Carlsbad Family Law Attorneys
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 in San Diego County - (858) 371-5569

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.

Are you interested in using mediation for a peaceful divorce in Carlsbad? Call our divorce mediation lawyers us at (858) 371-5569 to discuss your options or fill out our contact form here.

How Do You Choose the Right Mediator?

To experience the best outcome, you should look for a mediator who is trained to handle the various issues that can quickly complicate a divorce proceeding, such as child custody, visitation, and support.

Your mediator should be trained to resolve conflicts and possess extensive knowledge of your state’s divorce laws. Your mediator should also be willing to work with you to help you and your spouse facilitate a meaningful conversation about all pertinent issues.

Above all, look for a mediator you and your spouse can both work with. The process of searching for a mediator should be done together to ensure you are both comfortable with the person who will be moderating the negotiations in your divorce. You can hire a divorce mediation attorney to represent your specific interests in these matters.

Should I Consider a Private Judge?

You might benefit from having your case mediated by a private judge. This alternative can potentially save parties from the stress of going through a protracted legal battle and potentially thousands of dollars in legal expenses. In California, the courts enlist the services of legal professionals—such as experienced attorneys and retired judges—to serve as “private judges”—also known as judges pro tempore. Private judges can take the place of a public judge in formal legal proceedings, but in California they can also act as mediators.

What to Consider When Preparing for Your First Mediation Session

Divorce 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 divorce 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 mediation lawyer for divorce 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.”

Divorce Mediation vs. Litigation – Pros and Cons

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.

Are you are considering a divorce and are interested in alternatives to a trial? Call GYL at (858) 371-5569 to learn about your options! Our attorneys are some of the best in the field and we would be happy to help you through the divorce mediation process. Click here to reach us online.

Our Results Speak for Themselves

Over 100 5-Star Reviews Throughout Our Social Media Platforms
  • The way John presented our case was pure genius with meticulous preparation and deliberate action in court.

    “We were referred to John Griffith at GYL by our former attorney. I specifically was looking for an aggressive attorney that would yield results. John, Josh, and the firm performed flawlessly, and did ...”

    - MoMo M.
  • I would highly recommend Griffith, Young & Lass to anyone looking for ethical, honest, hard-working and skillful lawyers.

    “I would highly recommend Griffith, Young & Lass to anyone looking for ethical, honest, hard-working and skillful lawyers (I would stress these are actually rare qualities within the legal industry and ...”

    - Scott G.
  • You cannot find a better law firm.

    “I cannot say enough good things about John Griffith and this law firm. Each person i interacted with was responsive, intelligent, thoughtful and professional. Attorney Griffith worked very hard to ...”

    - Michelle P.
  • 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.
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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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