California Divorce Mediation process

1. Purpose of initial consultation: To understand the mediation process, discuss goals, and determine if mediation is suitable.
2. Topics discussed during the initial consultation: Meeting is with Scott Levin who will discuss our unique mediation process, the flat-fee mediation fees, answers questions and helps set a clear understanding of the benefits of a successful mediation and what woudl be expected from the couple if they choose our services.
3. Outcome of the initial consultation: Agreement to proceed with mediation and scheduling of future sessions.

Complete California Financial Disclosures for Divorce:

Mediation attorney Scott Levin provides the disclosure forms and helps the spouses fill them out fully and completely. The key is a full and open disclosure of property and debt by both sides as nothing less is acceptable. 

1. Purpose: To ensure both parties have a clear understanding of each other’s financial situation.
2. Activities: Completing and exchanging financial disclosure forms (Form FL-142 and Form FL-150).
3. Gathering documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and property valuations.
4. Timing: Disclosures should be completed early in the mediation process, typically within 60 days of starting mediation.
5. Outcome: Both parties have a comprehensive view of the financial landscape, which is crucial for fair negotiations.

Mediation Sessions with California Mediator Scott Levin: 

1. Identification of issues: Our California mediator helps identify the key issues to be resolved, such as child custody, division of assets, and financial support.
2. Negotiation and problem-solving: Through guided discussions, the mediator helps couples explore various options and find mutually agreeable solutions.
3. Negotiation Mediations: virtual mediations on zoom or mediations at our offices will include  both spouses and California divorce attorney mediator Scott Levin. These sessions are the key to the process as you will discuss and negotiate various aspects of the divorce.
4. The mediator facilitates discussions, helps identify issues, and suggests possible solutions.
5. Timing: Sessions should occur once a week or every other week. Typically couples need 5 or fewer meetings and so it is common for our clients to reach settlements within 6 or 8 weeks. 
6. Outcome: Reaching a mutually acceptable agreement on all issues.

Drafting the Marital Settlement Agreement:

Once agreements are reached on the full scope of California divorce issues, our mediator will prepare a comprehensive written agreement that reflects the couple’s marriage settlement agreement.  

1. Purpose: To formalize the agreements reached during mediation.
2. Activities: The mediator drafts a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) based on the negotiated terms.
3. Both parties review the draft, possibly with their attorneys, and make any necessary revisions.
4. Timing: Drafting and reviewing the agreement can take a few weeks.
5. Outcome: A finalized MSA that outlines the terms of the divorce.

Court Approval of Mediated Settlement Agreement for California Divorce:

Our mediation attorney Scott Levin performs all the court filings and drafting of all court forms for our clients. In doing so, our firm will navigate the legal process for you so that the settlement agreed upon is approved by the Court without either spouse ever going to court. Divorce without court is a beautiful thing.

1. Purpose: To obtain legal approval of the settlement agreement and finalize the divorce.
2. Activities: Filing the MSA and other required forms with the court (e.g., Form FL-170, FL-190 and Judgment Form FL-180).
3. Never attend a court hearing!
4. Timing: The court process can take several weeks to months, depending on the court’s schedule.
5. Outcome of Mediated Divorce is Judgment:
   A court-approved divorce decree that legally ends the marriage.