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California Divorce Mediators

There's a less painful way to get divorced.

Mediation isn't just cheaper, it's a fundamentally different experience.

Side by side

Two very different ways to divorce.

Litigation

The traditional, adversarial path

  • Adversarial by design
  • A lawyer for each side
  • The court's schedule, not yours
  • Public court record
  • High, unpredictable cost
  • A judge decides, you lose control

Mediation with CDM

A calmer path, handled from home

  • Collaborative and cooperative
  • One neutral attorney-mediator
  • Your schedule, over secure video
  • Private and confidential
  • One flat fee, known upfront
  • You and your spouse decide

The difference

Why couples choose to mediate.

You control the outcome, not a judge

You and your spouse make the decisions about your family and finances. A stranger in a robe never imposes terms you didn't choose.

It costs a fraction of litigation, typically

One flat-fee retainer covers the whole case. There's no hourly meter and no second set of attorney bills, so the total is dramatically lower.

It's faster, weeks, not years

Without court backlogs and adversarial back-and-forth, most couples finish their working sessions in a matter of weeks rather than dragging on for years.

It's confidential, nothing goes on public record

Litigation plays out in public filings. Mediation keeps your finances and your family's private business out of the public record.

It's better for your kids

Less conflict and more cooperation means a healthier co-parenting relationship, and children who are spared the worst of an adversarial fight.

An honest look

Is mediation right for you?

Works well when…

Both parties are willing to communicate, even if it's difficult.

May not work when…

There's a history of domestic violence or a severe power imbalance.

Not sure if mediation is right for your situation? Talk to us, no commitment required.

Ready to move forward from home?

Schedule a free consultation with our team. No pressure, no commitment.