Erin Birt, JD, CADC Biography

ADR Experience

I have been a mediator since <strong>2004</strong>, helping families resolve conflicts with practical, efficient, and respectful solutions. Over the course of my career, I have successfully mediated <strong>600+ matters</strong>, specializing in parenting and divorce mediation. My approach emphasizes minimizing court involvement while addressing the unique needs of each family. <hr /> <h4><strong>Key Areas of Expertise</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>Mediation</strong>: Crafting child-centered parenting plans that promote cooperation and long-term stability. Facilitating equitable financial resolutions, including asset division, spousal maintenance, and child support.</li> <li><strong>Resolution-Focused Divorce</strong>: Utilizing the Restorative Divorce® process to help families transition with clarity and respect.</li> <li><strong>Co-Parenting Skills Development</strong>: Assisting parents in building effective communication strategies for smoother collaboration.</li> </ul> <hr /> <h4><strong>Professional Highlights</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>Restorative Divorce® Creator</strong>: Developed and trademarked a mediation process focused on minimizing conflict and empowering families to work toward positive resolutions.</li> <li><strong>Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)</strong>: Brings a unique perspective to cases involving substance use or emotional challenges, ensuring sensitive and effective mediation strategies.</li> <li><strong>Extensive Courtroom Knowledge</strong>: With over 20 years of family law experience, I understand the complexities of litigation, which informs my ability to guide families toward out-of-court resolutions.</li> </ul> <hr /> <h4><strong>Notable Achievements</strong></h4> <ul> <li>Successfully mediated complex parenting and financial disputes, including high-conflict cases.</li> <li>Recognized for balancing compassion and practicality in ADR settings.</li> <li>Committed to ongoing professional development in family mediation and conflict resolution techniques.</li> </ul> <hr /> <h4><strong>Commitment to ADR</strong></h4> My mission is to provide families with a supportive, respectful environment to address disputes and find sustainable solutions. I am: <ol> <li>A member and board member of the Mediation Council of Illinois.</li> <li>A mediation skills trainer for various Illinois bar associations and guest trainer at the Mosten Guthrie Mediation Training.</li> <li>Dedicated to achieving 40+ hours of continuing education each year in family law, divorce mediation, and substance abuse counseling.</li> </ol> Whether through in-person or virtual mediation sessions, I focus on helping clients move forward with confidence and clarity.

Approach

At the heart of my practice is the <a href="https://www.birtlaw.com/services"><strong>Restorative Divorce® process</strong></a>, a trademarked approach designed to minimize court involvement and foster constructive solutions for families navigating divorce. This process combines my legal expertise with a family-centered perspective to address both the emotional and practical aspects of separation. <h4><strong>How Restorative Divorce® Works</strong>:</h4> <ol> <li><strong>Individualized Guidance</strong>: Each family’s needs are unique, and I tailor mediation sessions to address specific parenting, financial, and emotional goals.</li> <li><strong>Conflict De-Escalation</strong>: By creating a supportive environment, I help families navigate difficult conversations with respect and clarity, ensuring that all voices are heard.</li> <li><strong>Future-Focused Resolutions</strong>: The process emphasizes creating agreements that are practical, equitable, and sustainable for the long term.</li> </ol> <h4><strong>Core Principles of Restorative Divorce®</strong>:</h4> <ol> <li><strong>Clarity</strong>: Clear communication and step-by-step guidance help families reduce uncertainty and stress.</li> <li><strong>Respect</strong>: Sessions are designed to foster mutual respect and understanding, even in challenging circumstances.</li> <li><strong>Efficiency</strong>: The process streamlines decision-making, saving time and resources compared to court litigation.</li> <li><strong>Child-Centered Solutions</strong>: Prioritizing the well-being of children ensures agreements that promote stability and long-term success.</li> </ol> <h4><strong>A Better Way Forward</strong>:</h4> With over 20 years of experience, I have seen firsthand the toll traditional litigation can take on families. The Restorative Divorce® process offers an alternative—a practical and compassionate way to address disputes, preserve relationships, and create a positive foundation for the future. Whether through virtual or in-person mediation, my approach focuses on guiding families toward resolutions that meet their unique needs and empower them to move forward with confidence.

Areas of Practice

Additional Services

Languages Spoken

• English

References

• Available Upon Request

Liability Insurance

Yes