What is a Divorce Mediator?
San Diego Divorce Mediation Lawyer, Scott Levin, knows the prospect of ending your marriage can be devastating, but divorce proceedings don’t have to be traumatic. Divorce mediation is an affordable alternative to litigating in court for resolving all family law issues before, during, and after the divorce or legal separation. Both parties meet with a trained, impartial family law mediator to resolve issues in a confidential setting
Scott is an expert in the Alternative Dispute Resolution process that strives to preserve the emotional and financial resources of the family while achieving an agreement that considers and respects the welfare of everyone in the family. The divorce mediation model provides divorcing parties the opportunity to problem solve in a private, confidential setting with the help of their experts, to reach a creative settlement that meets the needs of their family.
As an experienced San Diego divorce mediation lawyer and trained neutral mediator, Scott can help divorcing spouses file the necessary paperwork to start the divorce action, mediate contested issues, and prepare a Marital Settlement Agreement to finalize the divorce. If the divorce is already in progress, or if the parties have already retained counsel, parties can still save time and money by turning to mediation to complete the job.
If you’re wondering, “How do I find a mediator,” begin by searching online for “divorce mediators near me” or “divorce mediation San Diego.” Make a list of potential mediators in your area. Don’t limit yourself to just the closest options – the best divorce mediator for you might be worth a bit of travel.
After you have a list of possible mediators, it’s time to look into their credentials and certifications in addition to the mediator’s experience.
Client experiences can provide valuable insights into a mediator’s style and effectiveness. Look for the lawyer client reviews on:
Keep in mind that due to the confidential nature of mediation, some clients may not feel comfortable leaving public reviews. If testimonials are sparse, don’t let this be your only criterion.
Many mediators, including our team at San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law, offer an initial free divorce consultation. This is your chance to ask questions and get a feel for the mediator’s style.
Some key questions to ask include the following which Scott Levin answers on our behalf for your benefit:
5. Understand Different Mediation Styles
Mediators may use different styles, and understanding mediation styles can help you choose the right fit for your situation:
Many mediators, like Scott Levin, use a blend of styles depending on the needs of each case.
A good mediator should be an excellent communicator. During your initial consultation, assess:
A reputable mediator should be able to clearly explain their process. At San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law, we believe in transparency. Our San Diego mediation process typically includes:
Understanding the process helps you know what to expect and can make you feel more comfortable with your choice.
Understand the fee structure and what services are included. Some mediators charge by the hour, while others offer package deals. Be clear on what you’re getting for your money. Questions to ask a divorce mediator include:
Make sure the mediator you choose has the availability to handle your case in a timely manner. Delays can add stress to an already difficult process. Also, consider the location of their office and whether they offer virtual mediation options.