What is mediation?
Mediation is a private, respectful, and cost-effective way to resolve the important issues in your divorce without going to court. If you and your spouse are able to agree on some or most aspects of your divorce/separation—but need support to finalize the rest—mediation could be the right solution for you.
In mediation, a neutral third party—your attorney mediator—guides both spouses through the legal and emotional complexities of divorce. This process can include working through issues such as:
- Division of property, debts, and retirement accounts
- Child custody and parenting schedules
- Child and spousal support
- Changing your legal marital status
- And any other unique issue that may be affecting your family
Our mediators are skilled attorneys trained to keep the conversation focused, identify any power imbalances, and ensure that both voices are heard. We facilitate open, productive communication to help both parties reach fair and lasting agreements—without stepping into a courtroom.
Unlike arbitration, mediation empowers you and your spouse to make your own decisions. Our role is not to decide for you, but to guide you toward an agreement that reflects your unique needs and values. We’ll help you understand how the law might apply to your situation, but your final agreement doesn’t have to follow a strict legal formula—as long as both parties are satisfied.
We’ll also draft your agreement in clear, written terms, giving you time to review, reflect, and make sure it feels right before anything is signed.
At our firm, we use our legal knowledge, communication skills, and compassion to support both parties through what can be an emotional process. Mediation helps you avoid the stress, time, and cost of litigation—while giving you more control over your future.
If you’re considering divorce and want a process that prioritizes respect, cooperation, and resolution, call us today to learn how mediation can work for you.
In mediation, a neutral third party—your attorney mediator—guides both spouses through the legal and emotional complexities of divorce. This process can include working through issues such as:
- Division of property, debts, and retirement accounts
- Child custody and parenting schedules
- Child and spousal support
- Changing your legal marital status
- And any other unique issue that may be affecting your family
Our mediators are skilled attorneys trained to keep the conversation focused, identify any power imbalances, and ensure that both voices are heard. We facilitate open, productive communication to help both parties reach fair and lasting agreements—without stepping into a courtroom.
Unlike arbitration, mediation empowers you and your spouse to make your own decisions. Our role is not to decide for you, but to guide you toward an agreement that reflects your unique needs and values. We’ll help you understand how the law might apply to your situation, but your final agreement doesn’t have to follow a strict legal formula—as long as both parties are satisfied.
We’ll also draft your agreement in clear, written terms, giving you time to review, reflect, and make sure it feels right before anything is signed.
At our firm, we use our legal knowledge, communication skills, and compassion to support both parties through what can be an emotional process. Mediation helps you avoid the stress, time, and cost of litigation—while giving you more control over your future.
If you’re considering divorce and want a process that prioritizes respect, cooperation, and resolution, call us today to learn how mediation can work for you.
What are some benefits to mediation?
There are many advantages to choosing mediation over courtroom litigation—and they go far beyond saving money. Mediation gives you and your spouse the space to resolve important matters on your own terms, in a private, respectful, and supportive setting. Here are just a few of the most important benefits:
**Privacy** – Mediation is entirely confidential. You and your spouse will meet with the mediator in the privacy of our office, not a public courtroom. If an agreement is reached, you may never have to step foot in front of a judge. This gives you more comfort, security, and emotional ease throughout the process.
**Affordability** – Even with both parties consulting with independent attorneys, mediation typically costs a fraction of what courtroom litigation does. Litigation can quickly run into tens of thousands of dollars per side. Mediation offers a more efficient and cost-conscious way to reach a fair outcome.
**Control and Empowerment** – Mediation puts the power in your hands. You and your spouse make the decisions—not a judge, arbitrator, or court evaluator. You control the pace, the process, and the outcome. Sessions are scheduled at your convenience, and the timing of the case is tailored to your needs.
**Lower Conflict, Healthier Outcomes** – Mediation is especially beneficial when children are involved. It promotes cooperation rather than confrontation, reducing stress and helping preserve a working relationship between parents. Our mediators help guide the conversation productively, focusing on shared goals and mutual understanding.
**A Calmer, More Manageable Process** – Mediation allows you to address issues one step at a time, dedicating as much time as you need to each topic. This is a far cry from the courtroom, where judges may issue multiple orders in a matter of minutes after only brief argument. In mediation, you’re never rushed or surprised. You move through the process at your own pace, with clarity and support.
Mediation offers a path forward that prioritizes dignity, mutual respect, and sustainable solutions. If you’re considering divorce or legal separation, call us today to find out whether mediation is the right choice for your family.
**Privacy** – Mediation is entirely confidential. You and your spouse will meet with the mediator in the privacy of our office, not a public courtroom. If an agreement is reached, you may never have to step foot in front of a judge. This gives you more comfort, security, and emotional ease throughout the process.
**Affordability** – Even with both parties consulting with independent attorneys, mediation typically costs a fraction of what courtroom litigation does. Litigation can quickly run into tens of thousands of dollars per side. Mediation offers a more efficient and cost-conscious way to reach a fair outcome.
**Control and Empowerment** – Mediation puts the power in your hands. You and your spouse make the decisions—not a judge, arbitrator, or court evaluator. You control the pace, the process, and the outcome. Sessions are scheduled at your convenience, and the timing of the case is tailored to your needs.
**Lower Conflict, Healthier Outcomes** – Mediation is especially beneficial when children are involved. It promotes cooperation rather than confrontation, reducing stress and helping preserve a working relationship between parents. Our mediators help guide the conversation productively, focusing on shared goals and mutual understanding.
**A Calmer, More Manageable Process** – Mediation allows you to address issues one step at a time, dedicating as much time as you need to each topic. This is a far cry from the courtroom, where judges may issue multiple orders in a matter of minutes after only brief argument. In mediation, you’re never rushed or surprised. You move through the process at your own pace, with clarity and support.
Mediation offers a path forward that prioritizes dignity, mutual respect, and sustainable solutions. If you’re considering divorce or legal separation, call us today to find out whether mediation is the right choice for your family.
Answering Questions to Better Help you Make the Right Choice for Your Family
Is Mediation Legally Binding?Once you reach an agreement and it’s signed and submitted to the court, it becomes legally binding—just like a court order. Our attorneys draft clear, enforceable agreements that reflect your wishes and stand up in court, giving you confidence in your future.
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Can I Still Have a Lawyer During Mediation?Yes, and we encourage it. You can consult with an independent attorney at any point in the process to make sure your rights are protected. Our firm supports this by offering accessible, clear legal advice when needed—without disrupting the mediation process or inflaming conflict.
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What if Mediation Doesn't Work?Mediation is voluntary. If it doesn’t lead to a full agreement, you can still pursue traditional litigation. The work you’ve done in mediation often simplifies the court process later. And with our team by your side, you’ll be supported whether you settle collaboratively or transition into court advocacy.
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How Long Does the Mediation Process take?Every case is different, but mediation is typically much faster than going through court. We move at your pace, not the court’s calendar, and focus on efficient, meaningful progress. Most clients find they resolve issues in significantly less time than a contested case would take.
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Whats the difference between Mediation and Collaborative Divorce?In mediation, a neutral third party helps you and your spouse reach agreement together. In collaborative divorce, each spouse has an attorney, and all parties commit to resolving the case without going to court. If your case calls for a different approach, we’ll help you choose what’s best for your family.
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Why choose a Crabtree Law Attorney Mediator?Our mediators are also experienced family law attorneys. We bring legal insight, emotional intelligence, and a practical, respectful approach to every session. You’ll work with professionals who understand both the law and the emotional complexity of divorce—and who are committed to helping you move forward with dignity.
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Disclaimers: This web site is designed for general information only. Information posted on this site does not constitute legal advice. By accessing this site, you do not form an attorney-client relationship with Maria E. Crabtree. Family law is a state-specific practice, and Maria E. Crabtree only represents clients whose cases are within California's jurisdiction.
