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- Consumer's Choice Award 2021
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At Frankfort Law Group, we focus on collaborative divorce as a constructive path to ending a marriage with dignity and respect. Our approach brings spouses, counselors, and attorneys together to negotiate terms without court battles. By prioritizing clear communication, practical problem solving, and creative solutions, we help families protect children, minimize conflict, and reach durable agreements. We tailor strategies to your situation and keep you informed every step of the process, so you feel supported and in control.
Deciding to pursue a collaborative path does not mean giving up a strong plan for your future. It means choosing a process that emphasizes cooperation, fairness, and flexibility. Our team helps you identify goals, clarify financial matters, address parenting needs, and craft agreements that protect your interests while reducing stress for everyone involved. We guide you through the steps with patience and practical insight.
Choosing this route often yields benefits beyond the legal outcome. It supports healthier post case relationships by reducing courtroom tension and enabling direct communication between you and your spouse. You maintain more control over decisions, timelines, and financial arrangements. The process prioritizes privacy, reduces costs compared with protracted litigation, and creates durable agreements that fit your family dynamic. Our team helps you balance practical needs with emotional considerations through every stage.
Frankfort Law Group has served families in Will County for years, focusing on collaborative and constructive dispute resolution. Our approach combines clear guidance, careful listening, and practical negotiation to help you achieve durable agreements. Each attorney brings a broad view of family law, including custody considerations, asset division, and long-term planning. We work as a coordinated team, keeping clients informed and empowered. Our goal is to resolve matters with dignity while protecting your important interests and the well being of your children.
Collaborative divorce is a structured process that emphasizes cooperation and voluntary disclosure. Parties and their attorneys commit to finding settlements without going to court. Through a series of meetings, the team identifies shared goals, creates a financial plan, and crafts parenting arrangements that reflect the family routine. The process encourages ongoing dialogue, reduces the risk of surprises at trial, and helps each side feel heard. This approach supports practical resolution while preserving relationships for the future.
We tailor the process to your unique situation, balancing budget concerns with child centered planning. We provide clear explanations of options, listen to your preferences, and outline realistic timelines. By encouraging direct communication and structured negotiation, we reduce confrontation and foster decisions that both sides can accept. Our team remains accessible, offering guidance and steady support as you navigate this important transition.
Collaborative divorce is a voluntary process in which both spouses and their lawyers commit to solving problems together. If negotiations reach an impasse, the lawyers withdraw and cases move to traditional court litigation. The aim is to reach a comprehensive agreement on property, finances, and parenting without court intervention. By focusing on cooperation rather than conflict, parties can maintain a sense of control while addressing complex issues with practical, client oriented solutions.
Key elements include early joint planning sessions, open disclosure of relevant information, robust negotiation, and a formal settlement agreement. The process proceeds through structured meetings, with a focus on creative problem solving, financial transparency, parenting time arrangements, and long term planning. Our team ensures you understand options, deadlines, and consequences, while keeping the process on track. Implementation occurs outside court whenever possible, with collaborative signoffs and clear follow through to minimize disputes down the line.
This glossary defines common terms used in collaborative divorce and family mediation. It helps you understand the roles, processes, and expectations involved in the journey. Clear definitions support informed decisions and reduce miscommunication. The aim is to provide practical clarity so you can participate confidently in planning, negotiation, and finalization of agreements that protect your family while addressing financial and parenting needs.
Mediation is a voluntary, facilitated discussion where a neutral party helps the spouses explore options and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. It encourages open dialogue, clarifies priorities, and creates a foundation for a durable settlement. The mediator guides conversations but does not decide outcomes, inviting both sides to participate in constructive problem solving.
Open communication means sharing relevant information and discussing options in a respectful, non confrontational setting. It helps align expectations, identify priorities, and reduce misunderstanding. The collaborative process encourages honesty while protecting personal privacy. By maintaining clear channels of dialogue, both parties can contribute to practical decisions that support long term stability for the family.
Confidentiality in the collaborative process means information shared during negotiations remains private among the participants. This protects personal finances, sensitive details, and parenting plans while creating space for candid discussion. While not absolute, confidentiality supports an atmosphere where parties can explore options openly, knowing that disclosures outside the process will not be used to counter positions later.
A neutral facilitator assists the parties in keeping discussions productive and focused on goals. The facilitator does not advocate for either side, instead guiding the flow, managing time, and clarifying misunderstandings. This role helps maintain a respectful environment, encourages balanced participation, and supports a steady pace toward a practical agreement that reflects the family needs and financial realities.
Compared with traditional litigation, collaborative divorce offers a more cooperative path, often reducing cost, duration, and emotional strain. In court centered workflows, outcomes are imposed by a judge, whereas the collaborative approach seeks negotiated solutions that fit your family. The process emphasizes open communication, informed consent, and durable agreements. We help you weigh options, consider long term consequences, and decide whether collaboration aligns with your goals, values, and financial planning.
Some cases involve straightforward decisions on basic asset division and parenting plans. In these situations a streamlined approach can conclude quickly with less formal negotiation. The goal remains a fair agreement, but the path focuses on efficient information sharing, clear communication, and timely decision making. Our team guides you through this simpler route, ensuring you understand options and stay coordinated while avoiding unnecessary confrontations and lengthy procedures.
By addressing matters early and focusing on core needs, parties can reach a settlement sooner and reduce court filings. This approach keeps discussions collaborative rather than adversarial, which often lowers legal expenses and administrative costs. While not suitable for every case, a limited approach benefits families with clear priorities, modest assets, or straightforward parenting plans. We help you assess whether this path meets your goals and supports a timely resolution.
Taking a comprehensive approach provides thorough preparation, reducing the chance of later disputes. It supports transparent decision making, accurate budgeting, and durable settlements that suit your family over time. By coordinating financial, parental, and legal aspects, you gain a clearer picture of outcomes and responsibilities. The process invites collaboration, respects each party, and helps you reach agreements that align with your priorities while maintaining privacy and minimizing disruption.
With a comprehensive plan, financial planning and parenting arrangements are integrated from the start. This reduces back and forth, speeds resolution, and creates a stable framework for the future. Our team coordinates experts as needed, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and clear expectations. Families report higher satisfaction when goals are defined early and followed through with coordinated action.
Early clarity on financial and parenting goals reduces guesswork and helps set the right path forward. By agreeing on priorities early, both sides can allocate time and resources efficiently, making negotiations smoother and more focused. This leads to quicker resolutions, less stress, and a shared commitment to outcomes that support the family over time.
Durable agreements reflect real world needs and changes. By documenting details with care and coordinating input from financial and parenting specialists, the settlement remains workable even as circumstances evolve. The result is a stable foundation for family life, with clear guidelines and predictable outcomes that reduce future disputes and preserve relationships.
Start by listing your top priorities, including finances, parenting time, and future goals. Share this with your attorney early in the process to shape the strategy. Keep notes of questions, concerns, and deadlines so the sessions stay focused. A clear agenda helps you participate confidently and reach practical outcomes.
During meetings, stay on topic and avoid personal attacks. Practice active listening, summarize points for accuracy, and ask questions to confirm understanding. When emotions rise, take a break and revisit the discussion later. This approach helps maintain progress and makes room for creative solutions.
Choosing collaborative divorce often aligns with goals for privacy, efficiency, and lasting agreements. The process supports families who value direct involvement, respectful dialogue, and practical outcomes. It offers flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and tends to reduce court exposure. By focusing on collaboration, you can preserve relationships while addressing important financial and parenting needs with care.
Engaging a skilled team supports clear communication, careful planning, and a balanced settlement. You receive guidance that respects your pace and priorities while ensuring comprehensive coverage of key issues. The result is a practical roadmap that helps your family move forward with confidence and minimize disruption during a transition.
Common circumstances include assets that require careful valuation, parenting plans that need clear schedules, and disputes over debt allocation. In such cases collaboration provides structure, reduces uncertainty, and creates a concrete framework for resolution. By working with both sides, families can settle faster, preserve privacy, and avoid a lengthy courtroom process that can complicate personal relationships.
Asset valuation and debt distribution require careful coordination and transparent discussion. The collaborative framework helps ensure assets are identified, valued accurately, and divided fairly according to your goals. You will receive detailed explanations of options and timelines, with practical steps to implement agreed terms. This approach reduces ambiguity and supports a smoother transition for both parties.
Parenting plans benefit from clarity on schedules, holidays, and decision making. A comprehensive process addresses concerns about routines, schooling, transportation, and supervision, creating a stable framework for children. Clear agreements help caregivers cooperate effectively and minimize disruption to daily life. We help you document expectations and provide steps to implement arrangements that support your family over time.
In some cases, a limited court filing is necessary to finalize terms that cannot be resolved through negotiation alone. We prepare documents efficiently, review filings for accuracy, and coordinate with court staff to minimize delays. Even when court involvement is necessary, the collaborative groundwork helps present a coherent plan that respects both sides.
From your first consult through final agreement we stand ready to support you. Our team listens to your concerns, explains options clearly, and coordinates a practical path forward. We strive to answer questions promptly, provide steady guidance, and help you feel confident about the decisions that shape your family’s future. You deserve clear direction and reliable support during this transition.
Frankfort Law Group is committed to practical, client focused guidance. We listen first, explain options in plain language, and outline steps that fit your timeline. Our aim is to support you through a private, respectful process that emphasizes fairness, clear communication, and responsible planning. We believe in outcomes that reflect your family dynamics and protect future opportunities.
We collaborate with you to design a settlement that works today and adapts to tomorrow. Our team coordinates with financial professionals, parenting specialists, and support resources as needed. You will receive clear timelines, transparent fees, and consistent updates so you never feel left out of important decisions.
Choosing the right service matters for peace of mind and stability. We focus on clear communication, thoughtful planning, and a cooperative approach that respects privacy and family dynamics. With a steady, supportive team by your side, you can navigate this transition with confidence and maintain focus on what matters most for your children and future.
Our process begins with an initial consultation to understand your goals and outline options. We then move through collaborative sessions, with clear timelines and documented agreements. Along the way, you receive updates on progress, costs, and next steps. The goal is a practical, durable plan that supports your family without unnecessary delay or conflict.
During the initial consult we review your situation, identify priorities, and explain the collaborative path. We discuss required information, gather background on finances, parenting, and goals, and set realistic timelines. This first phase establishes a clear plan, clarifies expectations, and ensures you feel informed. You leave with a practical understanding of how the process will unfold and what you can contribute to a successful result.
Part one focuses on collecting all relevant financial and personal information. We seek clarity on income, assets, debts, parenting responsibilities, and needs. The goal is a comprehensive picture that informs negotiation and planning. You can provide documents, share concerns, and outline priorities so the team can design a fair and workable path forward.
Part two builds a practical strategy. We review options, discuss possible structures for asset division, schedules, and child support or support obligations, and set expectations for timelines. The plan coordinates steps, documents responsibilities, and identifies any potential obstacles. You will receive guidance on how best to present information, respond to choices, and work toward a durable agreement that reflects your priorities and the needs of your family.
Step two centers on negotiation and drafting of the settlement. Attentive listening, factual analysis, and practical proposals guide discussions. We work to reach a balanced agreement on property, finances, and parenting. Drafts are refined through collaborative sessions and reviewed for clarity, consistency, and compliance with applicable law. The goal is a clear document that both sides can implement moving forward.
Mediation sessions help resolve differences with guidance from a trained facilitator. The focus remains on practical solutions, with aims to preserve relationships and protect key interests. Participants share information, test proposals, and adjust plans toward mutual acceptance. This phase emphasizes fairness, transparency, and collaborative problem solving while staying aligned with the agreed timelines.
Finalizing the settlement involves formalizing the written agreement, ensuring all terms are clear, enforceable, and ready for implementation. We review risk, confirm schedules, and align financial orders. Once both sides sign, the document provides a roadmap for the future and reduces the likelihood of future disputes. The goal is a stable resolution that supports your family long term.
After signing, the plan is implemented with monitoring and adjustments as needed. We help finalize financial orders, create time sensitive parenting arrangements, and provide support if circumstances change. Our aim is to ensure the agreement remains workable and transparent, with a clear path for modifications if life evolves. You gain ongoing guidance to sustain stability over time.
Occasionally filings may be required to formalize orders or enforce terms. We prepare documents efficiently, review filings for accuracy, and coordinate with court staff to minimize delays. Even when court involvement is necessary, the collaborative groundwork helps present a coherent plan that respects both sides.
As life changes, so may plans. We outline mechanisms for modifying custody schedules, decision making, and financial arrangements in a fair and practical way. The process emphasizes ongoing communication, regular review points, and mutual consent for adjustments. You will have a clear process to update agreements while keeping the focus on the children best interests.
At the Frankfort Law Group, we take great pride in our commitment to personal service. Clients come to us because they have problems, and they depend upon us to help them find solutions. We take these obligations seriously. When you meet with us, we know that you are only doing so because you need help. Since we started our firm in northeast Illinois, we have focused on providing each of our clients with personal attention. You do not have to be afraid to tell us your story. We are not here to judge you or make you feel ashamed for seeking help. Our only goal is to help you get results and move past your current legal problems.
At the Frankfort Law Group, we take great pride in our commitment to personal service. Clients come to us because they have problems, and they depend upon us to help them find solutions. We take these obligations seriously. When you meet with us, we know that you are only doing so because you need help. Since we started our firm in northeast Illinois, we have focused on providing each of our clients with personal attention. You do not have to be afraid to tell us your story. We are not here to judge you or make you feel ashamed for seeking help. Our only goal is to help you get results and move past your current legal problems.
If negotiations reach an impasse, the professionals involved may withdraw from the collaborative process and you may pursue traditional options. The intent is to preserve privacy and minimize disruption while ensuring both sides have a voice. The outcome aims to be fair and comprehensive, addressing the key issues in a way that supports your family now and into the future. You receive guidance to navigate decisions with confidence and practical insight.
If needed, a neutral facilitator can help guide conversations and keep discussions productive. The plan is designed to be flexible enough to adjust as family circumstances evolve, while providing a clear framework that both sides can follow. The goal is to minimize surprises for children and support smooth transitions between households, with a focus on consistent routines and reliable communication.
It is possible that certain issues require court involvement if a resolution cannot be reached through collaborative means. In such cases the team can assist with transitions and ensure necessary filings are completed efficiently. The overall approach remains focused on privacy, respect, and practical solutions, with an emphasis on preserving relationships and minimizing disruption to family life.
If something is unclear, we can help you determine what documentation is needed and why. You may also receive worksheets or checklists to ensure you have what is required for the collaborative process. The goal is to reduce back and forth and keep negotiations moving forward efficiently, while still giving you time to review and reflect on key decisions.
Our fee structure is designed to be fair and clear, with options for different levels of service based on your needs. We discuss payment terms at the outset and provide ongoing communication about any changes. The goal is to avoid surprises and keep you informed about the financial aspects of the process as you move toward a resolution.
In some situations, collaborative work may still be possible with strict safety protocols and separate communications as needed. The decision depends on the specifics of the case and the safety plan developed with professionals. We focus on maintaining a respectful environment while ensuring that all parties feel secure throughout the process.
We strive to maintain open lines of communication and prompt responses. If you have scheduling constraints, we can adjust sessions and provide written materials to keep you informed. The aim is to keep you engaged without overwhelming you, while preserving the collaborative spirit and pace of negotiations so you can participate effectively.
While some cases may take longer, especially with complex finances or sensitive parenting matters, we work to maintain momentum with clear goals and structured meetings. You will receive updates on timelines and decisions, with contingency plans if additional rounds of negotiation are needed. The focus remains on achieving a durable agreement that supports your family.
It is common to reassess goals and gather new information before re engaging in another round of negotiations or different dispute resolution methods. We can provide guidance on potential timelines, costs, and changes to consider. You retain control over how you proceed, with support to help you make informed choices for your family.
If you are unsure how to handle a specific change, we provide guidance on options and next steps. You can discuss anticipated adjustments during sessions and plan accordingly. Our goal is to keep you informed and prepared so that transitions remain smooth for children and both parties.