San Diego Divorce Mediation and Separation
No two marriages are the same. Many couples face different challenges than friends or relatives who have gone through divorce, separation, or other family legal issues. Today, many marital conflicts are being resolved through out-of-court settlements or through collaborative lawyers in San Diego.
At The Law Offices of Mark A. Reed, our lawyers are skilled in handling family law cases through San Diego divorce mediation. We can also discuss the option of a San Diego legal separation instead of divorce, if you believe separation may be more to your advantage.
San Diego divorce mediation
A San Diego divorce mediator is a neutral third party who helps a divorcing couple express their views and reach a settlement about contested issues. A mediator does not advise either party, but explains the law so both spouses understand how it relates to the case. Mediators may act as a resource, offering suggestions and strategies based experiences gained from helping many other couples. A mediator’s job is to facilitate a negotiated settlement acceptable to both parties.
Unlike litigation where lawyers do all the talking in court, both spouses have the chance to air their views in mediation. They are not subjected to an adversarial courtroom setting where they watch a battle ensue and wonder which of them will emerge as the villain. Mediation is conducted in an informal setting. It is generally far less stressful, less time-consuming, and much more economical than litigation. Spouses are in control of the outcome rather than a judge.
San Diego legal separation
When a couple legally separates, they are still legally married even though they no longer have a marital relationship. Advantages a legal separation in San Diego may offer include:
- Time to see if reconciliation is possible while living apart
- Ability to retain medical, pension, military, and social security benefits
- Adherence to religious practices that do not allow divorce
- Control over child custody, child and spousal support, and property division
- Formal start of separation that can be used as a precedent if divorce occurs
Discuss divorce mediation and legal separation in San Diego
Speaking with a lawyer gives you the opportunity to get your questions answered, better understand which laws affect your case, and learn about your options. We offer a free consultation to discuss your issues and whether divorce mediation or a legal separation is right for you. Call 888-819-2465 today or contact The Law Offices of Mark A. Reed online and find out how we can help.