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Divorce mediation is a flexible process that allows couples to address a wide range of issues related to their divorce.
Divorce mediation is a flexible process that allows couples to address a wide range of issues related to their divorce. The specific matters that can be discussed and resolved through mediation may vary depending on the unique circumstances of each case. However, here are some common issues that can be addressed in divorce mediation:
Post-Divorce Communication and Dispute Resolution
Mediation can also help establish guidelines for communication and dispute resolution after the divorce. This may include setting expectations for how parents will communicate about the children, as well as methods for resolving future disagreements or modifications to the divorce agreement.
Child Custody and Parenting Plans
Mediation is particularly valuable for developing comprehensive parenting plans that outline custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making processes for the children. Parents can discuss and create agreements regarding legal custody (decision-making authority), physical custody (where the children will reside), and visitation or parenting time.
Child Support
Mediation allows parents to discuss and establish child support arrangements, taking into account factors such as the income of both parents, the needs of the children, and any special circumstances. The mediator can facilitate discussions to ensure the child support agreement is fair and in accordance with relevant laws and guidelines.
Spousal Support or Alimony
Couples can negotiate and determine spousal support or alimony payments during divorce mediation. This includes discussing the amount, duration, and method of payment, taking into consideration factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning potential, and any financial needs or obligations.
Division of Assets and Debts
Mediation provides a platform for couples to negotiate and reach agreements on how to divide their marital property, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, and personal belongings. Debts accumulated during the marriage, such as mortgages, loans, and credit card debt, can also be addressed.
Transmutation Agreements
Transmutation agreements are a type of postnuptial agreement which allows married couples to alter the nature of the property they own for their benefit. For example, the couple can agree to change the property from community to separate property. Mediating this type of agreement can clarify ownership rights, provide tax advantages, and assist the couple in managing their assets.
Post-Judgment modification
If the custody or child/spousal support order entered in your divorce is no longer working, mediation provides a way for the divorced couple to reach an agreement on what changes need to be made to the court order. For example, if one parent gets remarried, mediation allows you to agree on how to revise the support order to accurately reflect these life changes, with the mediator ensuring the agreement is in accordance with relevant laws.
Paternity cases
Mediation provides a platform for establishing parentage, also known as paternity, and is the legal process of determining who the father of a child is. Establishing paternity is particularly relevant for children born to parents who are not married. A mediator can assist with establishing paternity, as well as custody, visitation or parenting time, and child support issues that are impacted by parentage.
Co-Parenting issues
A mediator can help parents understand what is expected of them under California’s confusing co-parenting laws. During mediation, parents can discuss and agree on co-parenting issues such as custody, child support, visitation rights, parental rights/obligations, payment of the child’s expenses, and more.
Tax Considerations
Mediation provides a forum for couples to address tax-related issues that arise from their divorce, such as filing status, exemptions, deductions, and the allocation of tax liabilities and refunds. They can work together to develop a plan that minimizes potential tax consequences.
Insurance and Health Coverage
Mediation allows couples to discuss and make decisions regarding health insurance coverage for themselves and their children. They can determine how premiums will be paid, who will provide insurance, and how future healthcare costs will be handled.
Contact Us
At California Divorce Mediators, our team has the compassionate attitude that you need when going through a very difficult time in your life. Our experienced mediation team has handled many divorces and divorce mediations. We strive to understand the unique issues you face in resolving your divorce. We also work to make the process convenient and effective for you. If you’re looking for a trustworthy divorce mediation firm, call us at (888) 258-8383, or fill out our Contact Form.
