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A Fair Way
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Orange County Divorce Mediator

As a trained divorce mediator with over 4 decades of experience helping couples throughout Orange County and the entire Southern California region, A Fair Way Mediation has helped 100s of couples to obtain a peaceful and more importantly, affordable divorce. Finding the right divorce mediator is important, we have experience in some of the most complex cases that can be found and successfully helped both couples to come to a mutually beneficial agreement OUTSIDE OF COURT. Privacy is important and couples choose to use a divorce mediator because all discussions and the final agreement are settled out of court and remain private.

We offer a no cost consultation, please fill out our "Start Evaluation" form or give us a call!

619-702-9174

Divorce Mediator Benefits


There are a variety of reasons why couples choose to work with a divorce mediator, here are just a few!

Cost-Effective


Divorce mediation is usually less expensive than litigation because it involves fewer legal fees, court costs, and other expenses. Mediators typically charge an hourly rate that is much lower than the hourly rate charged by attorneys, and the entire mediation process can be completed in just a few sessions.

Collaborative


Mediation allows both parties to collaborate and work together to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Unlike litigation, where each side is pitted against the other in an adversarial process, mediation allows both parties to express their needs and concerns, and to work together to find a solution that works for everyone.

Confidentiality


Mediation is a private process, which means that the details of the divorce are not made public. This is especially important if there are sensitive issues or personal information that the parties do not want to be disclosed. Mediators are also bound by confidentiality agreements, so they cannot share any information that is discussed during the mediation process.

Issues We Help Navigate


Child Support
Property Division
Retirement Distribution
Spousal Support
And even Pet Mediation!

Divorce Mediation FAQs

How does divorce mediation work?down-arrow

Divorce mediation is a collaborative approach to a divorce aimed at helping couples resolve their marital disputes and reach a mutually beneficial agreement without going to court. The mediation process involves a neutral 3rd party known as a “mediator”, who facilitates communication between the divorcing spouses. During the mediation sessions, each person will have the opportunity to express their concerns, needs, and interest to various aspects of the divorce such as spousal support, child custody, division of assets, and even pets. The goal of mediation is to identify a common ground by exploring potential solutions and guiding couples toward reaching a fair and agreeable settlement.

Is divorce mediation legally binding?down-arrow

Divorce mediation itself does not have the legal authority to bind parties to an agreement. The mediation process encourages open dialogue and negotiations, allowing couples to develop a settlement that address their specific issues and needs. After the agreement is reached, it is drafted into a legal document submitted to a court for review. At this stage, after court approval, that the mediated agreement becomes legally binding and enforceable.

Do both parties have to agree to participate in divorce mediation?down-arrow

Yes, divorce mediation requires the agreement and consent of both parties. Divorce mediation is a voluntary process with the goal to assist couples in resolving their divorce-related issues peacefully. The voluntary nature of mediation prioritizes the importance of both parties willing to participate and being committed to the process in order to achieve a successful outcome.

How much does divorce mediation cost?down-arrow

Depending on the complexity of the case, the location, and the mediator’s fees, the average divorce mediation costs between $3500 to $7500. It’s important to note this is just an estimate as the actual price can be higher or lower depending on circumstances.

Can children be involved in divorce mediation?down-arrow

Yes, children can be involved in the divorce mediation process. Divorce mediation primarily focuses on resolving issues between the couple, the well-being and best interests of the children are also extremely important consideration. In most cases, mediators encourage children to be involved to express their feelings, concerns, and preferences, giving them the opportunity to have a say in decisions that directly affect their lives. NOTE: This is also dependent on the child’s age and the parent’s preferences.

Can the agreements reached in divorce mediation be modified in the future?down-arrow

Yes, the agreement reached in a divorce mediation CAN be modified in the future under certain circumstances. Life circumstances can change over time, requiring the need to modify the original agreement. Modifications may be requested if there are substantial changes in financial situations, employment, or significant changes in the needs of the parties involved. Any modifications to the agreement would require the consent of both parties or approved from the court, depending on the jurisdiction and the type of modifications being sought.

Are attorneys involved in divorce mediation?down-arrow

Yes, attorneys can be involved in divorce mediation. While divorce mediation is a collaborative process with the goal of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement, attorneys can play a role in guiding and advising their clients throughout the mediation process. Attorneys can provide legal counsel, explain the rights of each party, and help to prepare the legal documents after the agreement has been reached.

What are the potential drawbacks or limitations of divorce mediation?down-arrow

There are a few limitations to the mediation process. To start, mediation relies on the willingness of both parties to cooperate and negotiate in good faith. If one or both individuals are unwilling to compromise, the mediation process may become unproductive. Power imbalances between spouses such as differences in financial resources can hinder the fairness of mediation. If there is a history of domestic violence or significant conflict between the spouses, mediation may not be appropriate or safe because it relies on open communication.

Is divorce mediation suitable for same-sex couples?down-arrow

Yes, divorce mediation is suitable for same-sex couples. Same-sex couples face the same challenges as opposite-sex couples when it comes to divorce, such as child custody, property division, and financial matters. When it comes to the divorce mediation process, it’s the same approach as a “traditional” marriage.

Can divorce mediation be used in cases involving domestic violence or abuse?down-arrow

In cases involving domestic violence or abuse, divorce mediation may not be a suitable or appropriate option because safety concerns associated with such situations can make it difficult for the victim to express their concerns without fear. If couples wish to continue to proceed with the mediation process, it is recommended that virtual meetings be held, or the mediator works as the go-between to facilitate communication.

Trending Mediation Articles


The Benefits of Divorce Mediation: A Win-Win Approach

Divorce is undoubtedly one of the most challenging life experiences a person can go through. Emotions run high, and the process can be emotionally and financially draining. However, there is an alternative to the traditional, adversarial divorce process: divorce mediation. This approach focuses on collaboration rather than confrontation, making it a win-win solution for many couples facing divorce. Let's explore the numerous benefits of divorce mediation and why it's an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking an amicable and fair resolution.

Collaborate or Mediate.. That is the Question!

Most people who want a divorce would like it to be easy and affordable. Couples, especially those with children, want a divorce that is acceptable to them, their children, and their family members as well. Litigation can drag on and on and is expensive. When there is children involved, couples most likely put their children’s needs first and choose the type of divorce that leads to a reasonable and acceptable resolution without any time-wasting theatrics. Collaborative or Mediation divorce are often successful for families that want a straightforward and kind divorce that keeps a couple, with or without children, on good terms.

BEYOND COURTROOM DRAMA: WHY DIVORCE MEDIATION WORKS

Divorce is a challenging, emotionally taxing process that often conjures images of contentious courtroom battles, escalating tensions, and prolonged legal procedures. However, there exists an alternative approach that has gained traction and proven to be highly effective: divorce mediation. While courtroom drama might be the default depiction in media and popular culture, divorce mediation offers a more peaceful and less adversarial path toward dissolution. Let's take a look as to why divorce mediation stands out as a preferred method and how it differs from the traditional courtroom process.

About A Fair Way Mediation


As one of Southern California's top divorce mediators, A Fair Way Mediation has helped 100s of couples to obtain an affordable and peaceful divorce without going to court. We save our clients thousands of dollars in litigation fees and specialize in all forms of divorce mediation including military divorce and same sex divorce mediation. Our divorce mediators are skilled in all the facets of mediation and will guide you through the process. We provide divorce mediation services for couples throughout San Diego, Palm Springs, Riverside County and Rancho Mirage, Temecula, and Cathedral City.

We offer a no cost consultation, please fill out our "Start Evaluation" form or give us a call!

619-702-9174

2 Locations - San Diego and Palm Springs

San Diego

Coachella Valley