in the best interest of a child.
Mediation is Different than Litigation. The process of mediation permits a parent an opportunity to plead their cases and say what they feel needs to be said outside of the courtroom -- but in a neutral setting. The normal rules of procedure and evidence that are required in a courtroom, often prohibits a party from presenting important views, which can be very frustrating to a client. However, these rules do not apply in a mediation.
Mediation Focuses on the Best Interests of a Child. Mediation can often resolve parenting disputes which are highly personal and extremely important to a parent. Mediation does not try to change a parent's perspective concerning what is the best choice for their children. Rather, the process helps guide a parent to focus on the best interest of their children, while acknowledging the influence and importance of the other parent's perspective to achieve an appropriate compromise between the parties.
The differences between mediating or litigating parenting issues can be summarized by five key principles:
In the Legal System
- Facts Count
- Parties’ emotions don’t matter
- Parties attack each other
- Lawyers do the talking
- Past services and good deeds may be ignored
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In the World of Mediation
- Feelings count much more than facts
- Parties’ emotions are valued
- Problems are attacked
- Parties get to say what they want
- Proper recognition is given for past services or deeds
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Ms. Hipple is a Certified Mediator with extensive experience and training to help parents try to resolve
custody and visitation issues. She has experience handling court-appointed mediations, as well as cases
independently requested by parties who desire to resolve issues outside of litigation.
Please feel free to call or e-mail us if we can be of assistance.
CHICAGO
(773) 625-2200
(773) 625-2220 FAX
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SUBURBS
(847) 426-2900
(847) 426-2907 FAX
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