Do we need to file divorce papers
before beginning mediation?
If my spouse and I already have a court action started,
is it too late to mediate our case?
How long does mediation take?
How do we resolve more complex issues?
Why choose mediation?
Why choose San Diego Divorce Mediation Center?
Do
we need to file divorce papers before beginning
mediation?
No, the dissolution papers may be filed
after you start mediation and the mediator will help you
through this process by preparing and filing the court
documents. If you choose to file your paperwork prior to
commencement of mediation, you may do so. For San Diego
cases, click on this website to see information about
free family court services at
www.sdcourt.ca.gov.
If my spouse and I already have a court action
started, is it too late to mediate our case?
It is never too
late to mediate. In fact, mediation may help defuse some
of the hostility involved in dealing directly with the
court process. Even if you have attorneys, you can
participate in a mediation and see if you can "cut to
the chase" in reaching resolution. In some cases, your
attorneys may also participate in the mediation. Our
mediators are skilled in helping clients and their
counsel settle cases.
How long does mediation take?
Every case is
different and all people are different so it is
difficult to predict how many mediation sessions will be
needed. Generally speaking each mediation meeting lasts
two hours. You will be given some homework regarding
gathering information about your income, assets and
debts and if this is done early on, this speeds up the
process. The most important factor regarding the length
of time mediation takes is the clients ability to work
cooperatively toward a solution. On average, however,
four to six sessions should resolve most cases unless
there is a high degree of personal conflict; complex
property or debt issues or child sharing issues.
How do we resolve more complex issues?
Jan has 35 years of family law
experience and Kristine has 15 years. Jan has litigated
complex family law matters and both mediators have
creative approaches to problems. When necessary
accountants, appraisers or financial planners can be
added to the team to make sure all issues are covered in
detail.
Why choose mediation?
In these times
of financial uncertainty, mediation is a less costly
approach than traditional attorney representation with
its adversarial approach. We find that couples who
resolve their disputes through mediation have a
substantially greater likelihood of honoring their
agreements; getting on with their lives in a healthier
manner; and maintaining civil co-parenting relationships
in the future which reduces the negative impact of
divorce on children.
Why choose San Diego Divorce Mediation Center?
We provide a
safe and private environment in which to meet. We strive
to create an atmosphere of fairness and mutual respect.
We understand how difficult this time in your lives is
and we provide the support you need.
