Carlsbad Family Law Attorneys
Child Custody Mediation Compassionate in Our Approach, Decisive in Our Strategy

Child Custody Mediation Lawyers in Carlsbad

In-House Child Custody Mediation Services

At Griffith, Young & Lass, we want to help you find a peaceful resolution to your child custody disagreements. With child custody mediation, you can bring legal disputes to an absolute end with the assistance of a trained and experienced divorce mediator—and, best of all, you’ll never have to step foot in a courtroom.

Take advantage of our in-house child custody mediation services by contacting us at (858) 371-5569 or submitting an online contact form here.

Advantages of Child Custody Mediation

  • Calm Discussions. Divorcing couples with children tend to prefer mediation for child custody disputes because the sessions are non-adversarial, unlike divorce court. Instead, couples can work together to bring about an amicable resolution to all conflicts without anger and emotion getting in the way.
  • No Judging. Mediators are not trial judges. Instead, mediation professionals remain neutral third parties who aren’t invested in either side. A skilled mediator can offer a solution more quickly than any judge. Mediation also tends to be faster than divorce court, which can drag on for months or years.
  • Setting a Good Example. When you choose child custody mediation, you are doing your part to set the tone for the relationship moving forward. Though you and your spouse have parted ways, you still need to maintain proper communication for the sake of the children. Studies show that children tend to fare better when divorced parents cooperate and communicate openly. By selecting mediation, you are setting excellent examples for your children, which is beneficial for the whole family.

How a Child Custody Mediator Can Save You Money

When you work with a divorce mediator, you are only charged a flat fee. This is a stark contrast to the thousands of dollars you would have to pay in attorneys and court costs for the average divorce. During the child custody mediation process, the mediator will help both parents work through all the available options to reach a fair and fast settlement they can be happy with.

Advice for a Calmer & Fairer Child Custody Mediation Process

  • Go into the meditation sessions fully prepared. The overall goal of mediation is to allow both spouses to present their cases calmly and with the purpose of coming to a peaceful resolution for all divorce issues, including child custody. For best results, show up to the meetings with your child custody plan in hand. This should include a proposal for child custody, along with a time-sharing plan. You might also want to bring along a calendar that identifies school holidays, your work schedule, and a list of your child’s activities. Just because you bring a plan to your mediation sessions doesn’t mean you will always get your way. Plan on being flexible while keeping a business-like attitude if you hope to have the best mediation experience.
  • Keep calm when your spouse can’t seem to agree on child custody issues. The divorce process can be hard on everyone, which means tempers can flare. During mediation, it is up to both parties to remain level-headed so you can work out your differences together. Talk with your spouse and find out if they want a fair resolution, then schedule a mediation session to settle the divorce and any child custody issues fairly and easily.
  • Collect necessary child records so you remain fully prepared for mediation. Your divorce mediator will need to dig into the details of your case in order to present various child custody scenarios. Help your mediator gather the necessary information by providing all applicable school and health records. These documents help the mediator guide you and your spouse to a settlement that doesn’t alter the kids’ current lifestyles, medical coverage, or schooling.
  • Be open-minded about discussing time-sharing options with your spouse. When presented with one or more child custody scenarios, you and your spouse need to examine and consider those arrangements without getting angry or defensive. Feel free to voice your concerns and ask plenty of questions. That is what this time is for.
  • Track everything with a child custody journal. Your mediator might request details of the time you and the other parent share with the children. A child custody journal can be used to track dates, details, and children’s comments on how you care for them. With this information in hand, the mediator will be more adequately prepared to guide both you and your spouse to an amicable child custody arrangement.
  • When making divorce mediation decisions, always do what’s best for the kids. When discussing child custody, you must do what’s best for the children. Work with your spouse to find a child custody arrangement that suits both parties, but that also impacts the children’s lives as little as possible. Keep any animosity between you and your spouse from hindering the child custody mediation process. Every decision you make should be focused on creating a stable future for both you and your children.

GYL Child Custody Mediation Attorneys

The best way to prepare for divorce and child custody mediation is by aligning with an expert attorney. Our team at GYL consists of two certified family law specialists and a group of some of the most talented and brilliant lawyers in Carlsbad. We have committed our professional lives to helping families find legal solutions that work for their new situation and we would love to do the same for you.

Start your child custody mediation today by calling us at (858) 371-5569 or contacting us online.

Meet Our Team 

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

    Partner

    John Griffith has practiced exclusively in the area of family law since 2009. John is a Certified Family Law Specialist certified as an expert in the area of family law by the California Board of Legal Specialization. Prior to opening Griffith, Young & Lass, he worked as the managing partner of one of the largest family law firms in North County San Diego.
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    John N. Griffith, Esq., CFLS Photo
  • Catie E. Young, Esq., CFLS Catie E. Young, Esq., CFLS

    Partner

    Catie E. Young excels in child custody cases and move-away trials. She has a unique approach to child custody cases and clients of Griffith, Young & Lass tend to gravitate toward her in these cases. Since joining the firm, she has continuously brought her zeal and compassion to representing clients in child custody and domestic violence cases, and in December 2011, she became a partner at Griffith, Young & Lass.
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    Catie E. Young, Esq., CFLS Photo
  • Amy J. Lass, Esq., CFLS Amy J. Lass, Esq., CFLS

    Partner

    Amy Lass, a certified family law specialist, was born in New York and raised in San Diego, California. Amy graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2003 with a B.S. in Economics with a concentration in Enterprise Accounting. Amy went on to earn her law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and graduated cum laude in 2006.
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    Amy J. Lass, Esq., CFLS Photo
  • Shirin Asgari, Esq., CFLS Shirin Asgari, Esq., CFLS

    Associate

    Attorney Shirin Asgari has a broad spectrum of legal experience and has handled matters in family law, criminal law, business law, and national security law. Currently, she focuses on family law matters and is a strong advocate for the rights of her clients. She dedicates time and attention to the needs of each client and the unique circumstances their case presents.
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    Shirin Asgari, Esq., CFLS Photo
  • Eric Cowdery, Esq. Eric Cowdery, Esq.

    Associate

    Eric Cowdery earned his bachelor’s and Master’s degrees before earning his JD from Golden Gate University as part of the Honors Lawyering Program. He was admitted to the California Bar Association in 2013 and has been working diligently in the field ever since. Taking a personalized approach to each case, Eric Cowdery is committed to working with clients to help them through the often confusing and complex legal process of divorce.

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    Eric Cowdery, Esq. Photo
  • Jeffrey Wittliff, Esq. Jeffrey Wittliff, Esq.

    Associate

    Jeffrey Wittliff is extremely attentive to his cases and believes in thorough preparation and the value of regular client communication. Behind the scenes, he has an extensive background in research related to all areas of family law, propounding discovery when necessary, and negotiation to settle cases with opposing parties.
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    Jeffrey Wittliff, Esq. Photo
  • Joshua Yee, Esq. Joshua Yee, Esq.

    Associate

    Attorney Joshua Yeereceived his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, from the University of California, San Diego. Joshua went on to receive his Juris Doctor degree from University of San Francisco. His experience working with a local Certified Family Law Specialist solidified his desire to become a family law attorney. Since becoming an attorney, Josh has exclusively practiced in family law.
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    Joshua Yee, Esq. Photo
  • Shaudi Malekzadeh, Esq. Shaudi Malekzadeh, Esq.

    Associate

    Shaudi Malekzadeh is a Carlsbad family law attorney at Griffith, Young & Lass, advocating for the rights and interests of Southern California families in a variety of family law cases, such as child custody, alimony, spousal support, and the division of community property. She is committed to delivering effective legal representation to our clients, aggressively advocating for their legal rights, and offering compassionate legal advice.
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    Shaudi Malekzadeh, Esq. Photo

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. 

Get Started Today

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