Los Angeles Mediation Lawyers

Mediation

Mediation bypasses the lengthy and sometimes expensive process of getting a divorce in a court. In court, divorcing spouses appear before a judge who issues orders on divorce-related matters like division of property, spousal support and child custody and support. Spouses who choose mediation instead hire a mediator, a neutral expert in family law who helps them come to their own agreement on those issues. Divorcing couples with contested child custody matters are also often ordered by the judge in their case to go to a court-appointed mediator. In either case, if they reach an agreement, they can simply file it with the court and complete their divorce without the hassle and expense of going before a judge.

At Wallin & Klarich, we believe mediation is often the best way to dissolve a marriage. We're not alone -- more than 90% of all divorces are mediated rather than brought to trial. Mediation is generally faster than a divorce that takes place in court, often ending in two or three months. For that reason, and because spouses share many of the costs of the case, it can also be significantly cheaper. Even spouses who are angry with one another or believe the other person is not "playing fair" may be able to benefit from mediation, because the process helps them come to a voluntary, mutually acceptable agreement. Studies show those who use it have higher satisfaction with their divorces and a lower chance of returning to court to re-litigate the matter.

While you may represent yourself before a mediator, just as you may in court, there are many advantages to hiring an Orange County family law attorney for a divorce mediation. A California divorce attorney can advise you on how best to present yourself, your assets and your custody preferences before a mediator; advise you of your legal rights and options during the mediation; and, if you're only mediating custody, represent you in related matters such as child support and property division. An attorney can also take the burden of preparing documents, communicating with an ex-spouse and other divorce tasks away from you, so you can concentrate on helping yourself and your family through a difficult time.

Wallin & Klarich has more than 30 years of experience in family law. Our California mediation attorneys know from long experience what works in a divorce case, and are prepared to fight to get you the best possible outcome -- if necessary. And with 16 attorneys in 33 offices throughout Southern California, we can be there when you need us -- wherever you are. If you're thinking of hiring an attorney for a mediated divorce, call us today at 1-888-749-7428 for a consultation, or fill out the online case evaluation form to the right.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach every case with the belief that the person we're representing could easily be one of our own family members. We've seen firsthand how stressful legal matters can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are committed to being available to our clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you are involved in a family law matter in Southern California, you should call Wallin & Klarich today for a free evaluation of your case. Call 1-888-749-7428 or fill out our online consultation form to get in contact with a legal professional today. We will be there when you call.