Many divorced couples have stories of what a nightmare the divorce process can be. Rest assured, though, there is a population of couples who go through a divorce and come out unscathed. They may even still remain friendly with their former spouse. Increasingly, Illinois couples are participating in mediation and negotiation in order to reach an amicable solution.

Couples who are interested in dissolving a marriage in a cordial way are working together outside the courtroom. Instead of leaving decisions up to a judge, a couple can participate in mediation and voluntary negotiations in a more active manner that can lead to a win-win situation. Additionally, this type of solution may be faster and less expensive.

This form of collaborative law still tackles issues such as property division, alimony and child support. Parties meet to develop a separation agreement together that addresses these issues. Allowing both sides to reach a voluntary agreement in a divorce can be a positive way of resolving differences.

While it may seem rare, especially in Hollywood, marriages can end amicably and may be the result of mediation and negotiations. Back in October, actress Zooey Deschanel and her rocker husband Ben Gibbard separated. After a few months of separation, the couple ultimately decided to file for divorce.

The actress maintains that the couple remains friendly and everything is just fine, and details that have emerged from the divorce support that. There is no sensationalism. The couple led a modest lifestyle and they have no children.

Thus far, the divorce seems to be amicable. It is not known whether or not the couple sought mediation assistance in their divorce, but if they did this could be an example of how agreeable the process can be.

Source: People, "Zooey Deschanel Files for Divorce from Ben Gibbard," Dahvi Shira, Jan. 4, 2012