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Rancho Mirage Divorce Mediation

For over 30 years A Fair Way Mediation has been helping couples in Rancho Mirage with divorce mediation services. We are local to Rancho Mirage and take pride in helping residents in this area that are in need of a peaceful and affordable divorce to get the help they need. We work as a neutral 3rd party to help you and your spouse navigate the complex issues that can come with a divorce, such as child support, property division, spousal support, and any other issues that may affect the outcome of your divorce. When both parties work together, not only will you save money, but the divorce will come to a peaceful ending.

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

619-702-9174

Here at A Fair Way Mediation, we have a commitment to you and your spouse to help mitigate any emotional and stressful court proceedings that may occur should lawyers be brought in to the mix. The same issues can be discussed and often times the same outcome, at a fraction of the price! Mediation also helps keep things peaceful, we aren't here to take either side but work towards a solution that is good for both parties.

Get Divorce Help

The team at A Fair Way Mediation is not only skilled, but we are compassionate and trained to work as an impartial facilitator of proceedings. We will work with both you and your spouse through all issues, no matter how complex they may seem! With divorce mediation, it is smart to think outside the box. With effective communication and problem-solving, we will allow you both to get creative to have an end goal in mind that will work for both of you post-divorce.

Common Issues in a Divorce

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 even Pet Mediation!

Benefits Mediation Provides

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

Cost and Time

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.

Peaceful Environment

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 Key Articles

Managing Fears During a Divorce

Excerpt: As with any divorce situation, fear plays a very important role in each of the individuals going through a divorce. It also can be a difficult obstacle to a peaceful resolution and mutually beneficial final agreement. During the early stages of a divorce, individuals struggle with the thought of divorce because the world they have been accustomed to is about to change. This is especially relevant when there is one person in the relationship who doesn't want to divorce.

VIRTUAL DIVORCE – MEDIATION HAS IT COVERED

In today's growing world of technology, it is not uncommon for A Fair Way Mediation to help couples with divorce mediation services in a "virtual" setting. We have successfully helped 100s of couples obtain the same results as they would in person, via an online setting such as messenger chat, zoom video, skype, and good ol' fashioned conference calls. This works especially well when either couples are aren't able to get along well in person, or they are no longer living near each other and need to complete the divorce virtually.

MEDIATION - YOUR TICKET TO A PEACEFUL AND FAIR DIVORCE

Mediation offers a peaceful alternative to the often aggressive and stressful courtroom battles. It’s also the fastest, least expensive and most efficient way to work through the divorce process. Mediation requires a professional mediator who acts as a Neutral Third Party throughout the divorce process. A skilled mediator actively listens to both spouses, and guides the parties through the divorce process with the ultimate goal of a fair, reasonable and equitable Marital Settlement Agreement which is acceptable to the couple.

Divorce Mediation FAQs

How does divorce mediation differ from traditional divorce proceedings?

There are several ways that divorce mediation is different from a traditional divorce. To start, mediation involves a neutral 3rd party mediator that facilitates the communication and negotiation between the divorcing couple with the goal of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. In comparison, traditional divorce proceedings usually involve each individual retaining their own lawyer and engaging in an adversarial legal process. Mediation is less formal and more flexible than court proceedings that come with a traditional divorce process.

Who can benefit from divorce mediation?

Divorce mediation benefits a variety of individuals seeking a peaceful way to resolve their marital disputes. Couples who are willing to communicate to find mutually agreeable solutions can benefit greatly from mediation. Mediation provides a non-adversarial alternative to litigation and gives spouses control over the outcome of their divorce. It can also benefit parents who prioritize the well-being of their children as it promotes effective co-parenting and minimizes the emotional impact on the family. It also benefits individuals who value privacy and a faster resolution to divorce proceedings.

How long does the divorce mediation process typically take?

How long the divorce mediation process takes is challenging to provide an exact timeframe since each case is unique. The process generally takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the issues and the couple’s ability to communicate effectively.

What issues can be addressed in divorce mediation?

Issues that can be addressed in divorce mediation include the division of assets and debts, child custody, visitation agreements, spousal support, property division, and more. A trained mediator will be able to handle any issues that need to be worked out during divorce proceedings.

Do both parties need to be present for divorce mediation?

In divorce mediation, the presence of both parties is preferred and encouraged because it allows for direct communication and negotiation between the couple seeking a divorce. The goal of mediation is to promote open dialogue and collaboration in resolving issues related to the separation which is why it’s recommended that both are present. There are alternative solutions if one spouse or the other can’t physically make it including phone conferences and video conference calls.

Is divorce mediation suitable for high-conflict cases?

Mediation is generally effective for couples seeking a peaceful and cooperative resolution, while high-conflict cases often involve deep-seated animosity, power imbalances, and an inability to communicate in a constructive manner. In these situations, adversarial dynamics can hinder the mediation process and make it a challenge to reach a mutually agreeable outcome.

Will the mediator provide legal advice during the process?

No, a mediator does not provide legal advice during the mediation process. Mediators work to help parties reach mutually agreeable solutions and promote effective communication, but do not offer specific legal guidance or advocate for any individual’s interests. If an individual is seeking independent legal advice, it’s recommended to seek an attorney so they fully understand their rights and obligations under the legal framework.

Can divorce mediation help with co-parenting arrangements?

Yes, divorce mediation can help with co-parenting arrangements. Mediation is a collaborative process that allows divorcing parents to work together and make decisions regarding their children’s well-being. A trained mediator will help parents develop a co-parenting plan that addresses various aspects including custody schedules, decision-making authority, communication methods, and dispute resolution solutions.

How does divorce mediation handle complex financial matters?

When it comes to financial matters, divorce mediation uses a systematic approach to provide fair and equitable outcomes. The mediator will facilitate discussions and guide couples through a comprehensive analysis of their financial situation including the gathering of financial documents such as bank statements, tax returns, and property valuations. The mediator will then assist in identifying and valuing marital assets and liabilities (businesses, investments, pensions, debts). This will help the couple explore options and alternatives while considering factors like division of property, spousal support, child support, and tax implications.

Are there any situations where divorce mediation may not be appropriate?

There are situations where divorce mediation may not be appropriate, one such circumstance is when there is a significant power imbalance between the spouses such as domestic violence or abuse. Additionally, if one party is unwilling to negotiate in good fair or has a history of dishonesty, mediation may not be a suitable option. One last situation is if there are complex financial matters or contentious child custody disputes, it may require the expertise of an attorney or court intervention.

About A Fair Way Mediation

A Fair Way Mediation has helped couples to mediate a successful and positive divorce for over 30 years. Our experience includes success with domestic partnerships, traditional, military, same sex, and alternative relationships. Our mediators are skilled in all the technologies of virtual mediation and will guide you through the process. Mediation also works non-criminal disputes such as landlord tenant, family, and HOA issues. We mediate issues throughout Palm Springs, Riverside County and San Diego.