Mediation Mistakes

Calendar marking date of separation in California divorce with attorney highlighting key dates

Date of Separation Disputes: Why a Single Date Can Cost Six Figures

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A single date on a divorce timeline carries more financial weight than almost any other fact in California family law: the date of separation. Earnings, bonuses, stock vesting, retirement contributions, debts—everything before that date is community property and split equally; everything after is generally separate property of the earning spouse. When the date is undisputed, […]

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Pet custody California divorce dog with both owners during family law mediation

Pet Custody in California Divorce: Family Code §2605 Explained

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Until 2019, California family courts treated pets the way they treated coffee tables: as community property to be divided based on who paid for them and who held title. Anyone who has ever shared their life with a dog or cat knew that approach was inadequate, and the legislature eventually agreed. Family Code §2605, effective

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Professional mediation session focused on avoiding common mediation mistakes that cost clients thousands

Avoid Common Mediation Mistakes That Cost Clients Thousands

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Imagine standing on the brink of a favorable settlement, only to watch it slip away due to an overlooked detail or poorly managed interaction. For countless clients, seemingly minor missteps during the mediation process have led to the loss of thousands of dollars—mistakes that could have been avoided with proactive planning and clear communication. This

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