If you’re going through separation and divorce, there’s something Chicago mediator Brian James wants you to know: “If you really care about your children’s best interests, and you have a desire to be amicable, you need to give mediation a try,” he says. “You have absolutely nothing to lose — and everything to gain. I've never worked with a couple who hasn't benefited from mediation."

Brian should know — prior to becoming a mediator with C.E.L and Associates, he trained in conflict management and worked within the court system serving families experiencing domestic violence. After 12 years of witnessing the physical, emotional, psychological, and financial drain caused by litigation, he decided to focus on helping divorcing couples end their marriage as humane and civilized as possible. Brian has the skills and experience to help his clients avoid the bitter emotional pain that can accompany divorce and assists them with moving on with their lives.

With offices conveniently located throughout the Chicagoland area, he makes a policy of scheduling sessions that are most convenient for his clients. “Divorce is hard enough without worrying about price, location and scheduling. “ he says.

Brian takes a streamlined approach to client service. He will ask for an opening statement from both spouses, to determine where they are in the process, what they’ve tried to talk about, what they’ve agreed to, and what problems may exist. He asks questions throughout the process too, including: "What's most important to you? What do you think you want to do first?" Based    on their answers, Brian is able to predict where the challenges will be as the case proceeds.

This ability to “read” people is a skill Brian uses daily as a mediator. “It allows me to ‘reality-test’ my clients,” he says, admitting that he can be blunt at times. “Some mediators might hold back. I usually just tell them the way it is.” Based on his past experience in the court system, Brian can quickly ascertain if one of his clients is saying something in front of the other out of spite. He confronts them if this is the case, and asks them to explain their reasoning. This approach allows clients to realize that he is functioning as a neutral third party. “I don't need to know the reasons why a couple is divorcing," he explains. "I'm here to assist them in working out an equitable divorce agreement, no matter who is to "blame" for the divorce.”

Brian’s candor also helps make mediation less stressful in the long run — and it provides cost efficiencies.  “I tell clients if you just want to bicker back and forth, it's a waste of your time and money to come to me,” he says. If counseling or therapy is in order, Brian can refer couples to therapists and coaches. He can also provide resources for financial experts and divorce attorneys, if necessary. Through mediation, Brian helps his clients find a peaceful resolution to their divorce. He also gives them important skills they’ll need for future conflicts. “If they’re able to refer back to what they learn in mediation, I will have achieved my objective,” he says.

For more information, or to book an appointment, please contact Brian at any one of the locations listed below. Payment plans are offered; mention Divorce Magazine and receive a $100 discount off the first session.

Brian James
Divorce Mediation and Consulting Services

bjames@celandassociates.com
www.yourdivorce.org
(312) 524-5829
(847) 249-0570 (fax)

Brian James has written the following articles:

FAQs:

• "What is divorce mediation? Is a mediated agreement binding?"
• "What training does someone need to become a divorce mediator? What should I know about a divorce mediator before choosing one?"
• "If I use divorce mediation, will I need to go to court? Will I need a divorce lawyer?"
• "How long will divorce mediation take? How long are the sessions?"
• "What information must I disclose to my spouse and to the mediator? What is discussed during divorce mediation?"
• "Will we meet weekly with the mediator? Who is present at the divorce mediation sessions?"
• "How much will divorce mediation cost?"