Brian James Biography

Divorce and Family Mediator in Chicago, IL

Brian James is a seasoned professional in divorce and family mediation who works with clients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area and into Southeastern Wisconsin. He is the founder and principal mediator of C.E.L. & Associates, Inc., a practice he began in late 2005 with the goal of helping individuals and families resolve separation and divorce issues without litigation.

Brian earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Northern Illinois University in 1994 and later completed formal training in Mediation and Conflict Resolution at Northwestern University.

Before focusing on mediation full-time, Brian spent the first decade of his career working in the criminal justice system. In that role, he assisted families impacted by domestic violence and divorce in navigating conflict and rebuilding after difficult life changes, experiences that continue to inform the way he supports clients today.

In his mediation practice, Brian emphasizes a client-centered process that encourages cooperation and problem-solving outside of court. He helps clients work through their issues in a way that respects the contributions of all parties and cultivates skills, such as empathy, effective communication, and independent decision-making, that can be used beyond mediation.

Brian has been married to his high school sweetheart since 1996, and they have two sons.