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Mediation

Mediation in Ventura

Mediation is a legal procedure with the end goal of terminating the participant's divorce. In a mediation proceeding, a mediator will help all parties reach a settlement to each element of their dispute. One of our Ventura divorce attorneys can act as a neutral third-party throughout all legal family law disputes. We can help you arrive at a positive and cost-effective solution to keep familial relationships intact throughout the process. Divorce mediation is an option that all couples can consider, but is only beneficial to those who can respectfully communicate and arrive at agreements without court involvement.

How Mediation Works

Mediation will take place among several meetings which can last for a few hours. Although mediation is an informal process, there are six stages in a typical proceeding. Following is a summary of each of the stages involved in mediation:

  • Stage One: Mediation commences with the mediator's opening statement. Disputants, the divorcing parties, are seated at a table and the mediator will introduce everyone, explain the process, express the goal of mediation, and encourage both parties to pursue an agreeable settlement with minimal dispute.
  • Stage Two: Disputants will then provide their opening statements. Every party can discuss his or her perception of the dispute and how it has affected them personally. No party is permitted to interrupt the other while he or she is speaking.
  • Stage Three: In the third stage, a joint discussion will take place. The mediator can encourage discussion regarding what was said in the opening statements. During this stage, the mediator will determine the specific issues which must be addressed.
  • Stage Four: During the private caucus, each party is given the chance to meet with the mediator to discuss the argument of his or her position discussed in the joint discussion. New ideas for settlement can be brought up by the mediator.
  • Stage Five: Joint negotiation takes place in the fifth stage. After the caucuses are finished, the mediator can rejoin the parties to directly negotiate with one another. Both parties are encouraged to act in a respectful manner with one another.
  • Stage Six: Mediation concludes in the closure stage. In cases where agreement is reached, the mediator can put provisions in writing. When no agreement is made, the mediator can discuss the options to continue with divorce.

Benefit of Mediation

Divorce can be very stressful and frustrating for each member of a family. With the many legal issues you must face, family relationships can be further damaged to cause unnecessary complications when litigation is pursued. As a legal process, it can be expensive, time consuming, and an overall aggravating experience. Mediation, on the other hand, can save money and time for all individuals involved. Successful mediation can often save family relationships as it helps all involved parties come to an agreement involving disputed areas of a divorce.

The process of mediation is controlled by the parties involved. If you choose to mediate your divorce, you can have a much greater level of control. You and your current spouse cannot be forced to accept a verdict that is not favorable. As your mediator, our lawyers will assist each party in the process of reaching a settlement, but we do not make the decision. At any point during the mediation process, either party can terminate the process. Generally, however, both parties view mediation as a profitable choice and are able to complete a divorce agreement through this process. As a confidential procedure, each party can freely negotiate without fear of their statements being made public. If mediation seems to be a beneficial process for your specific case, contact our firm today!

Hear It From Our Clients

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    "The lawyers at Cutter & Lax, specifically Matthew Lax, are very intelligent, decisive and thorough when it comes to caring for their clients."
    Throughout my whole experience working with this firm, I always felt welcomed, comforted and supported. The lawyers at Cutter & Lax, specifically Matthew Lax, are very intelligent, decisive and thorough when it comes to caring for their clients. This is the only firm I would ever feel comfortable returning to when a situation presented itself. All around fantastic experience and outcome!
    - Danielle A.
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    The life experience that I am going thru right now is extremely tough! Being an active duty military member and going thru a divorce is something I don't wish on anyone, but having these guys on your side, especially Nelson Cutter makes the process much less painful. He is very knowledgeable with military law and what my rights are as a active duty military member. Thank you!
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    "Matthew Lax and his partner are very good attorneys and when going through something as unpleasant as a divorce, it's good to have them on your side!"
    Cutter & Lax is a great law firm. I have a lot of family and friends that are satisfied clients. The Encino office is conveniently located and you are always greeted with a friendly smile. Matthew Lax and his partner are very good attorneys and when going through something as unpleasant as a divorce, it's good to have them on your side!
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    "Received excellent counsel representation during my military divorce."
    Consummate professionals! Received excellent counsel representation during my military divorce. I highly recommend their services
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    Matthew Lax made the experience of going thru a very difficult divorce very smooth and he was so knowledgeable and helpful and always available for any problems. He got me a very generous settlement that I didn't expect. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
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    Had a wonderful experience with this law firm, Matthew Lax in particular. He is very knowledgeable and fights for you without creating unnecessary work and hardship in the process. He was always responsive and really listened to my concerns and goals and worked towards achieving them. Got a great result for me!
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    He very knowledgeable about the law and was able to give me his opinion through his experience with the law and the courtroom. He was patient in explaining the positives and negatives of the legal pursuits, along with the risks. I was especially impressed with his control and approach in the courtroom. He was direct, to the point, and would not back down. He won't let go. He is excellent at arguing the law and questioning witnesses.
    - Former Client