Frequently Asked Questions
About Divorce Mediation
- Are we good candidates for divorce mediation?
- How long does the divorce mediation process take?
- How much do divorce mediation services cost?
- What do we have to prepare before our meeting?
Q: Are we good candidates for divorce mediation?
A: While divorce mediation is the best option for many people, it is not the best option for everyone. Some people are confrontational in nature and want an adversarial court fight, regardless of the cost, or they cannot or refuse to participate in a cooperative and amicable process. Others cannot understand that resolving their dispute more cooperatively produces better, fairer, and less expensive results. Additionally, divorce mediation is a fair, honest, and open process, and it is therefore inappropriate for those who want to proceed dishonestly or hide assets.
Q: How long does the divorce mediation process take?
A: Most divorce mediations can be completed within four to eight hours. The entire process can be completed in one day or split into two days. If split into two days, the first meeting is typically a brief meeting to initiate the process of filing the papers and set the process in motion. The second meeting, then, is for determining the Marital Settlement Agreement and the other terms of the divorce including child custody, support, and debt and asset division.
Q: How much do divorce mediation services cost?
A: Fair Divorce in a Day Mediation has a flat rate fee of $2,500 for the first eight hours. Very few mediations take longer than eight hours, but the fee is $300 per hour after the initial eight hours. Additionally, each county's court has a filing fee, which is not included in the mediation rate. For example, the current fee to file for divorce San Diego County is $320.
Q: What do we have to prepare before our meeting?
A: California requires that all parties to a divorce fill out a variety of forms that demand a complete and honest disclosure of all of their assets. A married couple can collaborate on the Schedule of Assets and Debts form, but each spouse must fill out his or her own Income and Expense Declaration. Filling out as much of these forms as possible before the mediation meetings can expedite the process. Ms. Rachman can refer clients who need assistance to someone who has experience in completing these forms.
Ms. Rachman has a 100% success rate in over 250 mediations. If you believe amicable divorce mediation proceedings might be the best option for you and your spouse, Contact Fair Divorce in a Day Mediation today for a free initial consultation.
