How Can a Certified Family Law Specialist Help in Divorce Mediation?
Posted in uncategorized on July 22, 2021
Divorce mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution. It can decrease the odds of you and your ex-spouse going to trial in a divorce case. Working with a certified family law specialist can help you in many ways during divorce mediation. A specialist has advanced knowledge of divorce and mediation law, as well as conflict resolution. To discuss your divorce case in more detail with a certified family law specialist in Solana Beach, contact Ratzer|Dobis today.
What Is a Certified Family Law Specialist?
A certified family law specialist is a licensed family law attorney who has taken several extra steps to become certified as a specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. These extra steps include taking additional courses in family law, passing a test that is similar to the bar but focused exclusively on family law, engaging in continuing education, and obtaining favorable evaluations by other attorneys and judges. This is a rigorous process; thus, attorneys who hold the title of certified family law specialists stand out in their field.
What Is Divorce Mediation?
Mediation during a divorce case gives a couple the chance to resolve matters related to their divorce on their own, without going to trial. Mediation is done in the presence of an unbiased third party known as a mediator. The mediator does not have the power to make a ruling at the end of mediation. Instead, he or she is there to resolve conflicts and facilitate compromise to help the couple come to a settlement agreement. Mediation is a popular choice for dispute resolution during divorce cases in California, as it is cheaper and faster than going to court.
Are Certified Family Law Specialists Required in Divorce Mediation?
No, it is not a legal requirement to hire an attorney or certified family law specialist for divorce mediation in California. You have the right to represent yourself during mediation if desired. However, attending mediation without a lawyer could put you at risk of accepting a settlement that is unfair to you – especially if your ex-spouse has hired a lawyer.
You may not fully understand your rights or know the best negotiation strategies to use during mediation for an optimal outcome. A certified family law specialist, on the other hand, will have a repertoire of negotiation skills and arguments to use on your behalf. Your lawyer can negotiate for a fair settlement with the opposing attorney, sparing you from having to work alone against your spouse.
A divorce case is often emotional. Being too emotionally invested during negotiations can put you at risk of giving up more than you should. If you are too unwilling to budge, on the other hand, you could end up in court. A certified family law specialist can prepare you for mediation, help you select a mediator, work with you to decide on a potential settlement, take care of confusing legal paperwork on your behalf and represent you during mediation to achieve the best possible outcome with minimal stress to you.
What’s the Best Way to Select a Certified Family Law Specialist?
If you wish to hire a certified family law specialist for your divorce mediation in Solana Beach, look for certain traits. First, make sure that the attorney is licensed, certified and in good standing with the State Bar of California. Then, look for relevant experience handling divorce mediation. Look for reviews of the specialist to see how he or she is viewed among clients. Finally, ask your friends and colleagues who have been through a divorce for referrals or recommendations.
The right attorney for you will understand your needs and have the power to pursue your goals using tailored legal strategies throughout your divorce case. For more information about divorce mediation and how a certified family law specialist can help, contact Ratzer|Dobis at (858) 793-7700 to request a free initial consultation.