Mediation Compassionate in Our Approach.
Decisive in Our Strategy.

We develop strong cases and help guide our clients into establishing a firm footing into the next phase of their life.

Carlsbad Mediation Lawyers

Divorce and Family Mediation

Aside from traditional family law litigation, at Griffith, Young & Lass we also help families through their divorce via uncontested mediation. A divorce can go one of two routes: mediation or litigation. Mediation, if successful, is generally exponentially cheaper and much faster than a litigated contested divorce.

If you are interested in using mediation to complete your divorce in Carlsbad, call us at (858) 371-5569 to discuss your options. Or, if you’d prefer, you can reach us online by submitting a contact form here.

What to Consider When Preparing for Your First Mediation Session

Mediation is a great option for those couples who are able to sit down, set emotions aside and agree to something that works for both sides. You have to remember going into mediation that nobody is a winner in a divorce. The ability to compromise is essential for mediation to be successful.

Even if you and your spouse are at odds about the terms of the divorce, you may still be able to avoid trial by consulting with a mediator. As an impartial third party, a mediator can help frame the discussion of contested issues so that both you and your spouse can arrive at an agreement. While mediation may not resolve every dispute, progress can often lead to a concrete settlement.

The mediation process will be used to cover all aspects of the divorce, including:

Child custody and parenting plan
Child support and spousal support
Property division

While retaining your own, independent family lawyer when going through mediation is not required, having one often proves to be very helpful in ensuring that your best interests are considered during the process—especially in complex asset cases.

Partner Amy Lass is our primary mediation specialist at GYL:

“I often recommend mediation for my clients because they will have a direct say in arriving at their settlement rather than having a judge tell them how to parent their children or pay their bills. In many cases, the courtroom isn’t necessary for a divorce. Many couples are willing to work toward a settlement on their own with the guidance of our legal counsel.”

Pros and Cons to Using Divorce Mediation Rather than Trial

There are many advantages to avoiding a divorce trial. Avoiding a fight in court typically leads to a better long-term relationship with your ex-spouse – something that is particularly desirable if you have children. In the absence of a trial, the divorce process is often quicker, cheaper, and more private. In addition, you’ll have more control over the terms of the divorce since a judge will not be making the decisions.

There are times, though, when a divorce trial might be preferable to an agreement, mediation, collaboration, or negotiation. For example, if you believe that your spouse is hiding assets or income, a subpoena might be necessary. Litigation is your only opportunity to compel financial disclosure. In addition, if your spouse has a history of domestic violence or drug or alcohol abuse, a trial is often necessary.

If you are considering a divorce and are interested in discussing alternatives to a trial, call GYL to learn about your options: (858) 371-5569. Our attorneys are some of the best in the field, and we would be happy to help you through the divorce mediation process. To reach us online, click here.

Our Results Speak for Themselves

Over 100 5-Star Reviews Throughout Our Social Media Platforms

It was the best decision I’ve made yet and hopefully, it will be yours too.
“She doesn’t back down from anyone. It was the best decision I’ve made yet and hopefully, it will be yours too.”
- Ian R.
Understanding, accessible, and I was very happy with the outcome of my case. If I could give a higher rating I would!
“Easy to work with, forthcoming about the process, set realistic expectations, and always kept cost in mind.”
- Jennifer P.
All three lawyers worked together on the issues surrounding my case, which helped greatly when I was in need of answers or support.
“The GYL team is always prompt at returning calls & emails. From personal experience, I can tell you that they will not step away from your case until it's finished.”
- Kelsey L.
I couldn’t have made it without them! I highly recommend them!
“GYL has been an extraordinary support and backing in my divorce. Being a male in the military, the process for divorce and custody is difficult. GYL was extremely helpful, and I was able to full custody of my children. That alone is such a monumental feat.”
- Frankie S.
Worth every penny! My custody case went as stress-free as it could possibly be.
“I hate seeing anyone go through custody battles but if you’re in that situation and need someone who is trustworthy and great at what they do, then I swear this is the place to get the help!”
- Emily B.
I highly recommend GYL if you are ever in need of a family law attorney.
“No matter who I corresponded with they were always knowledgeable of my case and quick to respond.”
- Kimberley F.
Highly professional and supportive in a very uncertain time in my life.
“My clearance was granted without any additional issues. I'd recommend this legal team to any Soldier needing help with their clearance.”
- K. Brooks
Always willing to listen to your concerns. I would highly recommend.
“Compassionate and kind, however, he will fight for you and your best interests. He is calm and calculated and extremely smart.”
- Ann M.
Extremely helpful, responsive, and reasonable and got the job done amidst tenuous circumstances.
“She and her team were extremely compassionate, sensitive with me while concurrently advocating strongly on my behalf.”
- Jeremy R.
I felt like she was practical and knowledgeable and most importantly, she listened.
“The professional and succinct assistance was a much-needed breath of fresh air in the maze of hurdles and complications with our family law case.”
- David R.

Meet Our Team

Honest. Fearless. Bold.

John N. Griffith, Esq., CFLS
Catie E. Young, Esq., CFLS
Amy J. Lass, Esq., CFLS
Shirin Asgari, Esq.
Eric Cowdery, Esq.
Jeffrey Wittliff, Esq.
Joshua Yee, Esq.
Shaudi Malekzadeh, Esq.

Meet our team

Why GYL?

Turn to a Team that Does It Best

We're Leaders in Our Field
From case planning to preparation, to superior courtroom presence, our clients can be sure that they will walk into the Courtroom prepared and with the best chance of success.
Client Centered & Results Oriented
Our representation is tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. We deploy the GYL strategic case trajectory dynamic to ensure the best chance at success at the most reasonable cost.
Brilliant, Hard-Working & Honest
We don't believe in wasting our client's time and money. Helping people is what drives us to excel at our craft. We first identify the goals and interests of each client, we then develop an efficient and effective case plan aimed at achieving those goals.
Responsible & Ethical Practices
We believe in a responsible and ethical practice and stick to our values regardless of the situation. We're transparent and don't just tell our clients what they want to hear, unless it's what we believe, even if it may deter them from moving forward. We stand by our team's expertise and will always be upfront and honest with our clients.

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