Mediation

Rarely does a judge arrive at a solution to a family law problem, such as divorce or property settlement, that is mutually satisfying to both parties. It is much more likely that the couple themselves—despite the difficulties of their situation—will be able to craft a resolution that meets their needs and goals. The alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes of mediation and collaborative law are best suited for accomplishing these tasks in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

At the Law Offices of Shirley D. Jacobs our trained mediators have helped hundreds of women and men reach agreements goals. Contact our office to schedule a free initial consultation with a Walnut Creek, Fremont, or Pleasanton mediation lawyer.

Why Choose Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third-party helps the parties discuss difficult issues and negotiate an agreement. Basic steps in the process include gathering information, framing the issues, developing options, negotiating, and formalizing agreements. 

Mediation empowers the parties to create their own solutions.  It is generally much less costly and time-consuming than litigating a divorce case in court. Also, when divorcing parents are able to work out their own agreements, they are far more likely to comply with them.

When Should You Choose Mediation?

• To effectively engage in the process of mediation, both parties must be able to talk about their needs and thoughts. It’s okay if you don’t agree or if you are mad or upset, but you must have some degree of trust in each other or the process will not work.
   
• Both parties must be willing to work in good faith on reaching an agreement. They must be committed to talking honestly with the other person.
   
• Ideally the two parties should have comparable power in the relationship. If there is a huge power differential, the collaborative law process may be a better choice.

What Does the Mediator Do?

Both Shirley Jacobs are trained mediators with many years of experience. They handle more than 50 mediations every year. As mediators, their role is to facilitate communication between the couple so that the couple can reach a mutually agreeable decision.

Some couples come into our office on good terms, having reached many agreements between themselves but having conflict in one or more areas. A mediator can be very helpful in the process of resolving those conflict areas without the expense of going to court.

A mediator does not judge the fairness of a decision. The mediator’s role is to help the couple reach their own settlement. Once that settlement is reached, mediation lawyers Jacobs will prepare the agreement in a document that will be acceptable to the courts.

For a free initial consultation with a Walnut Creek, Fremont, or Pleasanton mediation lawyer at the Law Offices of Shirley D. Jacobs, please contact our offices.

The attorneys at the Family Law Offices of Shirley D. Jacobs provide comprehensive family law services to residents of the East Bay area of California, including Alameda County and Contra Costa County and the nearby cities of Martinez, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Livermore, San Ramon, Union City, Hayward, San Leandro, Alameda, Emeryville, Dublin, Berkeley and Oakland.