MEDIATION
    PROCESS

Mediation is a process whereby a couple who cannot agree upon visitation
and/or custody meets with a neutral third party to attempt to resolve the
disputed issues.  The mediator attempts to find a common ground between
the parties and build from there.  The mediator is not a judge.  Therefore, the
mediator does not make a recommendation or decision as to the disputed
issues between the couple.  No person MUST agree to anything in
mediation.  The sole purpose of mediation is to assist the parties in reaching
an agreement.  If an agreement is reached by the parties, this agreement is
put into writing, called the mediator's report, and given to the couple, their
attorneys, and even the Court.  

Any agreement reached in mediation is not binding upon the couple.  That
means that either person may change his/her mind and no longer agree with
the agreement reached.  The mediator cannot testify to the statements made
during mediation.  The report of the mediator simply states whether an
agreement was reached and does not select one parent over the other.

Most counties have a list of court-approved mediators.  You can usually
contact the circuit clerk of the county in which you reside to obtain names of
court approved mediators.  


                                       MEDIATORS

Court approved mediator by county:

Winnebago County              Boone County                Ogle County
Website of the Law Office of Angela Lund-Logan