Divorce Mediation

Yes. Even if your case has already been filed in court, there is often sufficient time to mediate your case. In many California courts, judges encourage mediation and you or your attorney can ask the court to allow time for mediation. Mr. Lazar works on many cases that are already in the court process and helps the parties and their lawyers bring the case to a successful settlement without the need for a trial.

No. You can start mediation at any time—before filing, after filing, or even during a court case. In fact, starting early often helps reduce conflict and cost.

No, you don’t need to hire a lawyer before starting mediation. However, many people choose to have an attorney to consult with or to have the attorney present during the mediation sessions. Even if your case is already in the court system you can schedule a mediation session that includes the parties and their attorneys to attempt to work out a settlement.

Not always—but it’s successful in the majority of cases, especially when both people wish to reach an agreed-upon settlement and avoid going to court to resolve their case. Even if you don’t reach agreement on everything, mediation often helps narrow the issues and reduce the time and cost of court.

It depends on the complexity of your situation and how willing both parties are to work together. Some couples finish in just a few sessions, while others may take a few months. On average, divorce mediation takes significantly less time than a court-based divorce.

Yes. In California, mediation is a private and confidential process. What’s said in mediation cannot be used in court, and the mediator cannot be called to testify. This allows for open, honest conversation without fear of it being used against you later.

You and your spouse meet with the mediator (together or separately) to discuss the issues that need resolution—like how to divide property, handle debts, arrange parenting time, and plan financial support. The mediator helps keep the conversation productive and guides you toward workable solutions. In some cases it can be helpful for each party to remain in a separate room and have the mediator go between them to confer with one party at a time.

You don’t have to sign anything you’re not comfortable with. The Mediation process is entirely voluntary. You can take the agreement to an attorney for review before signing, and changes can still be made until both sides feel the terms are acceptable.

That’s okay. The mediator is trained to work with high-conflict situations. You can still mediate even if communication is tough—some sessions can even be done in separate rooms having the mediator go back and forth conferring with each party. Mediation can also be held online using Zoom if requested.

Divorce mediation is a guided, cooperative process where you and your spouse work with a neutral third party (the mediator) to reach agreements on issues like property, finances, and child custody—without going to court. The goal is to resolve differences respectfully and reach a mutually acceptable divorce agreement.

Mediation is usually far less expensive than going to court. Costs depend on how complex your situation is and how many sessions you need. You pay for the mediator’s time, and while it can be helpful for each party to have their own lawyer to consult with, you are not paying for two separate lawyers to litigate drawn-out court battles. Mediation can save thousands of dollars as well as the stress of protracted court proceedings.

The mediator is a neutral facilitator—not a judge or advocate. Their job is to keep the conversation focused, fair, and respectful. They help identify solutions, explain legal topics in plain language, and guide you through the process. They do not take sides or make decisions for you.

You both do. Mediation gives each of you an equal voice in the process. Unlike court, where a judge makes decisions, mediation empowers you to reach your own agreements with the help of a neutral guide.

Mediation is faster, less stressful, more private, and often much more affordable than going to court. It allows you to stay in control of the outcome instead of letting a judge decide. Many couples also find it’s a better way to protect family relationships—especially when children are involved.