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Riverside Divorce Mediator

If you and your spouse are looking to get a divorce and considering mediation as an option, here at A Fair Way Mediation, we've helped couples in Riverside and throughout Southern California with a peaceful and affordable divorce for over 3 decades! We understand that getting a divorce can be stressful, especially if litigation comes in to affect. Our team is trained to minimize the stress involved and help you both work through the complex issues that can come with a divorce.

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

619-985-2357

There are a wide variety of reasons that couples choose Riverside divorce mediation as opposed to litigation, not only does it cut out the stress, it is far less expensive and it willl keep you out of court! We can help you navigate many of the complex issues such as property division, child support, and even pet mediation amongst a wide array of complex issues.

Divorce lawyers and attorneys typically charge a retainer plus an hourly fee, you aren't usually aware of the hours being built up in "billable" hours until you get your bills and you will be surpirsed to see how expensive this process can be! It is common for each individual to pay around $25,000 in lawyer fees, whereas with mediation, the average cost is $3,500 - $7,000 (split between the couple), depending on the complexity of the issues.

Divorce Mediator Services

When the litigation route is taken, divorces can last months to become finalized. Not only waiting for the communication time between lawyers, but the courts can be backed up for up to 4 months to finally hear your case, and then it may be another 4 months to be seen again! Not that you are trying to rush things, but certainly couples would like to have a conclusion far sooner than wasting time and money waiting for their time to be seen and heard. It is our goal to be the best Riverside divorce mediator in the region.

We also specialize in:

Same Sex Divorces
Long Distance Divorce
Military Divorce

Using a proactive and creative approach, A Fair Way Mediation helps couples work out their final marital settlement agreement (MSA), including equitable distributions (IE; division of marital assets and liabilities). If children are involved, we will work closely with you to create a parenting plan which will include realistic time-sharing schedules, child support and any other factors that need to be discussed for the well-being of the child(ren). The goal is to save money, affordable, not cheap, always done right util completion.

We are always willing to answer questions and provide a confidential divorce mediation service.WE DO NOT TAKE SIDES (which is why divorce mediation is preferred). A Fair Way will allow each individual to speak and share their thoughts and feelings, as well as their goals and desires, this will lay things out on the table and help allow the mediation process to negotiate a mutual agreement and come to an affordable Riverside divorce mediation process.

Collaborative Environment Through Mediation

Mediation, by its very nature, fosters a collaborative rather than a combative environment. Unlike courtroom divorces, where parties often find themselves in opposition, mediation encourages couples to work together to reach mutually beneficial agreements. A Fair Way Mediation excels in creating a space where both parties feel heard and respected, which is essential for constructive dialogue and resolution.

Reducing Emotional Stress and Conflict

One of the most significant benefits of mediation is the reduction of emotional stress and conflict. Courtroom divorces can escalate tensions, leading to increased emotional strain. Mediation, on the other hand, focuses on open communication and understanding, which can greatly reduce the emotional toll on the divorcing couple and, importantly, on any children involved.

Cost-Effective Solution

The costs associated with courtroom divorces can be substantial, including attorney fees, court costs, and other related expenses. Mediation is generally a more cost-effective solution. A Fair Way Mediation provides expert services at a fraction of the cost of a traditional divorce, making it a financially sensible choice for couples.

Time-Efficient Process

Courtroom divorces can be lengthy, often taking months or even years to finalize. Mediation can significantly expedite the divorce process. At A Fair Way Mediation, the aim is to help couples reach agreements in a timely manner, allowing them to move forward with their lives more quickly.

Tailored Agreements and Solutions

Mediation offers the flexibility to create tailored agreements that suit the specific needs and circumstances of each couple. Unlike court rulings, which are often bound by strict legal guidelines, mediation allows for creative and personalized solutions. A Fair Way Mediation specializes in crafting agreements that address the unique concerns and priorities of each party.

Divorce Mediator Education

FROM DISCORD TO ACCORD: THE POWER OF DIVORCE MEDIATION

Divorce, a process fraught with emotional turmoil and significant life changes, often leads to adversarial legal battles, creating more bitterness and resentment between estranged partners. In recent years, a method called divorce mediation has emerged as a powerful tool to transform anger into cooperation and pave the way for a fair and peaceful resolution.

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.

A NEW BEGINNING: THE BENEFITS OF DIVORCE MEDIATION

Divorce is an emotionally challenging chapter in many people's lives, that often comes with tension, disagreements, and uncertainty about the future. While the process can be adversarial and draining, there's an alternative that offers a more peaceful and constructive approach to resolving differences: divorce mediation. This method is gaining popularity due to its numerous benefits for couples navigating the complexities of separation.

Divorce MediatOR Questions

How confidential is the mediation process?

Mediation proceedings are inherently private and confidential, safeguarding the discussions, negotiations, and any information shared within the sessions. The mediator, participants, and any other involved parties, like legal representatives or experts, are bound by confidentiality agreements or rules, making sure that what is discussed during mediation remains privileged and cannot be disclosed outside the sessions.

Who typically participates in divorce mediation sessions?

Divorce mediation sessions generally involve the divorcing spouses and a neutral third-party mediator trained in conflict resolution and negotiation techniques. Both parties actively participate in these sessions, seeking to resolve issues related to the dissolution of their marriage, such as property division, child custody, visitation rights, and financial arrangements.

Do I have to go to court with divorce mediation?

No. This is another primary reason couples choose mediation over litigation. All discussions will be settled out of court, once the agreement has been made you will simply submit the final paperwork to the courts which your divorce mediator will prepare. Discussions in mediation are kept private, when the case ends up in court it becomes a public record.

How much does divorce mediation cost?

Some mediators may charge a flat fee for the entire process, which could fall between $1,000 to $5,000 or more, while others might require payment on an hourly basis.

Is mediation suitable for cases involving child custody and support?

Through mediation, parents have the opportunity to craft mutually agreeable solutions tailored to their unique family dynamics and the best interests of their children. This process allows for greater flexibility and encourages the fostering of an amicable relationship between parties, which can be crucial in co-parenting scenarios.

Is mediation suitable for all types of divorces?

Generally, mediation works well when both parties are willing to collaborate, communicate, and negotiate effectively. It can be particularly effective for divorces involving fewer complexities, such as those without significant conflicts over child custody, complex financial assets, or instances of abuse. However, in cases where there's a significant power imbalance, lack of willingness to compromise, or concerns about safety, such as in cases of domestic violence, mediation might not be the most appropriate option.

What are the benefits of divorce mediation?

There are a variety of benefits to divorce mediation as opposed to litigation, here are just a few. Overall Costs: in comparison to litigation, mediation is much less expensive. The average cost of a mediated divorce is around $3500 - $7,000, the cost of a litigated divorce can easily exceed $25,000+ with lawyer fees and court costs. Less Stress: divorce mediation is designed to provide a peaceful environment to work out the issues, minimizing the level of conflict between the parties. More Control: with divorce mediation couples have control over the outcome of the divorce. They work together to come to an agreeable settlement that meets the unique needs and circumstances of their situation as opposed to a judge making the final decision. Quicker Process: the average time for divorce mediation from start to finish is around 3-8 weeks depending on the complexity of the case and the couples ability to communication.

Do we have to meet in person or can we mediate online or phone?

No. You do not have to meet in person. Discussions can be done over the phone or via online video chats such as Zoom or Skype.

How do I start the divorce process?

With divorce mediation, since mediators act as a neutral 3rd party and does not represent either spouse, it’s recommended to discuss with your spouse before exploring options. We offer a free 30 minute consultation to answer any questions you may have while also gathering information as to how we can help!

What is pet mediation and How does this work in a divorce?

While it may seem odd to many, pets are members of the family, and just like any other issues that need to be discussed, pet mediation in a divorce discusses custody and visitation of the pets. Learn More About Pet Mediation

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.