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Palm Springs Divorce Mediation

If you and your spouse are looking for divorce help and considering divorce mediation, A Fair Way Mediation has helped thousands of couples for over 30 years throughout Palm Springs with divorce mediation services. Our offices are conveniently located in Rancho Mirage and we serve all of the Coachella Valley / Palm Springs area helping couples to reach a peaceful and affordable divorce so they can move on with their lives.

We take pride in assisting couples through their divorce to allow them to move on with their lives in a peaceful manner. If a traditional divorce lawyer is used, the fees can exceed $25,000 and up, whereas a divorce mediator the average mediated divorce costs between $3500 to $7500 (depending on the complexity of the case). This is why couples decide the divorce mediation is the correct path, knowing that even with spending thousands of dollars on lawyer fees, the same outcome will be reached with a divorce mediator.

We offer a free consultation, fill out our "Start Evaluation" form or give us a call to discuss your needs!

619-702-9174

We understand that starting the divorce process is very stressful and a big decision in your lives. But deciding how to get the divorce is very important as well. Divorce mediation provides a productive and cost-effective way to resolve issues and come to an agreement to dissolve the marriage peacefully.

What Is The Goal Of Mediation?

Ultimately the goal of mediation is to reach a mutual agreemnt between the couple on how to proceed in life. Whether the need to discuss child support, spousal support, property division, or any other of the complex issues that come with a divorce. It is common that couples elect to continue mediating issues after the completion of the divorce. We are adept at helping you both navigate the issues at hand so that each side has a chance to speak while removing the argumentative feelings that divorce can create.

Divorce Issues We Can Help With

Every couples situation is different, which is why we don't take a one size fits all approach. Some divorces are very complex involving children, businesses, and multiple properties, and some are very easy to navigate as both couples already have a general idea as to how they want to proceed.

Child Support
Property Division
Retirement Distribution
Spousal Support
And evenPet Mediation!

Is Mediation Right For You?

Every case is different, and we understand this. We don't take a one way approach and assume that every couple has the same issues and need the same outcome. It can vary so much and some divorces are just simply more complex than others! The team at A Fair Way Mediation will assess the unique factors of your case and help you both to achieve the best outcome for you and your family.

The mediation process can be very effective for both parties that are able to cooperate and communicate durin the process. Our team understands how the laws can apply to your situations, but we can not provide legal advice. We can also discuss how your case might play out in court should it reach that point. Our goal is to keep you out of court and not have to deal with the stresses in court, but also leave the fate of your marriage in a judge's hands.

Key Benefits of Mediation

There are a variety of reasons to choose mediation over litigation, but the 2 most common benefits why couples choose mediation include:

Cost-Effective

Many couples choose mediation over the litigation route because of the affordable costs. With litigation, each side has to get their own lawyer and these fees can easily exceed $25,000+ (per person), depending on how long it will take for lawyers to negotiate. Couples often aren't aware the fees they are being charged by a lawyer until the process is complete and can be blindsided by a bill that exceeds what they were expecting. Mediation is a straightforward approach with no hidden fees. The average cost of a mediated divorce ranges between $3500 - $7500 depending on the complexity of the case and the couple's ability to communicate effectively. This fee is also split between the couple which makes it a very cost-effective solution.

Couples Don't Go to Court

Divorce can already be stressful, and having to go to court can make this stress grow. With mediation, all discussions and agreements are settled out of court. Once the agreement has been finalized, the couple will submit the paperwork to the court for review and approval. Another disadvantage when couples go to court is that the proceedings become public record, but with divorce mediation all discussions and the final agreement are kept private.

Divorce Mediation FAQs

How does divorce mediation work?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

Divorce Mediation Key Articles

WHAT SHOULD COUPLES EXPECT FROM DIVORCE MEDIATION

Excerpt: When you have both reached the decision to part ways and get a divorce, it can be one of the most significant portions of a person’s entire life. So many factors to consider such as “property division”, “child custody”, and even “pet custody!” There are so many potentially complex issues it can get very overwhelming.

There are always terrible stories about divorce and we are aware they can get very contentious and room for conflict, but divorce mediation does a terrific job of creating a calm situation where communication can bring both parties together.

IN A CALIFORNIA DIVORCE, WHAT ISSUES CAN DIVORCE MEDIATION COVER?

Excerpt: Quite often, couples in California are unaware of the divorce mediation route compared to a traditional divorce litigation route in California. But they are often surprised to hear that divorce mediation can help you with all issues of a divorce at a fraction of the price for a traditional divorce.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A DIVORCE MEDIATOR?

Excerpt: If you and your spouse are looking for a less adversarial way to finalize your divorce, then using a divorce mediator might be the right path for you and your spouse. In essence, a Palm Springs divorce mediator is a neutral 3rd party who is trained to help you and your spouse through the divorce process without having to enter the court process and have a judge decide on the final outcome. The goal is to keep you out of court in a peaceful setting to resolve all issues and help you both move on with your lives.

Divorce Mediation Education

What is Divorce Mediation?

How Mediation Saves Money

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.

If you have questions or would like to start the process, please fil out our "Start Evaluation" form or give us a call!