Is Divorce Mediation Right for You?
Divorce doesn't have to be a contentious fight. You and your former spouse can disagree about the distribution of assets, debts, or child custody. Still, you can agree to end your marriage amicably. When this is the case, divorce mediation is a less time-consuming and less costly option for you to...
Prenuptial Agreements: What They Can and Cannot Protect
Many couples enter into a prenuptial agreement before beginning their lives together. Because of its transactional nature, some couples may be weary of using a prenuptial agreement.
But prenuptial agreements can provide a firm basis for marriage. They allow spouses to discuss financial concerns before...
The Confident Retirement Podcast
Ep 078: Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Listen to this informative The Confident Retirement episode with Dori Goikhman about divorce insights.
Here is what to expect on this week’s show:
The Importance of finding your focus. What’s...Dorit Goikhman and OTR Mediation Host Reddit AMA
Here at Off the Record Mediation, we hope to do our part in de-mystifying and popularizing the mediation process as an alternative to litigated divorce. We are true believers in mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR), particularly when it comes to family matters.
Even though divorce mediation is...
What is the #1 Biggest Mistake I see in Mediation?
Why Trying to "Win" Mediation Will Get You Nowhere.
As a California mediator, the most common mistake that I see parties make in mediation is trying to "win" mediation. By...
How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation
Preparation is key to a successful outcome in mediation. When I'm advising clients in mediation, I ask them to consider all of the following questions:
1. What does an ideal outcome look like? (if there are multiple issues, consider each issue specifically and separately) 2. What is...
Featured on Brides.com: 9 Steps to Take When Preparing for Divorce
By Cathy Meyer
Getting a divorce is no small feat. In addition to the emotional process of separating from your spouse, legally ending a marriage comes with mounds of paperwork, division of assets, settling of debts, and navigating a new future. This process can take months however, knowing how to...
How the Pandemic Has Changed Divorce
COVID-19 has altered the landscape in terms of court and mediation appearances. "Many jurisdictions are now operating remotely and are offering virtual hearings. Among mediators, virtual sessions have become the norm," says attorney Dorit Goikhman, founder of Off the Record...
What are the traits of great mediators?
The mediator you choose will drastically affect your mediation experience. In addition to training, great reviews, and expertise, here are a few traits to look for in a mediator.
Compassionate Listeners. Great mediators are skilled in making all sides feel heard. Mediators understand that there...Featured on Fatherly.com: Is Trial Separation Just a Divorce Dress Rehearsal?
By Adam Bulger
How do You Set up a Trial Separation?Trial separations don’t require lawyers. Attorney and founder of California-based mediation firm Off the Record Mediation Services Dorit Goikhman notes that many family court litigants are self-represented. “Courts and legal service agencies often have free or...