Divorce Mediation Frequently Asked Questions
Divorce mediation assists couples in creating an agreement to settle issues in their case. The mediator helps the parties identify and prioritize their needs and then address those needs in an organized and efficient manner.
What is addressed in Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation can cover many issues. Typically issues include child and spousal support, child custody and visitation, debt and asset division, childcare costs and retirement distribution. Mediation can help answer questions such as “Who is going to pay my bills? Who is going to stay in the house? How will we divide our assets?”
What do I bring to Divorce Mediation?
The most important thing you can bring to mediation is a positive attitude, open mind and a set of realistic goals. It is also important to approach mediation with reasonable concessions you are willing to make. You can expect a mutual compromise as to the outcome.
Is Dawn Dell’Acqua going to be my attorney?
Though Dawn Dell’Acqua is an attorney, if she is your mediator, she cannot be your attorney, even after mediation ends. If you would like to have Dawn Dell’Acqua as your attorney, please contact the Law Office of Dawn Dell’Acqua, APC to discuss that possibility.
How much will Divorce Mediation cost?
It is difficult to say exactly the cost of mediation because cases are different. Typically, mediation will cost between $1,000 and $6,000 per couple and will take between 2-5 mediation sessions, but this depends on the parties. Many of the services offered in mediation can be taken at your option. For example, it is up to you whether you want A New Start Mediation Center to draft a settlement agreement, other forms, or just to act as a mediator.
If I have filed for divorce, how soon will it be over?
There are no guarantees about when a divorce will be final, but when you meditate your disputes, a case can progress quickly, possibly concluding in as little as 90 days. However, in California, a court cannot dissolve the marital status until 6 months after acquiring jurisdiction over both parties. This is usually once the opposing party has been served. Without mediation, if you elect to go to court for orders, your case may not be resolved for at least a year or longer.
Is it okay that I already have an attorney?
Yes, many parties who are represented seek mediation to help settle their issues. However, A New Start Mediation Center requires that you and your attorney agree to and sign off on mediation.
Is San Diego Divorce Mediation right for me?
Mediation can be helpful in settling your family court case; however, mediation is not always appropriate. Mediation is not appropriate when the parties still have unresolved communication or personal issues that prevent them from working together effectively. If this is the case, then a traditional representation approach with one or both parties retaining counsel may be your best legal avenue. If you wish to discuss traditional representation and have Ms. Dell’Acqua as your attorney, please visit the website of the Law Office of Dawn Dell’Acqua, APC or contact the Law Office of Dawn Dell’Acqua, APC for a consultation.
Should I choose a mediator or a lawyer?
Mediation is appropriate when both parties are willing to discuss the issues to reach a resolution. If either party is unwilling to agree, it may be appropriate to hire a family lawyer for representation.
Law Office of Dawn Dell’Acqua is committed to giving you up to date information regarding Estate Planning, Family Law, and San Diego Divorce Mediation. Give us a call or send Email for an initial consultation: (619) 325-4726.