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Palm Desert Divorce Mediation

Finding the right divorce mediator to handle the divorce proceedings can be difficult. You need to make sure that the mediator you choose has experience with a wide variety of marital issues that need to be worked out. Here at A Fair Way Mediation, we have over 30 years experience helping Palm Desert couples get a peaceful and affordable divorce. We know that you both are ready to move on with your lives, which is why our goal is to provide affordable and peaceful divorce mediation servics.

For a free evaluation, please fill out our "Start Evaluation" form or call us today!

619-702-9174

Divorce mediation is a completely confidential discussion between individuals when it comes to divorce. We work as a 3rd party neutral mediator to help the proceedings continue and issues sorted out so that the divorce can be finalized. It is important to note, WE DO NOT TAKE SIDES.

A Fair Way Mediation is a professional divorce mediation practice that helps couples in dispute to communicate more effectively about their interests, working to guide them towards a resolution as quickly as possible.

Benefits Mediation Provides

There are a variety of reasons for couples to choose mediation over litigation, here are just a few of the primary benefits:

Affordable

Divorce can be expensive, even more so if you decide to go to the litigation route with each individual hiring their own attorney. In terms of costs, divorce mediation costs (on average) between $3500 - $7500 depending on the complexity of the case and the ability of the couple to communicate. Whereas litigation can easily exceed $25,000+ per person when each side hires their own attorney. It's not uncommon for litigated divorces to exceed $75,000 and more. Mediation is a fraction of the cost while ultimately reaching the same conclusion that a litigated divorce will have.

Confidential - No Court

People like their privacy, bottom line. This is why mediation is a great alternative to a traditional divorce because you DO NOT GO TO COURT. All proceedings are handled outside of the judicial system and remain private and confidential, even after submission to the courts. With a traditional divorce, each side will be required to appear in court in front of a judge and when this happens, all proceedings become public record, even the outcome. Mediation is a great way to keep your divorce private.

Time

With a litigated divorce where attorneys are involved, the divorce proceedings can take up to 8 months just to be seen in front of the judge for the first hearing. Mediation is a great solution because the duration of the divorce process depends on your availability along with your ability to communicate. You dictate how long the mediation process will take. The average time for a mediated divorce is anywhere between a few weeks to several months. You are not pressured to have meetings, but it will help facilitate the process to come to an agreeable solution if you are able to meet frequently. We can also provide phone conferences and virtual video meetings if needed.

Trusted Divorce Mediator Services

With a divorce mediator, you do not need to seek the services of a traditional divorce lawyer. When couples choose to go the lawyer route, the fees often add up very quickly and the communication between the couple is thwarted due to having to speak to your lawyer to convey information to the other lawyer. This is where communication breaks down and will prolong the completion of the divorce. This is also where anger really begins to play its hand, with each side wanting to "win". Divorce mediators work to keep things peaceful knowing that you both want the final outcome to be fair for each individual, without having to spend thousands of dollars.

Divorce Mediation Education

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON A DIVORCE

Excerpt: In an ideal situation, couples would consider the possibility of a divorce and make plans for it at the same time they plan their wedding. Prior to marriage, decisions on important issues such as children, income, and property distribution should be made. Those preferences can then be put into a prenuptial agreement, a legal document that specifies the wishes of each spouse. Prenuptial agreements (prenups) common with the wealthy, are now more common in average U.S. marriages. Mediation works perfectly to help couples develop a prenup customized to their unique situation.

COLLABORATION OR MEDIATE - WHAT’S THE BEST DIVORCE PROCESS FOR YOU?

Excerpt: Divorce mediation offers a peaceful alternative to the often aggressive and stressful court divorce, and avoids a long and costly divorce process. Mediation is considered the quickest, least expensive and most efficient way to divorce. A professional mediator acts as a supportive guide throughout the divorce process and helps to lead couples to a fair and supportive resolution. Both spouses must be committed to mediation for it to be successful.

DIVORCE ON THE RISE FOR THOSE 50+

Excerpt: For those over 50 years old, divorce has been on the rise over the past few years as time goes by and generations get older. Most times couples have simply grown apart over the years and looking for a new chapter for their later years in life. While it may be stressful, it's nothing to be ashamed of as statistics continue to show couples parting in their later years.

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.

What happens if we cannot reach an agreement through mediation?

If couples are unable to reach an agreement through divorce mediation, they may choose to continue negotiating and exploring alternative dispute resolution methods such as collaborative divorce or arbitration. If these efforts fail, the next step is litigation where each party presents their case to a judge who will then make the final decisions regarding division of assets, child custody, spousal support, and any other relevant matters.

Can I still go to court if mediation fails?

Yes, you can still go to court if divorce mediation fails. If mediation proves unsuccessful and the couple is unable to reach an agreement on the issues, they have the option to pursue litigation by taking their case to court.

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.

For a free evaluation, please fill out our "Start Evaluation" form or call us today!

619-702-9174

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.