Illinois Divorce Mediation Cost Calculator

Estimate sessions and total mediation cost in Illinois, with savings vs. a contested divorce.

Illinois divorces typically cost 28% less than the national average of $12,900.

Mediation in Illinois

Avg. cost per session
$275
Mediation required
No
Avg contested cost
$13,000 - $45,000
Equal parenting presumption
No

Mediation details

Locked to Illinois on this page.

Mediation type *
Number of issues to resolve *
Do you have children? *
Estimated number of sessions *
Are both parties willing participants? *

This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.

Mediation in Illinois - Frequently Asked Questions

How much does divorce mediation cost in Illinois?

Mediation in Illinois typically costs about $275 per session, with most cases requiring 3 to 10 sessions. That puts the typical full-mediation range at $825 to $2,750, usually split between both parties. Court-connected mediation programs in Illinois are often available at reduced rates, and some counties subsidize the first session.

Is mediation required in Illinois?

No, Illinois does not require mediation as a prerequisite to filing. Courts often encourage it, and judges in many counties have discretion to order mediation on contested issues. Programs at the courthouse are often free or reduced-fee for low-income filers.

How long do mediation sessions last in Illinois?

Most mediation sessions in Illinois run 90 minutes to 2 hours. Full-day mediations (4 to 8 hours) are also common when both parties have attorneys present and want to settle multiple issues in one sitting. Per-session pricing covers the standard length; longer sessions are billed pro rata or at a higher full-day rate.

Do attorneys participate in Illinois mediation?

It depends on the format. Court-connected mediation in Illinois usually does not include attorneys at the table. Private mediation can be either attorney-assisted (each spouse brings counsel) or attorney-free. Even when attorneys are not present in the room, most mediating spouses have a consulting attorney review the proposed agreement before signing.

What if mediation does not resolve everything in Illinois?

Partial agreements still help. Illinois courts will accept a partial settlement and try only the remaining issues, which is faster and cheaper than litigating from scratch.

This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.