Mediation
Settle it at the table, not in the courtroom
In mediation, the two of you sit down with a neutral lawyer and work out the agreement yourselves. It’s usually faster and less costly than a trial, and the decisions stay yours.
Safiya Rahmat mediates divorces, parenting plans and support agreements. As the mediator she represents neither of you: she keeps the conversation moving, explains what a court would likely look at and writes up what you agree.
Each of you can have your own lawyer review the draft before you sign. If you’d rather have one of our lawyers beside you in a mediation someone else runs, we do that too.
How a mediation runs here
A joint first meeting
Both of you, one hour, to see whether mediation fits and what it would cover.
Sessions of about two hours
Usually three or four, at the office or by video, at a pace you both can keep.
A written agreement
A draft each of you can take to your own lawyer before anyone signs.
Filing it with the court
We prepare the papers so a judge can approve the agreement at a short hearing.
Mediation, honestly answered
What if we can’t agree?
Then mediation ends and either of you can go to court. What you say in mediation generally can’t be used as evidence later.
Is mediation right if there has been abuse?
Often it isn’t. If you’re afraid of your spouse, tell us on the first call and we’ll talk through safer options.
Do we split the cost?
Most couples do, but you can agree on any split. The fee is set out in writing before the first session.
Ask about a joint first meeting
Either of you can call. We’ll explain how mediation works to both of you, in English or Spanish.