Law Office of Jeralyn C. Ehlers

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Strategic Legal Solutions To Protect Families And Secure Legacies

Santa Barbara Mediation Attorney: Your Ally For Amicable Solutions

When families face the stress of divorce or legal separation, emotions can cloud decisions. Jeralyn C. Ehlers, CFLS understands how difficult these transitions can be. Jeralyn is a certified family law specialist with over 20 years of experience. She founded the Law Office of Jeralyn C. Ehlers, CFLS  to help people like you find clarity and fair outcomes.

Jeralyn is a mediation lawyer who values trust, dedication and compassion. She believes most families benefit from resolving disputes through understanding, not conflict. With her guidance, you can pursue a collaborative divorce or resolve disagreements without unnecessary court battles. She also consults with unrepresented parties, offering support and insight during mediation.

The Role Of Mediation In California Family Law

Mediation in California family law offers an alternative to litigation. Family law mediation is a process where both parties work together to find solutions outside the courtroom. Divorce mediation is a specific form of this process. It helps couples address every issue that arises in a divorce or legal separation. During mediation, a neutral third party called a mediator guides discussions between you and the other party.

Jeralyn can act as your mediation lawyer or as a consulting attorney if you are participating in mediation on your own. She helps you prepare for sessions, understand your rights and review proposed agreements. The goal is to reach a fair settlement on issues like spousal support, child custody and property division. In mediation, you often have more control over the outcome while reducing stress and cost.

Which Family Law Disputes Are Suited For Mediation?

Many family law issues can be resolved through mediation. This process helps you and the other party discuss concerns openly and reach agreements regarding:

  • Divorce: Mediation helps couples settle the terms of their divorce without a drawn-out court battle.
  • Legal separation: Parties can resolve issues related to separation, such as finances and living arrangements.
  • Spousal support: Mediation offers a space to discuss whether support is appropriate and in what amount.
  • Child custody: Parents can create parenting plans that reflect their children’s best interests.
  • Parenting time: Mediation allows families to set clear schedules for time with each parent.
  • Asset division: Couples can decide how to divide property, assets and debts in a way that feels fair.

With Jeralyn’s guidance, you gain the tools to discuss difficult topics and reach lasting agreements.

Why Choose Mediation?

Mediation offers many advantages for families in transition. For instance, it allows you to maintain more control over the divorce process and its outcome. Other benefits include:

  • Privacy: Mediation sessions are confidential, unlike public court hearings.
  • Cost savings: Mediation is often less expensive than going to trial.
  • Efficiency: The process can be completed more quickly than traditional litigation.
  • Reduced conflict: Mediation encourages cooperation and respectful communication
  • Custom solutions: Agreements can be tailored to fit your family’s unique needs.

Choosing mediation can make the divorce process less painful. It allows you and your family to focus on the future, not on past conflicts. It helps you to achieve a peaceful resolution whenever possible.

What Happens If We Cannot Agree During Mediation?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you and the other party may not reach agreement on every issue. If mediation does not resolve all disputes, those unresolved matters will move to litigation. The court will then make decisions at trial. Jeralyn is a strong litigator as well as a skilled mediator. She is prepared to represent your interests in court if needed. However, she always works to resolve as many issues as possible through mediation first.

Discuss Supportive Mediation Services With A Divorce Lawyer

Jeralyn C. Ehlers provides clear guidance and compassionate support during divorce mediation, legal separation and all family law matters. She also offers consulting to those who are unrepresented and need support in mediation. To schedule a consultation, please call 805-918-1340 or send her an email.