Costs Of Divorce Attorney vs Divorce Mediation In California | California Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Costs Of Divorce Attorney vs Divorce Mediation In California

Divorce is never easy, but the financial burden it can impose often comes as a surprise to many. If you are considering ending your marriage in California, understanding the costs involved with traditional divorce attorneys versus alternative methods like divorce mediation can save you a significant amount of money and stress. Drawing from extensive experience and real-life examples, this article explores the stark differences between these two approaches and how you can make an informed decision that works best for your circumstances.

The High Cost of Traditional Divorce Attorneys

When you think about a divorce, many people imagine a straightforward process, but the reality is often far from that. One of the most shocking aspects for many is the expense involved. The average divorce in California can cost upwards of $100,000. Yes, you read that right—six figures.

This figure represents the combined fees of the two attorneys involved, and it’s not uncommon. Many people believe, “It won’t be that expensive for me; we’ll keep costs down, and we’ll figure this out.” Unfortunately, what they don’t realize is how quickly the legal fees add up. Hourly rates, court fees, document preparation, and the time required for negotiations and hearings all contribute to escalating costs.

For example, imagine each attorney bills around $30,000 for their work. That’s already $60,000 before you factor in other court costs, filing fees, or unexpected complications. At the law office where I worked, it was typical for people to receive monthly bills that made them reconsider continuing the battle. Many would call us after getting their invoices, expressing shock and a desire to settle quickly because they feared they would “have nothing left” financially by the end of the process.

Why Do Attorney Fees Get So High?

Attorney fees accumulate rapidly because of the hourly billing system most lawyers use. Each phone call, document review, court appearance, and negotiation session is billed separately. Even if your case seems simple, the hours multiply quickly, especially if there are disagreements or contested issues.

Plus, the initial retainers can be steep. You might be required to pay tens of thousands upfront just to get your case started, on top of consultation fees, which often range from $350 to $400. These costs can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the emotional and logistical challenges of divorce.

Divorce Mediation: A Cost-Effective Alternative

Now, contrast this with divorce mediation, which offers a far more affordable and flexible path. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps both spouses come to an agreement on the terms of their divorce without going to court. This process not only saves money but also provides more control over the timeline and outcomes.

Using mediation combined with document preparation services can reduce your total costs dramatically. For a case with minimal issues or just a few points of contention, you might spend around $22,000 total. This figure covers document preparation, mediation sessions, and related services — a fraction of what you would pay in attorney fees.

To put it in perspective, $22,000 is roughly a quarter of the retainer you might have to pay an attorney upfront before any work begins. Plus, mediation sessions are scheduled based on your availability, not the court’s calendar, which means the process can be completed on your timeline.

How Mediation Saves Time and Money

The court system can be notoriously slow. Getting your case heard might take months or even longer, with numerous procedural hoops to jump through. Each delay can add stress and additional costs.

With mediation, you decide when to meet, and you can space out sessions as needed. The entire process could take as little as a month or stretch out over a few months depending on what works best for you and your spouse. This flexibility reduces not just financial strain but emotional exhaustion as well.

What Makes You a Good Candidate for Mediation?

Not every divorce is suitable for mediation. Cases involving domestic violence, significant power imbalances, or highly contested child custody issues may require traditional legal representation. However, if you and your spouse can communicate civilly and are willing to negotiate in good faith, mediation is an excellent option.

When you have most agreements already in place or only a few issues to resolve, mediation combined with professional document preparation services can be a smooth, cost-effective path to finalizing your divorce.

The Role of Document Preparation Services

One of the hidden costs in divorce is the preparation and filing of legal documents. Attorneys typically charge for this time, but you can use specialized document preparation services to handle this part more affordably. These services ensure that all paperwork is correctly filled out and filed on time, reducing the risk of delays or errors that could lead to additional costs.

Summary: Comparing Costs and Benefits

  • Traditional Divorce Attorneys: Average combined cost around $100,000, with high upfront retainers and hourly billing that can lead to surprise bills and prolonged timelines.
  • Divorce Mediation + Document Preparation: Total cost around $22,000 for simple cases, with flexible scheduling and faster resolution.

By choosing mediation, you not only save money but also gain control over the divorce process, avoiding the stress of court dates and lengthy legal battles. For many Californians, this is a game-changer.

Final Thoughts

Divorce is a difficult life event, but it doesn’t have to drain your finances or drag on endlessly. Understanding the real costs involved can empower you to make the best decision for your situation. If you’re looking to save money and reduce stress, consider mediation and professional document preparation as a viable alternative to traditional attorneys.

Remember, the key is to evaluate your unique circumstances carefully. If your divorce is amicable or involves few contested issues, mediation can be a far more affordable and efficient option. However, if your case is complex or contentious, consulting with an experienced attorney might still be necessary.

Whatever path you choose, being informed about the costs and processes involved is crucial. By doing so, you protect not just your financial future but also your peace of mind during this challenging time.

For more detailed guidance and resources on navigating divorce in California, visit Divorce661.com, where you can find expert advice and services designed to help you through every step.

 

Understanding Divorce Mediation: What You Need to Know Before You Choose | California Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Understanding Divorce Mediation: What You Need to Know Before You Choose

Navigating the complexities of divorce can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to resolving disputes and reaching agreements. One option many couples consider is mediation—a process designed to help both parties come to a mutual understanding without the need for a contentious court battle. However, not all mediators are created equal, and understanding the differences can significantly impact the outcome of your divorce proceedings.

In this article, I’ll break down the two main types of divorce mediators you’re likely to encounter and explain what each offers, what you can expect from their services, and how to decide which type is right for you. Whether you’re just starting the divorce process or exploring alternatives to litigation, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

The Basics of Divorce Mediation

Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method where a neutral third party assists divorcing couples in reaching agreements on issues like property division, child custody, and support arrangements. The goal is to find common ground and avoid the adversarial nature of court trials.

While mediation can be a valuable tool, it’s important to understand that there is surprisingly little formal training required to become a mediator. Many people can call themselves mediators without extensive legal knowledge or credentials. This reality means that the quality and scope of mediation services can vary widely.

Two Types of Divorce Mediators: Non-Attorney vs. Attorney Mediators

When it comes to divorce mediation, you will generally find two distinct categories of mediators: non-attorney mediators and attorney mediators. Each type offers different services, expertise, and legal validity of the agreements they help draft.

1. Non-Attorney Mediators

Non-attorney mediators are individuals who facilitate discussions between you and your spouse to help work through differences and reach a fair agreement. These mediators often have backgrounds in counseling, social work, or conflict resolution but do not have legal training.

Their primary role is to sit down with both parties, encourage open communication, and help you come to a consensus on the issues that matter most. While their assistance can be invaluable in smoothing the negotiation process and reducing emotional tension, there are some important limitations:

  • No Legal Advice or Rights Explanation: Non-attorney mediators cannot provide you with legal advice or explain your rights under the law. They focus solely on helping you reach a fair agreement based on your mutual interests.
  • Non-Binding Agreements: The agreements reached with a non-attorney mediator typically result in a verbal understanding or, at best, a written letter outlining the terms. However, these documents are not legally binding and cannot be directly submitted to a court as part of your divorce proceedings.
  • Cost-Effective but Limited: These mediation services tend to be less expensive, with some sessions costing as little as a few hundred dollars total. While affordable, you should be aware that you might need additional legal help to formalize your agreements for the court.

In essence, if you and your spouse are on relatively amicable terms and primarily need someone to help facilitate communication and draft a basic agreement, a non-attorney mediator might be adequate. Just keep in mind that the document you receive at the end of this process won’t have legal weight in your divorce case.

2. Attorney Mediators

Attorney mediators are lawyers who act as neutral parties in the mediation process. They bring legal expertise to the table, which can be a game-changer for couples seeking a comprehensive and legally sound resolution to their divorce issues.

Here’s what you can expect from an attorney mediator:

  • Legal Knowledge and Guidance: Attorney mediators understand family law in detail. They can explain the legal rights and obligations of each spouse, provide insight into potential outcomes, and discuss the pros and cons of various settlement options.
  • Drafting Legally Binding Agreements: After helping you and your spouse reach an agreement, an attorney mediator will draft a marital settlement agreement. This document contains all the necessary legal language to make it enforceable and suitable for submission to the court.
  • Neutral and Objective: While they are lawyers, attorney mediators remain neutral and do not represent either party exclusively. Their role is to facilitate a fair and legally sound agreement that both parties can accept.

The key advantage here is that the marital settlement agreement you receive at the end of the process is not just a set of terms on paper—it’s a legal document that will be attached to your final divorce judgment. This means you won’t need to worry about whether your agreement holds up in court.

However, these services come at a higher price point due to the attorney’s expertise and the legal validity of the documents produced. Expect to invest more upfront, but gain peace of mind knowing your agreement is enforceable and professionally prepared.

What Mediation Does and Does Not Cover

It’s important to clarify that mediation focuses on helping you and your spouse reach agreements on key divorce issues, but it does not typically include assistance with the actual filing or preparation of divorce paperwork. Most mediators—especially non-attorney ones—will not help you draft or file the legal documents required to initiate or finalize your divorce case.

This is where specialized legal services come into play. After mediation, you may need to work with a family law attorney or a divorce document preparation service to ensure all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted to the court. Proper handling of these documents is crucial to avoid delays or complications in your divorce process.

Choosing the Right Mediator for Your Divorce

Deciding which type of mediator to use depends on your unique circumstances, priorities, and budget. Here are some questions to ask yourself when making this choice:

  1. How amicable is your relationship with your spouse? If you have a relatively cooperative relationship and just need help facilitating communication, a non-attorney mediator might suffice.
  2. Do you need legal advice and a binding agreement? If you want a legally enforceable marital settlement agreement and value professional legal guidance, an attorney mediator is the better option.
  3. What is your budget for mediation services? Non-attorney mediation is generally more affordable but may require additional legal help later. Attorney mediation costs more but provides a complete legal package.
  4. Are you comfortable handling the legal paperwork yourself? If not, you’ll need to engage legal professionals after mediation to prepare and file your divorce documents.

In many cases, combining mediation with legal document preparation services offers the best balance of cost-effectiveness and legal protection. Mediation helps you reach an agreement, and legal experts ensure your paperwork is court-ready.

Getting Help With Your Divorce After Mediation

If you’re going through mediation and find yourself unsure about the legal process or paperwork, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Preparing divorce documents correctly is essential to avoid delays and ensure your settlement is recognized by the court.

Legal professionals can help you:

  • Prepare and file the necessary divorce petitions and responses
  • Attach the marital settlement agreement to your divorce judgment
  • Navigate court procedures and deadlines
  • Answer any questions you have about the divorce process

Remember, mediation is just one part of the divorce journey. Having the right support system in place can make all the difference in achieving a smooth and fair resolution.

Finding a Mediator in Your Area

If you’re local and need assistance locating a reputable mediator, it’s worth reaching out to trusted sources who can provide referrals. Whether you want a non-attorney mediator or an attorney mediator, choosing someone with a good track record and positive reviews can help ensure a more positive mediation experience.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their qualifications, experience, and the types of cases they typically handle. The right mediator can facilitate a more productive dialogue and help you reach an agreement that works for both you and your spouse.

Conclusion

Divorce mediation can be a powerful tool to help couples resolve their differences amicably and avoid lengthy court battles. However, understanding the distinction between non-attorney and attorney mediators is crucial to making the best choice for your situation.

Non-attorney mediators offer affordable facilitation but do not provide legally binding agreements or legal advice. Attorney mediators bring legal expertise and draft enforceable marital settlement agreements, though their services come at a higher cost.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your needs, relationship dynamics, and budget. Pairing mediation with professional legal document preparation ensures your divorce process proceeds smoothly and that your agreements are recognized by the court.

Take the time to research and select the right mediator, and don’t hesitate to seek legal support when needed. With the right team, you can navigate your divorce with confidence and clarity, setting the stage for a fresh start.

About the Author: Tim Blankinship is a family law professional with extensive experience in divorce mediation and legal document preparation. Dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce, Tim offers clear guidance and trusted referrals to ensure clients achieve fair and legally sound outcomes.

 

Understanding the Intersection of Law and Divorce Mediation | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Understanding the Intersection of Law and Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is a crucial part of the divorce process, allowing couples to reach agreements amicably. However, understanding how the law applies to mediation can significantly impact the decisions made during this process. Knowing your options is essential, so you don’t find yourself in a situation where you feel you signed an agreement without fully understanding its implications.

The Importance of Legal Awareness in Mediation

When entering mediation, it’s vital to be aware of the laws governing divorce in your state. While mediation is primarily about fairness and collaboration, the law sets the framework within which these negotiations occur. This is where knowledge becomes power. You don’t want to sign an agreement and later realize that it doesn’t align with legal standards or your best interests.

For instance, if you’re unaware of your rights regarding property division, you might agree to terms that are unfavorable to you. This lack of awareness can lead to regrets down the line, where you might think, “Why did I agree to that?” Understanding the law helps prevent such situations.

Fairness vs. Legal Standards

Mediation focuses on reaching a fair agreement that works for both parties. However, what feels fair to one person might not meet legal requirements. It’s crucial to strike a balance between what seems fair and what is legally enforceable. This balance ensures that both parties feel satisfied with the outcome and that the agreement stands up in court if needed.

  • Example: In many jurisdictions, marital property is subject to equitable distribution. This means that property should be divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. If one party is unaware of the law, they may agree to a division that is not equitable, leading to future disputes.

Key Considerations When Approaching Mediation

As you prepare for mediation, keep several key considerations in mind to ensure you make informed decisions:

  1. Consult a Lawyer: Before mediation, consider consulting with a family law attorney who can explain your rights and the implications of various agreements.
  2. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communications and agreements made during mediation. This documentation can be crucial if disputes arise later.
  3. Understand Financial Implications: Discuss how different agreements will affect your financial situation, including taxes, alimony, and child support.
  4. Be Open to Compromise: Mediation requires a willingness to compromise. Understanding the law can help you know when to stand firm and when to give in.

Potential Risks of Ignorance

Entering mediation without a solid understanding of the law can lead to several risks:

  • Unenforceable Agreements: If an agreement violates state laws, it may not be enforceable. This can lead to further legal battles down the road.
  • Unfair Settlements: One party may take advantage of the other’s lack of knowledge, resulting in an unfair settlement.
  • Long-Term Consequences: Decisions made in mediation can have lasting effects on your financial future and relationship with your children.

The Role of Mediation in Divorce

Mediation serves as a valuable tool in the divorce process, promoting communication and mutual respect. It allows couples to work together to find solutions that best suit their individual needs and circumstances.

However, it’s essential to remember that mediation is not a legal forum. It doesn’t replace the need for legal advice. Instead, mediation should complement your legal knowledge, allowing you to navigate the process more effectively.

Preparing for Mediation

Preparation is key to a successful mediation experience. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Gather Financial Documents: Collect all relevant financial information, including bank statements, tax returns, and asset valuations. This will provide a clear picture of your financial situation.
  • List Your Goals: Identify what you hope to achieve through mediation. Understanding your priorities will help guide the discussions.
  • Practice Communication: Effective communication is essential in mediation. Practice expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully.

The Mediation Process

The mediation process typically involves several steps:

  1. Initial Meeting: The mediator will explain the process and set ground rules. This meeting helps establish a safe and respectful environment.
  2. Discussion of Issues: Each party has the opportunity to present their concerns and priorities. This is where effective communication is crucial.
  3. Negotiation: The mediator will facilitate discussions to help both parties explore options and work toward a mutually acceptable agreement.
  4. Drafting the Agreement: Once an agreement is reached, the mediator will help draft a written document outlining the terms. This document should be reviewed by legal counsel before signing.

Conclusion

Understanding how the law applies to divorce mediation is vital for anyone navigating the divorce process. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, ensuring that your agreements are fair and legally sound. Remember, mediation is about collaboration, but it should not come at the expense of your legal rights.

By preparing adequately, seeking legal advice, and being open to communication, you can achieve a successful outcome that reflects both fairness and legal integrity. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and guidance throughout this challenging time.

 

Understanding the Cost of Divorce Mediation in California | California Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Understanding the Cost of Divorce Mediation in California

Divorce can be a daunting process, both emotionally and financially. One of the most efficient ways to navigate divorce is through mediation, which offers a more amicable and cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation. In this blog, we will explore the various aspects of divorce mediation costs in California, provide insights on how to save money during the process, and offer tips on preparing for mediation effectively.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is a process where a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps couples negotiate the terms of their divorce. The goal is to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties without the need for contentious court battles. Mediation can cover a variety of issues, including child custody, property division, and financial arrangements.

Average Cost of Divorce Mediation

The cost of divorce mediation can vary widely based on several factors. On average, couples can expect to pay between $3,000 and $8,000 for mediation in California. This range typically includes:

  • Filing Fees: These are the costs associated with submitting necessary documents to the court, which generally range from $435 to $450.
  • Mediator Fees: Mediators may charge hourly rates that can vary significantly. In California, these rates range from $200 to $600 per hour, depending on the mediator’s experience and location.
  • Time Spent: The total cost largely depends on how many hours are required to reach an agreement. The more complex the issues, the longer the mediation may take.

Factors Affecting Mediation Costs

Several factors can impact the overall cost of mediation:

  • Complexity of Issues: If your divorce involves complicated financial matters or significant assets, mediation may take longer and, therefore, cost more.
  • Preparation: Couples who come prepared with a clear understanding of their needs and issues tend to spend less time in mediation.
  • Location: Mediators in urban areas like Los Angeles may charge higher fees compared to those in smaller towns.

Hourly Rates of Mediators and Attorneys

Understanding the hourly rates of mediators and attorneys is crucial for budgeting:

  • Mediators: Typically charge between $200 and $600 per hour.
  • Attorneys: In California, attorney fees generally range from $400 to $600 per hour, but rates can be lower or higher depending on the attorney’s experience and reputation.

How to Save Money During Mediation

While divorce mediation can be more affordable than litigation, there are ways to further reduce costs:

  1. Discuss Issues in Advance: Prior to mediation, have open discussions with your spouse about the issues at hand. Document agreements and disagreements to present during mediation.
  2. Narrow Down Your Needs: Identify specific areas where you require mediation assistance. This focused approach can reduce the time spent in mediation.
  3. Prepare Financial Documents: Gather all necessary financial documentation, such as mortgage statements, credit card balances, and income statements. Having this information ready can expedite discussions.
  4. Consider Online Mediation: Some mediators offer online sessions, which can be more cost-effective and convenient.

Preparing for Mediation

Preparation is key to a successful mediation experience. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

  • Set Clear Goals: Before mediation, determine what you want to achieve. Setting clear objectives will help guide the discussion.
  • Practice Active Listening: Be prepared to listen to your spouse’s concerns and viewpoints. Effective communication can lead to a more amicable resolution.
  • Stay Open-Minded: Mediation is about compromise. Be willing to consider different solutions that may not have been on your radar.
  • Bring Necessary Documents: Ensure you have all relevant documents organized and accessible during the mediation session.

Conclusion

The cost of divorce mediation in California can vary, but with proper preparation and understanding of the process, couples can navigate their divorce more amicably and affordably. Mediation not only saves money but also helps maintain a cooperative relationship post-divorce. If you are considering mediation, remember to communicate openly with your spouse, prepare thoroughly, and approach the process with a willingness to compromise.

For more information on divorce mediation and to schedule a consultation, visit Divorce661.

 

Mediated California Divorce : When & Why To Start Your Divorce Paperwork

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

If you are going to have a mediated California divorce, you may want to also consider starting your divorce paperwork at the same time. Mediators will generally only handle the mediation of your divorce and help you come to an agreement, but they generally don’t handle the paperwork. And people are surprised that after they have spent several months in mediation that they never started the process on the 6 month divorce process with the courts which just causes delays.

Mediated California Divorce : When & Why To Start Your Divorce Paperwork

Today we’re talking divorce mediation and the process of doing that and what we encourage you to do and I’ll give you the rationale behind it.

If you’re going into mediation, mediators will typically mediate your entire divorce case before any action is taken with the courts. Let me give you an example or let me give you some opposing views.

We File Your Divorce Case First To Start The Clock On The 6 Month Process

If you call us, the 1st thing we do is get your case filed, get it served, so we can start the clock on the process. Then it can take as long as it needs to take. 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, a year. You can do your mediation. You can go through that process, but the benefit to filing initially is that you start the clock on the 6 month process.

Why Spend Months Mediating & Never Start The Court Process?

Here’s the alternative. If you go to mediation and let’s say you spend 6 months in mediation, you finally iron out your agreement, you have a memorandum of understanding drafted for you and you say okay, let’s go through the divorce process, you basically it’s as if you’re just getting started. You have to file a case.

File & Serve Divorce Papers And Then Mediate

You have to have the paperwork served and the 6 month clock starts after you come to all of your agreements. Now that’s fine unless you’re hoping to have your divorce case completed faster. If that’s the case, you can go ahead and do your mediation, but at the same time, go ahead and call us so we can get your paperwork started for your divorce, get it served, start the clock and then take as long as you want.

That way when your memorandum of understanding is completed and you guys are all in agreement and done, you can literally finalize right there on the spot. Tim Blankenship, divorce661.com. Thanks for watching. Hope this was helpful and have a great day.

Are You A Divorce Mediator? Use Divorce661 For Your Divorce Processing

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Are you a divorce mediator and like doing mediation but not necessarily doing the procedural divorce paperwork? We’ll we have a solution for you. While not our primary source of business, we have been sought out by numerous divorce mediators to assist with the divorce document preparation and handle the divorce court procedural steps once mediation is completed.

We are very flexible when working with divorce mediators and their clients and there are different ways you can utilize us to keep your divorce mediation in your wheel house and make good recommendations when sending your clients out to have their divorce paperwork processed.

Here are few ways for divorce mediators to use our service.

Use us as an extension of your business – You can continue to be the contact point for your clients and use us to prepare, file and handle all the procedural steps. All communication between you can your clients will remain and we will be out of the picture and completely behind the scenes. We will coordinate anything we need through you which can then be obtain by you and provided to us.

Use us as a referral partner – When I speak to mediators, I give them the options in how they want to use our service. I think at first thought, the divorce mediators first want to be the contact point for communication with their client. But it usually only takes one time working with us to realize that we are professionals and will leave a good impression with your client as an extension of your service.

Divorce mediators will usually just have us deal with their client directly and let them know they are working with a 3rd party company to have the divorce process handled.

We are easy to work with – We handle all the paperwork so you don’t have to. We will file the Petition, handle the disclosures and prepare and file the judgment once all signatures are completed. We will deal directly with the court and save you time so you can spend more of it on mediation.

We save your clients money – Because we have worked with the courts and understand the process, we can save your divorce mediation clients money. Because they are in agreement, we can file a hybrid divorce judgment. This is just fancy speak for saying we will not have the respondent file a response so save on the $435 response fee. We will still prepare a stipulated judgment.

Just provide us your MOU, Marital Settlement Agreement or Judgment – We know there are different types of divorce mediators. Some are attorney mediators who draft Marital Settlement Agreements and some that are non-attorney mediators who draft Memorandum of Understandings. All we ask you to do is to provide your MOU and we will incorporate your clients agreements into the divorce judgment forms.

If you want more information about how we can help you, please just give us a call. We would be happy to discuss a working relationship with you and how we can serve you and your clients.

Santa Clarita Divorce Mediation In Santa Clarita

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Santa Clarita Divorce Mediation In Santa Clarita

We have written several articles about Santa Clarita divorce mediation and I have conducted interviews on my radio show about Santa Clarita divorce mediation.  While the podcasts are available throughout our website, I thought it would be a good idea to compile all the articles and podcast episodes here on a single page so you can find the information about Santa Clarita divorce mediation more easily from a single post.

Who Makes The Decisions During Divorce Mediation?  You or the Mediator?

Do Divorce Lawyers Understand Divorce Mediation?

Is Divorce Mediation For Wimps?

Does Divorce Mediation Take Longer Than Hiring A Divorce Attorney?

Can You Hire A Divorce Attorney And Divorce Mediator?

Do Men Have An Advantage During Divorce Mediation?

Does Either Spouse Have An Advantage During Divorce Mediation? 

Should Everyone Use Divorce Mediation?

If you have any questions or are looking for an affordable way to complete your divorce in Santa Clarita or anywhere in California make sure to give us a call.  We would be happy to help.

Santa Clarita Divorce | Who Makes The Decisions During Divorce Mediation?

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Santa Clarita Divorce | Who Makes The Decisions During Divorce Mediation?

As we continue on the journey of answering some of the myth’s to questions we get about Santa Clarita divorce mediation, we now are talking about who makes the decision during divorce mediation and who decides what is fair.  While I have heard of some horror stories  where people said they went to a divorce mediation and the mediator actually took someone’s side, in most cases this does not happen.

Listen to this quick podcast interview where we discuss this issue in detail.

Santa Clarita Divorce | Who Makes The Decisions During Divorce Mediation?

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Santa Clarita Divorce | Do Divorce Lawyers Understand Divorce Mediation?

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Santa Clarita Divorce | Do Divorce Lawyers Understand Divorce Mediation?

The reason we discussed this in this interview on the podcast is because there are different types of Santa Clarita divorce mediators. In this podcast we talk specifically about lawyer mediators or attorney mediators.

What has happened is mediation has become a more popular form of getting through their divorce and attorney’s are jumping on the bandwagon so they can cash in on some of this business. So now some or most of the Santa Clarita divorce attorney’s are advertising some type of mediation service.

What we discuss in this podcast is if hiring an attorney to do you mediation is the right choice.  We are talking about attorney’s whose job it is to represent people in court. They are not normally trained as mediators and their brains are not wired for mediation usually.

Listen to this quick podcast where we discuss this issue.

Santa Clarita Divorce | Do Divorce Lawyers Understand Divorce Mediation?

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Santa Clarita Divorce | Divorce Mediation Is For Wimps

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Santa Clarita Divorce | Divorce Mediation Is For Wimps

I obviously don’t believe this to be true, but apparently there are people out there that feel that they are week by using a Santa Clarita divorce mediation instead of hiring a Santa Clarita divorce attorney.

In my opinion it takes more guts to use a mediator. Let me explain.  When you hire a Santa Clarita Divorce mediator you have to sit in a room and make decisions that may be difficult to make.  When you hire an attorney, you are basically walking away from that responsibility and putting it into someone else’s hands.  Sometimes you just need an attorney, but when possible a better result will always come from completing your Santa Clarita divorce through mediation.

Listen to this short podcast interview where we discuss this in detail.

Santa Clarita Divorce | Divorce Mediation Is For Wimps

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