Mediation vs. Litigation

Mediation vs. Litigation: A Better Alternative to Traditional Divorce Lawyers

At Mulford Mediation, we're firm believers in putting the power back into the hands of the people who matter most, you. With over three decades of experience in the field, we've witnessed the transformative impact of mediation in crafting personalized solutions for every unique circumstance. Dive into our video to discover why mediation could be the ideal route for you. It's essential to remember that, in mediation, you hold the reins.

Explore further as Philip breaks down the distinctions between mediation and litigation in our concise video below.

Divorce Lawyer vs. Divorce Mediator: Understanding Your Options

When facing divorce, most people immediately search for a "divorce lawyer" without realizing there's a better path forward. While hiring a divorce lawyer and pursuing litigation is the traditional route, divorce mediation offers a collaborative alternative that saves time, money, and emotional stress while putting you in control of your future.

What Sets Divorce Mediation Apart?

Unlike working with opposing divorce lawyers in an adversarial court setting, divorce mediation uses a neutral mediator to help couples reach mutually acceptable agreements on property division, child custody, and financial matters. As a divorce mediator, Philip Mulford doesn't represent either party, he facilitates productive conversations that help you find common ground and create solutions tailored to your unique family needs.

Key Differences: Mediation vs. Divorce Lawyers

Control & Decision-Making: When you hire divorce lawyers and go to court, a judge who doesn't know your family makes final decisions. With mediation, you and your spouse retain control and create personalized solutions together.

Cost: Separate divorce lawyers billing hourly can cost $20,000-$50,000+ per spouse for litigation. Divorce mediation typically costs $4,500-$9,500 total for both parties—a fraction of traditional divorce lawyer fees.

Timeline: Divorce lawyers must work within crowded court schedules, often taking a year or more. Mediation moves at your pace and is typically completed in weeks or months.

Privacy: Court proceedings with divorce lawyers are public record. Other than the final mediated agreement that is filed with the court, mediation is completely confidential.

Relationships: Litigation with divorce lawyers creates conflict and animosity. Mediation reduces conflict and helps preserve relationships, especially important for co-parenting.

Flexibility: Divorce lawyers and judges are bound by standardized guidelines. Mediators help craft creative, customized solutions that courts cannot offer.

When Divorce Mediation Works Best

Divorce mediation is ideal for couples who want to maintain a civil relationship, prefer privacy over public court proceedings, wish to control outcomes rather than leaving decisions to a judge, want to minimize costs compared to hiring separate divorce lawyers, and are willing to work collaboratively toward fair agreements.

When You Might Need a Divorce Lawyer

Some situations may require traditional divorce lawyers, including cases involving domestic violence, severe power imbalances, hidden assets, or when one spouse refuses to negotiate in good faith. Even in mediation, parties can consult with their own divorce lawyers for independent legal advice while working through the mediator to reach agreements. Before a mediated agreement is signed, the mediator will encourage both parties to have the draft reviewed by their respective attorneys.

Why Choose Mulford Mediation Over Traditional Divorce Lawyers?

With over 35 years of experience, we provide cost-effective solutions, faster resolution, reduced conflict, and personalized agreements—all while you remain in control. Unlike the adversarial process of hiring divorce lawyers for litigation, mediation allows you to navigate divorce with dignity and respect while preserving your financial resources and emotional well-being.

Take the First Step

If you're searching for a "divorce lawyer" because you're unsure of your options, consider whether divorce mediation might be a better path forward. Contact Mulford Mediation today to learn how our mediated approach can help you reach fair agreements while saving thousands compared to traditional divorce lawyer litigation.

Schedule a consultation to discuss your situation and discover why divorce mediation may be the ideal solution for your family's future.