LINDA B. KROLL, JD, LCPC, THERAPIST, MEDIATOR, ATTORNEY

What is mediation?

Mediation is a process in which you and your spouse come to speak with a mediator about the issues you need to discuss to get divorced.  You decide your property division, whether there will be maintenance, and if so, how much and how long, and decisions about child support and shared parenting.

What is a mediator?

A mediator is either a lawyer or a therapist who has completed at least 40 hours of mediation training. I am both a lawyer and a therapist, and I’ve had advanced training in mediation and given workshops to other mediators and therapists. 

Why should I mediate?

Mediation is a non-adversarial process that leads to a win-win outcome. You can learn how to communicate with respect as you make decisions that will affect your life and your children’s lives forever.

Mediation is faster, less expensive, and more peaceful and compassionate than fighting in court and/or letting a judge decide your future.

       You get to take the time you need to make the decisions that are best for you, as you restructure your family in a way that can heal.

Will I need an attorney?

You will need an attorney, but most of the work will be done in mediation. Your attorneys will review the document we create in mediation, and one of your attorneys will take you to court on the day you get divorced. 

You will only need to go to court on the day you get divorced. There is no need to file for divorce before that time, which would then require your spouse file a response, and later make trips to court for continuances or status calls until you finally reach agreement.

As a mediator, I stay neutral, and create a safe environment which empowers both of you to learn the facts and make informed decisions. I tell you both what your attorneys would tell you, what a judge might do, what other people have done. We generate as many options as we can before you make any decisions, which will be made after input from your attorneys.

I later write your marital settlement agreement which will be used in court when you get divorced. Your attorneys will be part of a team of five, working together with us to restructure your family in as peaceful and respectful a way as possible. 

Your attorneys will review your document from your perspective, and make whatever suggestions they would like. You will then discuss any changes that need to be made until you and your spouse agree on the final document.

How long will mediation take?

The number of sessions of mediation depend on the issues involved and your ability to have a peaceful conversation. I’ve done mediations in two sessions, but it usually takes more because the emotional issues can also be resolved in a liberating and healing way. 

How much will it cost?

My fee is $300 per hour, and we often work in two hour increments. The document fee is $900.

What do we do in mediation?

Every session begins with my speaking to each of you individually. Then we work together for awhile, and as needed, I’ll speak with each of you alone. My goals are to educate you as to the legal information and financial choices available. I also teach you methods of compassionate communication to facilitate an honest sharing of your feelings and thoughts as you make decisions that affect the future of your restructured family. 

What if I’m afraid to mediate?

I have worked with many highly conflictual couples, and I help them learn to express their sadness and hurt that is underneath the anger. Each person learns to speak their truth and to listen to each other with empathy. From a peaceful, safe context, all decisions can be made with mutual respect. 

How do I get my spouse to agree?

Ask your spouse to read this article or call me at 847-914-0560. Or ask if they are willing to come for one session to discuss your problems and what options might be available for creating a new relationship. Sometimes the threat of divorce is what finally motivates a disinterested or preoccupied spouse to finally pay attention to the issues that are creating turmoil. 

 

        If your spouse refuses to come, you can come alone to learn what you can do to change the relationship by healing your pain. As you heal  and become more peaceful, the relationship will change for the better  or you will be able to leave with more kindness and peace. 

How do I find a lawyer?

I have a list of lawyers with whom I’ve worked, or you can find your own. 

How do I begin?

Contact me today. 

Let the healing begin.

You don’t have to keep suffering. You can do your own personal and spiritual growth in a way that is healing to you and your family.