What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process where the two of you meet with a neutral facilitator, the mediator, to resolve your differences. A mediator works as a neutral facilitator and does not represent either party. The mediator will not tell you what you should do, or make decisions for you. Rather, the mediator will work with you to help you come up with resolutions that will work for you and your family.

How Does Mediation Work?

In mediation the two of you will meet with the mediator over several two hour sessions. A typical divorce will take between three and five two hour sessions to resolve all of the issues. Our current rates for mediation are $375 per hour. For mediation services we do not require a retainer, but rather ask that fees be paid at the end of each mediation session.

Once you have come to an agreement on all issues relating to your situation, you can have a agreement drawn up which sets out your agreement in detail. If you would like, for a separate charge, our office can draft a Marital Settlement Agreement for you as well as process all of the paperwork through the court system.

Do I Still Need a Lawyer?

In Mediation it is often helpful to have independent attorneys to consult with during the process.  Your own attorney can give you legal advice and assist you in deciding what to do during Mediation.  A consulting attorney can review any agreements you come up with as well.  We encourage all mediating parties to confer with independent counsel during the Mediation process.  We are also available to serve as consulting counsel for parties going through Mediation with other mediators.

Is Mediation a Good Option for Me?

Mediation is not for everyone. However, Mediation may be a good choice for you if:

Both of you are committed to honesty and full disclosure of all of the issues involved in your divorce;

You are relatively comfortable being in the same room with your partner or spouse and are able to speak up for yourself and your interests while acknowledging the other person's interests as well;

You are interested in keeping the costs as low as possible;

You don't have a lot of complicated assets. 

How Do I Start?

Give us a call at 650.931.2512 to learn more. We offer a complimentary half-hour consultation to each party in the mediation process. Call us to learn more about the process and to find out whether or not Mediation is a good choice for you.

How Can I Find Out More About Mediation?

For more information about Mediation, please click on one of the following links: