Divorce & Family Mediation

Divorce and family decisions made in a quiet room, not a courtroom

Family disputes are painful enough without years of hearings. Mediation lets both people sit down with a neutral former judge and decide together — about the children, the home, and the future — instead of handing those choices to a stranger in a robe.

Matters we mediate

Why people choose mediation here

Easier on children

Parents who work it out together tend to keep communicating afterward, which children feel for years.

Stays private

Your finances and family life are discussed in a closed room, not entered on a public docket.

You keep control

Nothing is decided for you. Nothing is final until both of you agree to it.

Sessions are led by Michelle C. Ross, an attorney admitted in California and Texas and a former Administrative Law Judge. Mediation is not legal advice for either side, and you are welcome to have your own attorney review any agreement before you sign it.

How Mediation Works

Five straightforward steps from conflict to closure.

No court filings, no endless discovery, no drawn-out procedures. Here's exactly what happens when you mediate with Bench Mediators.

  1. Free intro call

    30 minutes, free

    Tell us what's going on in plain language. We'll explain whether mediation fits your situation, how it could work, and how fast it could move. No obligation, no legal jargon.

  2. Both sides agree to mediate

    Usually within a week

    We reach out to the other party and invite them to the table. Mediation is voluntary — but most people say yes once they understand it keeps everyone in control and out of court. Everyone signs a simple agreement to mediate.

  3. Prep session

    About an hour per side

    You meet with the mediator privately to share your side, your documents, and what a good outcome looks like for you. You'll know exactly what to expect before the main session.

  4. Mediation session

    Varies by matter

    Everyone meets by phone, video, or in person — together and in private breakout conversations — with the mediator guiding the negotiation. Many disputes settle in a single session. You stay in control; nothing is decided for you.

  5. Written agreement

    Same day or within days

    When you reach a deal, it's put in writing as a binding settlement agreement. You leave with closure, certainty, and a result you chose — not one imposed on you.

Book a Free Consultation

Tell us what's going on. We'll tell you honestly if mediation fits.

Fill out the form and we'll get back to you within one business day — or reach out directly, whichever you prefer.

Confidential. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client or mediator-client relationship.