Financial Mediation Services in Illinois

Divorce can be emotionally exhausting and financially overwhelming. One of the most complex and sensitive aspects of a separation is the division of finances—something that, when not handled properly, can lead to long-term disputes and unfair outcomes. At Michael’s Mediation, we specialize in financial mediation that brings clarity, fairness, and structure to even the most complicated divorce financial matters.

Our founder holds a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, giving us a unique edge. Most divorce mediators lack this level of financial training, which means they often miss out on important financial nuances. But with our expertise in accounting and financial planning, we help couples make informed and equitable financial decisions that support long-term stability.

What Is Financial Mediation?

Financial mediation is a process where a neutral third party (your mediator) helps couples resolve financial disputes outside of court. Rather than spending thousands on litigation and giving control of your finances to a judge who doesn’t understand your family’s needs, financial mediation gives you control over how your finances will be divided—while preserving civility and cooperation.

At Michael’s Mediation, we provide comprehensive financial mediation for couples, ensuring every detail is addressed with precision and care.

Why Choose Financial Mediation in Divorce?

Divorce is not just a legal process; it’s a major financial restructuring. Making sound financial decisions now can help avoid regret later. That’s where our financial divorce mediation services come in. We help guide conversations around:

• Alimony (spousal support)
  
  
• Child support and shared children’s expenses
  
  
• Division of marital property
  
  
• Marital home equity distribution
  
  
• Non-marital property and inherited assets
  
  
• Business valuations and ownership disputes
  
  
• College education costs and long-term planning
  
  
• Life insurance and HSA accounts
  
  
• Health insurance for children
  
  
• Review of monthly living expenses
  
  
• Tax implications of divorce
  
  
• Prior and current tax filings
  
  

These decisions shape your financial future, which is why working with a trained financial mediator can make all the difference.

Unique Advantage: Mediation Backed by CPA Expertise

What sets Michael’s Mediation apart from other mediation practices is the ability to look beyond surface-level numbers. As a CPA, Michael can facilitate equitable financial agreements mediation that are thoughtful, sustainable, and grounded in sound financial principles.

While many mediators can guide a conversation, few can analyze tax returns, evaluate businesses, or understand the impact of dividing retirement accounts. With us, you’re getting financial mediation in divorce that not only helps you reach an agreement but also protects your long-term interests.

How Financial Mediation Works at Michael’s Mediation

Here’s what you can expect during your financial mediation sessions:

1. Initial Consultation

We start with a no-obligation meeting to understand your specific situation and financial challenges. We’ll outline how mediation works, what documentation is needed, and what outcomes you’re hoping for.

2. Information Gathering

Both parties complete a financial affidavit and provide documentation, including:

• Income statements
  
  
• Tax returns
  
  
• Property records
  
  
• Investment and retirement account balances
  
  
• Debts and liabilities
  
  
• Business valuations (if applicable)
  
  

As your financial mediator, Michael reviews these in detail to ensure complete transparency and accuracy.

3. Facilitated Discussion

With emotions running high during divorce, it’s easy to hit a communication wall. Michael provides a neutral and calm space where both partners can explore fair solutions together. We ensure that each party understands the implications of every financial decision.  We want you both to make informed decisions so you can reach an equitable financial agreement.

4. Drafting the Agreement

Once consensus is reached, a written financial agreement is drafted. This agreement can be used in court or as part of your full divorce settlement. We ensure all language is legally sound and financially viable.

Financial Mediation for Couples: A Better Path Forward

Couples often assume that financial issues must be decided in court—but financial mediation for couples offers a better way. It avoids expensive court battles, reduces conflict, allows you both to make your own informed decisions vs. allowing an uninformed judge make quick decisions that might not be equitable, and supports respectful co-parenting where applicable.

Our approach emphasizes:

• Collaboration over confrontation
  
  
• Data-driven and informed decisions
  
  
• Fairness, not favoritism
  
  
• Long-term financial health
  
  

Whether you’re dividing a marital home, figuring out college funding for your kids, or splitting retirement accounts, we guide you with integrity and clarity.

Common Financial Issues We Help Resolve

At Michael’s Mediation, our financial agreements mediation covers a wide range of topics, including:

Retirement Assets

Pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs and Roths are often overlooked or misvalued. We ensure proper QDROs (Qualified Domestic Relations Orders) are part of the process.

Real Estate and Property

From primary residences to investment properties, we help couples decide whether to sell, refinance, or transfer ownership equitably.

Business Interests

If either party owns a business, we help you evaluate its current and future value, ownership rights, and income impact.

Debt Division

We work to fairly divide joint debts like mortgages, credit cards, or business loans—while exploring the tax implications of each.

Benefits of Choosing Michael’s Mediation

• Expertise You Can Trust: With a CPA, Michael brings deep financial insight into every mediation.  Most divorce mediators do not have a CPA.
  
  
• Tailored Financial Planning: We don’t just split assets—we help you plan for a sustainable financial future.
  
  
• Affordable & Efficient: Skip the costly litigation and resolve disputes in a structured, cost-effective way.
  
  
• Compassionate Mediation: Divorce is hard enough; we make the process easier with empathy and professionalism.
  
  
• Local Focus in Illinois: We understand the legal and financial landscape in Illinois, offering solutions that align with state guidelines.
  
  

Get Started With Financial Mediation Today

If you're navigating a divorce and want to avoid the stress and expense of courtroom battles, let Michael’s Mediation help. Our financial mediation services empower you to take control of your financial future while preserving respect and collaboration.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Take the first step toward clarity, peace, and a fair financial outcome. Contact Michael’s Mediation in Illinois and discover how our CPA-backed financial divorce mediation can make all the difference.