Mediation Attorneys in Will County
Certified Mediators Serving Joliet, Lockport and Plainfield
At the Davi Law Group, we take pride in our skills as experienced litigators. We recognize, however, that a courtroom battle can be avoided in most legal situations. Our firm is also proud to offer certified mediators who are equipped to provide alternative dispute resolution services. Mediation can be utilized in a wide variety of disputes and our attorneys are committed to helping you find the resolution that best suits your needs in an efficient and cooperative manner whenever possible.
Understanding Mediation
Governed by the Uniform Mediation Act, the process of mediation utilizes a third party to facilitate productive negotiation between parties with the goal of reaching a mutually agreeable resolution to the dispute at hand. As the process is entirely dependent upon open communication, mediation works best when both parties are committed to working together to avoid litigation, and to find workable agreement that is beneficial to each side. At the Davi Law Group, we are prepared to mediate cases involving:
- Matters of family law, including divorce, asset division, child custody, visitation, spousal maintenance, and parental relocation;
- Business concerns, including contract negotiations, corporate legal matters, and employment related disputes; and
- Estate planning issues, including concerns related to wills, trusts, powers of attorney, living wills, and many more.
As an alternative dispute resolution method, mediation offers an avenue for reaching an agreement without the hassles and stress of traditional litigation. The process is voluntary and non-binding until a mediated agreement is properly approved by the court. Mediation, in many cases, is also more efficient than litigation, requiring less attorney time, and, subsequently, lower costs. The certified mediators at the Davi Law Group will ensure you fully understand the process so that you can set your expectations accordingly.
The Mediation Process at Work
While mediation is not guaranteed to be useful in all legal matters, you may find the process is right for you. Should you choose mediation, you can expect that:
- You and the other party or parties, along with attorneys if appropriate, will meet to negotiate the legal concern;
- Both sides will be given the opportunity to be heard;
- The mediator will help both parties address issues and obstacles to an agreement; and
- The negotiations may continue for several sessions until an agreeable resolution has been reached.
It is important to remember that a mediator is a trained facilitator, and his or her own opinions will have no bearing on the outcome of your case. You and the other parties retain full control of your settlement, while the mediator will help you address necessary legal details and considerations.
Confidentiality and Admissibility
One of the biggest advantages of mediation over litigation is that the proceedings are not entered into the public record. This permits both parties to communicate openly without fear of information being disseminated unless they give consent. Additionally, statements and comments made during mediation are not admissible in future litigation should the process break down and an agreement cannot be reached. Further confidentiality can be negotiated into the terms of the agreement, as well as the rules for mediation procedure.
If you are involved in a legal matter that you would like to resolve through mediation, contact the Davi Law Group. We offer a no-charge introductory consultation valued at up to $325.00. You will have the opportunity to meet with one of our skilled attorneys, ask questions, and receive our honest assessment of your case. We will work with you in finding the best approach for an efficient, favorable resolution. Should you retain us as your counsel, financing options are available. With five convenient office locations, we are proud to serve clients throughout the Will County area.