Will Divorce Mediation Work For You?

If your marriage is ending, you may be wondering what your rights are around everything from spousal support to property division.

Dealing with a marriage ending is hard enough; navigating the legal system and sorting through all of the information out there can be overwhelming.

We hope this article provides you with some starting points on divorce mediation in California.

A mediator is a professional who can help you and your spouse reach an agreement without having to go to court. You may be able to meet with your mediating attorney in-person or via video or phone.

This attorney serves as a neutral party, providing a safe space where you can better understand your options related to finances, property, child custody and child support/alimony.

Rather than fighting about the issues that are dividing you, the mediator can help facilitate the conversation to resolve problems and move ahead. During divorce mediation in California, the professional mediator will listen to each person, and make an assessment based on their responses.

There are no set number of sessions when it comes to mediation; you may need one or several to come to an agreement that everyone is satisfied with.

There are a number of advantages to seeking the advice and expertise of an attorney who specializes in divorce mediation in California, including:

• It’s confidential, unlike divorces in court, where documents become public record. When you work with a mediator, you can openly discuss personal issues in a private space, rather than an open courtroom.
• Your costs are lower. While attorney fees vary, a mediator can cost you less than the average divorce, which averages around $15,000. Many estimates put mediation at about 10% of the cost of going to court. However, keep in mind that this process only works in the case of uncontested divorces.
• It can be more peaceful for the whole family, because the ex-spouses aren’t fighting over property or support in a courtroom or in front of the kids.
• You may have more control over the outcome. When you litigate, the decisions about your future are in the hands of the judge. A mediator may have more time to get to know you, and you to get to know him or her, which could lead to a different outcome.

Even if you choose mediation, it’s important to know that going to court is still an option. If you aren’t satisfied with the mediation process or can’t come to an agreement with your ex-spouse, you can retain an attorney, and everything from the mediation sessions will remain confidential.

Choosing a mediator vs. a divorce attorney isn’t a decision to be made lightly. At A Family Law Firm, Inc. both services are our specialty.

We’ve guided numerous couples towards a fair resolution, and we can help you decide which route is best for you. Contact us to learn more.