California Divorce Mediation Law Firm
Mediation offers several benefits to divorcing couples who have differences they need help resolving but nevertheless want to avoid an all-out war or hiring attorneys. Divorce mediation is both less costly and less time consuming, and generally leads to a better outcome for all concerned, due to the collaborative nature of the process. Furthermore, settlement agreements that are reached through mediation are highly likely to stand the test of time. More than 75 percent never need mediation again.
For information about the family law mediation services available at our law firm, please contact Hubbard, Unger & Urquhart in Vacaville, California.
Knowledgeable, Competent, Cost Effective
E-mail or Call 707-448-7117
The ultimate goal of mediation is to reach a marital settlement agreement that is acceptable to both parties. Typically, our mediator meets with couples in two-hour sessions, and it takes from four to six sessions to reach an agreement. The mediator is not retained by either party and does not advocate for either party. The role of the mediator is to be neutral and:
- to help the parties explore the problems and issues that must be resolved
- to bring the parties together by helping them talk about their interests and differences
- to ensure they gather and disclose all the necessary information so they can reach a fair agreement
- to facilitate the creation of a settlement agreement both parties can live with
Mediation, like all forms of alternative dispute resolution ("ADR"), is a cooperative process. For it to succeed, both spouses must respect the process and accept the notion that there are no wrong emotions, just wrong ways of conveying emotions.
Reaching Full and Partial Agreements
Sometimes, but not often, the ultimate goal of reaching complete agreement is not attainable through mediation. In such situations, mediation is still beneficial. It is possible to reach partial agreement through mediation to get the negotiable issues off the table, and then to pursue the remaining issues with legal representation but still reducing the overall cost.
Anyone can be a mediator in California. It is not necessary to be a lawyer. But the cost-saving and other advantages of working with our mediator, Richard Urquhart — who has 30 years of training and experience in the practice of family law — cannot be overstated.
Certified Family Law Specialists · 707-448-7117
To learn more about the advantages of family law mediation and how our mediator can help you, please contact Hubbard, Unger & Urquhart today by phone or e-mail. We serve individuals and families in Solano County and throughout the surrounding region.
