--- title: "Divorce Mediation Alameda | Affordable & Confidential Services" description: "Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in Alameda, CA, offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. Schedule Free Video Consult" url: https://ffmediation.com/alameda-divorce-mediation-services/ date: 2024-03-25 modified: 2026-07-02 author: "Dina Haddad" type: page lang: en --- # Divorce Mediation Alameda | Affordable & Confidential Services # Divorce Mediation Alameda | Affordable & Confidential Services Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in Alameda, CA offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. [ Schedule Free Video Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) 5 Star Reviews from Clients 0 + Years of Family Law Experience 0 + Less Costly Than Litigation 0 % Successful Mediations Completed 0 + ## Empowering Hayward Couples Take Control of Their Divorce in Alameda County, CA ![Divorce mediation alameda](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/alameda-ca.webp) Are you seeking an amicable, [uncontested divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/cheap-uncontested-divorce-in-california/) in Alameda County? Mediation is the best solution for couples handling divorce, legal separation, or post-divorce modification.  Mediation will guide you through the entire Alameda county divorce process and allows you to fully discuss all matters from finances to children in a [private mediation](https://ffmediation.com/san-jose-family-law-settlement-conference-ca/) setting. Take full control of your divorce and get the chance to be on the driver’s seat. [Our expert mediators](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/) at [Families First Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/) empower parties and help them simplify cases and save costs. Book your [free consultation](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) with [Dina Haddad](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/) – California expert divorce attorney mediator.  [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ## How Divorce Mediation Works in Alameda County? [Divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/divorce-mediator/) is a procedure in which an impartial expert assists you and your partner in arriving at a complete agreement without the need for a judge ruling.  You can still initiate mediation even after submitting your divorce documents to the Alameda family court.  In [mediation](https://ffmediation.com/), you have the ability to settle all matters a judge would address without the expensive delays. You bypass paying hourly fees for a prolonged case and develop a personalized agreement quickly. To start the [mediation process](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/how-does-this-process-start/): ### Agree to Mediation: You both must first willingly choose mediation – offering flexibility and effectiveness compared to the courts restricted mediation services. ### Hire a Mediator: Find an expert mediator who has thorough training in family law and essential attributes such as impartiality, strong communication, and empathy. ### Joint Mediation Sessions: Within 6-8 sessions, your mediator will clarify the procedure, pinpoint concerns, and assist you in discussing effective resolutions. ### Drafting the MSA: The mediator prepares your Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA). Both of you carefully examine it prior to signing. ### Filing with the Court: Agree on terms of divorce and turn your case into uncontested divorce. Later, you can submit Alameda County divorce forms to the court. ### Divorce is Final: Your divorce will be finalized after the court completes their work and a mandatory waiting period of 6 months and one day from when the petition for divorce was served. ## What Topics Can I Discuss in Mediation? Everyone’s divorce is different and the topics that are more important for one couple will be less important for another. Mediation allows you to focus on the things that matter most.  [You can prepare](https://ffmediation.com/divorce-mediation-preparation-guide-ca/) effectively for your session no matter whether you live in Los Angeles, San Mateo, or Alameda using[ divorce mediation checklist](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Divorce-Mediation-Checklist-FFM.pdf) and [divorce consult checklist](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Divorce-Mediation-Checklist-FFM.pdf). You can discuss the following topics:  ** ** 1. Financial Concerns (Asset Division): We help you [divide all assets and debts](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/high-net-worth-divorce-mediation-california/) (houses, savings accounts, etc.) with value ensuring a fair financial division. ** ** 2. Spousal Support: You have the option to draft spousal support agreements tailored to your circumstances and needs. ** ** 3. Child Related Issues: Develop a parenting plan that outlines custody, visitation, and child support provisions considering what is most beneficial for your children. ** ** 4. Life and Health Insurance: Address maintaining necessary coverage for each spouse as part of your final settlement. ** ** 5. Future Planning: Discuss and plan for future events, college expenses, or changes in income to prevent conflicts in the future. Awards and Memberships ![SuperLawyers Badge 2024](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Super-Lawyers-badge-2024.webp) ![SuperLawyers Badge 2025](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/1-4.webp) ![SuperLawyer 2026 California - Dina Haddad](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Super-Lawyers-2026-1.webp) ![FindLaw Badge](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/5.webp) ![Yelp Rating](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2-3.webp) ![Marquis Who's Who Badge](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3-2.webp) ![LawInfo Badge](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Law-Info-Badge.webp) ![Avvo Rating](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6.webp) ## Our Approaches and Services for Alameda Divorcing Couples [Online divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/online-divorce-mediation/) is completely accessible and efficient for every resident of Alameda County. Our expert staff, skilled in divorce mediation and family law, can assist you with proficiency.  We use many approaches of mediation and sometimes we also combine the approaches to resolve deadlocks and promote agreements. But it may depend upon the nature of cases too. We customize our method to fit your needs: - ** Facilitative Mediation: ** The mediator prioritizes organizing conversations and creating possible solutions. This approach suits couples needing assistance with communication. - ** Evaluative Mediation: **The mediator concentrates on legal factualness and possible court outcomes. This approach is ideal for cases requiring a clear understanding of legal principles. - ** Transformative Mediation: ** The mediator focuses on improving comprehension and empowerment between parties. This approach is ideal for restoring communication for co-parenting. Meet The Team ## Meet Your Future Mediation Team At [Families First Mediation](https://ffmediation.com), we are a dedicated team of four professionals with over 60 years of combined family law experience. Our collaborative group includes skilled attorney mediators, a case manager, and a divorce paralegal. We also work directly with financial experts and forensic accountants. We’re committed to providing compassionate and effective divorce mediation services in Alameda, California. ![Expert Californian Mediator Dina Haddad - Super lawyer](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dina-Haddad.webp) ## Contact: ## [ +1 408-357-3486 ](tel:+14083573486) ## Email: ## [ info@ffmediation.com](mailto:info@ffmediation.com%20) [ Youtube ** ](https://www.youtube.com/@divorcewithdina) [ Linkedin ** ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinahaddad/) [ Facebook ** ](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFJSOFlrWXJvUHdINjFyemlJNnYtLXJqejBWUXxBQ3Jtc0trM1J0Q2l1aER1U21nVFdBVmF0SUNGM0NCZkFGZ0FudXdDbWduUE5TaEZpTzdDVHlLTDQ5cHVPYUpOWHRrMXNOc1NFZ2NfOGg4X2lVV3Z3ZkhjbThnWUFEUF9KaWxMSHZXVU9tUWRwVFVhdjlZRFBvWQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fthecompletedivorce) [ Instagram ** ](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWh6TDZYb0l1Qy1tbTUtREVfMG1ONkZPVFppUXxBQ3Jtc0ttc2dGZWNQWWRvQ1dHOUM3YkthaVJZZ0xWSDJtemZNUFJCeFNUMlZKbm5fa3hpOHVBYWZmaWg1c2IxN0Y3eVZQU2c2VWR5TEhfRGUtLTd4VnB6LU1CWWxNSG9xaEFYTWNkTF9MY3doSlB2ZXlBVl9sOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fcompletedivorce%2F) [ View Profile ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/) ### Dina Haddad, Esq. Principal & Founder Attorney-Mediator Dina Haddad is the founder and principal of Families First Mediation, one of California’s top-rated mediation services. As an attorney-mediator based in California,  Dina has helped countless couples resolve issues related to divorce, legal separation, child custody, spousal support, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements—amicably and effectively. She earned her post-doctorate law degree in mediation from the renowned Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution. Dina has practiced family law at some of the most respected firms in both Southern and Northern California. She brings a strong legal background together with a thoughtful, educational approach to mediation—ensuring both parties feel informed, heard, and empowered to reach lasting agreements. She has served as Judge Pro Tempore for Personal Property Arbitration in Santa Clara County and is a family law mediator with the Agency for Dispute Resolution (ADR), a premier provider of private dispute resolution services. [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ![Divorce Mediator Samira Amato Families First Mediation in San Jose, Ca](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Samira-FFM.webp) ### Samira Amato, Esq. Of Counsel Divorce Mediator [ View Profile ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/samira-amato-esq/) ![Senior Paralegal](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/deborah_portrait_400px.jpg) ### Deborah Yamashiro Divorce Paralegal [ View Profile ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/deborah-yamashiro/) ![Case](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Katherine-e1750656922207.webp) ### Katherine Pearson Divorce Paralegal & Case Manager [ View Profile ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/katherine-pearson/) ## We Believe Divorce Needs Not to be So Overwhelming. Take Control of Your Divorce. Divorce mediation offered here is voluntary and confidential, empowering you to take charge. [Our all-inclusive family mediation services](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/#:~:text=Expand%20More%20For%20Divorce%20Mediation%20Features) cover divorce mediation, [legal separation](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/legal-separation-california/), child custody, child support (including modifications), and spousal support. We conduct family law settlement conferences and specialize in high-net-worth divorce mediation and marital agreements to protect your future. ## Families First Mediation Process ## 1. ### Start A Divorce We will prepare and file the Petition and Response for the divorce or legal separation for you. These papers start your divorce case. ## 2. ### Mediate An Agreement You will meet with the attorney-mediator and your spouse in working sessions. On average, parties need 6 sessions. The attorney-mediator will help you understand the law and provide you options for property division, parenting and child and spousal support. Using that information, the attorney-mediator will guide you to an agreement. We are looking for results that you understand and work for you, each other, and your family - both today and for your future. ## 3. ### Complete Disclosures For every divorce and legal separation, you must exchange and complete financial disclosures. We will guide you through them so they are exchanged and done correctly ## 4. ### Divorce Judgment We will put your agreements together in a final agreement, known as an MSA. We submit this to court to become your divorce judgment. ## Looking For An Experienced Divorce Mediator? - ** Answer all your questions - ** Coordinate with & keep your spouse on track - ** Guaranteed court acceptance [ Schedule A Free Consultation ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) [ Call Us Today ](tel:%204083573486%20) ![Expert Californian Mediator Dina Haddad - Super lawyer](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dina-Haddad.webp) ### Dina Haddad, Esq. Principal & Founder Attorney-Mediator Dina Haddad is the founder and principal of Families First Mediation, one of California’s top-rated mediation services. [ Youtube ** ](https://www.youtube.com/@divorcewithdina) [ Linkedin ** ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinahaddad/) [ Facebook ** ](https://www.facebook.com/Families-First-Mediation-100162333372826/) [ Tiktok ** ](https://www.tiktok.com/@divorcewithdina) ## See What Our Client Say About Us Explore client stories and reflections on how we’ve made divorce in California simple and stress-free through our mediation process. [ ![Marievelle Domingo](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/1-5.webp) Marievelle Domingo*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT2xCNmMwWjBjbTlmU0U5SGVEZElPVTl1WlVFNGFHYxAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "I heard so many great feedbacks about Families First Mediation so I was eager to sign up to overcome my fears about going through my divorce...." [ ![Eric Chuang](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2-5.webp) Eric Chuang*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT2xKM2EyNUJhMU5rVTJSd1JsVTFiRFZLYTFsNVZGRRAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Dina and her team are amazing. They guided us through this most difficult time in our lives with ease and proficiency...." [ ![Julie Poklewski](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/7-1.webp) Julie Poklewski*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUR3akpUQlZ3EAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Working with Families First Mediation Group was such a positive and reassuring experience. From the very first conversation...." [ ![Jacob P](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/3-4.webp) Jacob P*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT2xKM2EyNUJhMU5rVTJSd1JsVTFiRFZLYTFsNVZGRRAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Samira and FFM guided us through our divorce while navigating a fairly complex (non-standard) living and parenting plan...." [ ![Sapna Bhagwat](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/4-2.webp) Sapna Bhagwat*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT205Q1FscEVZM1EzUWsxRE4ybHNSMGxOYTAxdFRYYxAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Families First Mediation recently helped my ex and I navigate the dissolution of our marriage....." [ ![H B](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/5-1.webp) H B*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT205Q1FscEVZM1EzUWsxRE4ybHNSMGxOYTAxdFRYYxAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Dina is not only incredibly knowledgeable—she is so much more than just a mediator. She is a rare and special person who brings light to your path...." [ ![Lynn](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-9.webp) Lynn*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNJaS1HSDd3RRAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Dina Haddad and Families First made a difficult process so much easier for us. For families with complex situations, Dina is the perfect choice..." [ ![Steven](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-10.webp) Steven*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBX0ktLVBnEAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Very good experience. Dina knows how to get everyone on the same page while keeping both parties on friendly terms..........." [ ![John Milstead](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-19.webp) John Milstead*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3MWFEZWJnEAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "We like the way Dina Haddad and Families First Mediation made the well-being of our kids their top priority. They guided us through......." [ ![Veronica Presedo](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-12.webp) Veronica Presedo*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURRa09pZUdREAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "As much as you can love going through mediation and divorce, Dina H. is the one to help you come to a positive outcome. She has good......" [ ![Araceli Taylor](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-13.webp) Araceli Taylor*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVbFkyMk93EAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "I highly recommend Dina and Deborah at Families First Mediation. Dina is awesome she helped guide us from beginning to the end through...." [ ![Dolores Duran-Cefalu](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-14.webp) Dolores Duran-Cefalu*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2bjgybEtnEAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Families First really helped make a difficult process seamless and helped us keep our friendship intact. Thanks to Dina and Deborah, we were able ...." [ ![Matthew Pawluk](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/user-icon.png) Matthew Pawluk*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2bDlTQnRnRRAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Dina and Deborah helped us maintain our MSA, even years later, with the same kindness and professionalism as the first time we all..." [ ![Sharon Meheula](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-15.webp) Sharon Meheula*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNneHBfY3BRRRAB!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "I highly recommend Families First Mediation if you and your spouse are thinking about going separate ways. Dina and team are friendly, easy to work with, thorough, and responsive....." [ ![Carla Engelbrecht](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-16.webp) Carla Engelbrecht*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURnaHBmd1R3EAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "While this process can be full of emotion and never easy, Dina showed excellent professionalism and compassion during ....." [ ![Jonathan Frecceri](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-11.webp) Jonathan Frecceri*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURJelkzdGNnEAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "For anyone out there navigating the legal complexities and emotional fallout of a divorce with children involved, I’d recommend Dina...." [ ![Annie Nam](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed-13.webp) Annie Nam*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/@37.2928564,-121.9128649,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURnanJ5clpBEAE!2m1!1s0x0:0xf50b66c6e2e39875?hl=en-US&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "The transition out of marriage has been difficult and emotional. Dina has shown excellent professionalism throughout the process......" [ ![Matthew Howard](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Matthew-Howard.webp) Matthew Howard*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/109933240572308543811/reviews/@33.3803104,-138.7641953,4z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m3!8m2!3m1!1e1?hl=en&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDgxOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) "Dina and the team at Families First Mediation were not only highly professional, but they were also very personal and extremely helpful throughout the entire process..." [ ![Kendall Hofstetter](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Kendall-Hofstetter.webp) Kendall Hofstetter*☆**☆**☆**☆**☆*Verified ** ](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Families+First+Mediation,+P.C./@37.2928606,-121.9154398,17z/data=!4m18!1m9!3m8!1s0x808fcadf46e6b3eb:0xf50b66c6e2e39875!2sFamilies+First+Mediation,+P.C.!8m2!3d37.2928564!4d-121.9128649!9m1!1b1!16s%2Fg%2F1hc2wshn0!3m7!1s0x808fcadf46e6b3eb:0xf50b66c6e2e39875!8m2!3d37.2928564!4d-121.9128649!9m1!1b1!16s%2Fg%2F1hc2wshn0?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDgyNy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) I am truly grateful for the support we received from Dina and her team. They were responsive and patient throughout the mediation/divorce process, as we navigated uncharted, uncomfortable territory. ** ** ## FAQ— Divorce Mediation Servies Atherton, CA ** ** Q1. What happens if the husband refuses mediation? If a partner refuses, we can begin with a session to outline the benefits. Should they still object, other options, such as divorce or legal proceedings, would be necessary to proceed. ** ** Q2. What issues can be settled through mediation in Alameda? You can settle most issues through mediation, including asset division, debt obligations, spousal support, child custody, visitation schedules, and child support. This leads to a marital settlement agreement (MSA). ** ** Q3. Are mediators in Alameda County licensed attorneys? Some mediators in Alameda County are licensed attorneys, although it is not mandatory. A competent mediator needs to possess education in dispute resolution. Numerous mediators, including [our group](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/), have experience in family law to skillfully guide your conversations. ** ** Q4. Do I have to file for divorce before starting mediation in Alameda County? **No. **You can initiate mediation at any time you prefer. Prior to filing, after filing, or even while considering a legal separation. Beginning with mediation simplifies the court procedures.   ** ** Q5. What is the downside to divorce mediation? The [biggest downside of divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/when-is-divorce-mediation-not-recommended/) is that it requires mutual participation and good faith. If there is a severe power imbalance, domestic violence, or complete unwillingness to compromise, the process may not be suitable and the courts would be the only appropriate option.