Founding Attorney
Once you’ve taken the first steps and are committed to the process, had your initial session, and gathered your financial documents then it’s time to focus on the core issues you and your spouse will resolve in mediation.
At Off the Record Mediation Services LLC, we help couples across California clearly identify the matters they need to address. Doing so keeps the process organized, efficient, and focused on solutions not conflict.
Why Identifying the Right Issues Matters
Every divorce is unique, but most cases involve a few key topics that need to be worked through. By identifying these early, the mediator can structure the conversation around what matters most and help avoid emotional detours.
Clearly defined issues also ensure that:
- Nothing important is overlooked
- Time and resources are used efficiently
- Both parties feel heard and involved
- The final agreement covers all legal requirements
Common Issues Resolved in Divorce Mediation
Here’s a look at the major topics couples typically resolve through mediation:
1. Division of Property and Debts
Mediation helps you work through how to divide:
- Bank accounts
- Real estate (primary home, rental properties)
- Vehicles, furniture, and other personal property
- Retirement accounts, pensions, and investments
- Debts such as mortgages, credit cards, or loans
California is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally split 50/50 but mediation allows room for flexibility based on your unique needs.
2. Child Custody and Parenting Plans
If you share children, you’ll need to agree on:
- Physical custody (where the child lives)
- Legal custody (decision-making authority)
- Parenting time schedule
- Holidays, vacations, and special events
- Guidelines for communication and co-parenting
Mediation allows parents to customize parenting plans around their children’s needs, rather than relying on court-imposed solutions.
3. Child Support
Using California’s child support guidelines as a baseline, you can:
- Agree on monthly support amounts
- Factor in shared expenses (childcare, school, healthcare)
- Build flexibility into the arrangement where appropriate
Mediation ensures both parents are involved in creating a plan that meets the child’s needs and feels fair.
4. Spousal Support (Alimony)
You’ll discuss whether support is appropriate and, if so:
- How much will be paid
- For how long
- Under what conditions it may change or end
Rather than having a judge impose a decision, you and your spouse can work toward an agreement that reflects your financial realities.
5. Other Issues Unique to Your Family
Sometimes, couples have additional concerns like:
- Division of a family business
- Pets and companion animals
- Education or religious upbringing decisions
- Health insurance or tax-related issues
Mediation is flexible and it allows space to work through whatever matters most to you.
How Your Mediator Helps
At Off the Record, Dorit L. Goikhman guides couples through each issue with patience and clarity. She ensures that no detail is missed, helps prioritize conversations, and keeps the focus on resolution, not blame.
While she doesn’t offer legal advice, Dorit creates a neutral environment where each party can voice concerns and explore solutions openly.
Focus on the Present and Plan for the Future
Mediation is not about rehashing the past, it’s about finding practical ways to move forward. Identifying the issues early gives you both a map to follow and increases the likelihood of a fair, efficient outcome.
Need Help Clarifying What to Discuss?
Whether your situation is straightforward or complex, we’re here to guide you. Call Off the Record Mediation Services LLC at 866-223-4153 or schedule your free 30-minute consultation online. Let’s identify your priorities and start working toward resolution together.