--- title: "Divorce Mediation in Contra Costa County | Affordable & Effective" description: "Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in Contra Costa County offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. Schedule Free Video Consult" url: https://ffmediation.com/contra-costa-county-mediation/ date: 2024-04-02 modified: 2026-01-20 author: "Dina Haddad" type: page lang: en --- # Divorce Mediation in Contra Costa County | Affordable & Effective # Divorce Mediation in Contra Costa County | Affordable & Effective Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in Contra Costa County, CA offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. [ Schedule A Free 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 + ## No Court, No Lawyer – Intelligent Divorce Mediation Option for Contra Costa Couples Hiring a Contra Costa divorce lawyer and family lawyers leads to extra costs, issues, and often simple divorce looks complex. Contra Costa Family Court also has very specific local rules for filing that can slow down your process.  The most efficient solution to these problems is [divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/) not only for Contra Costa but entire California. It’s a way to settle matters privately without court involvement.  Although the County offers a court-sponsored mediation program, the public court mediation is very limited and not very personalized too. On the other hand, [private mediation](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/private-vs-court-ordered-divorce-mediation-california/)  is far better, flexible and can be tailored to the specific needs of the individuals. It helps guide couples through every step of the process.  [Talk ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/)to [Dina Haddad](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/) who’s a California reputed and professional divorce mediator at [Families First Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/). Let her see how mediation applies to your case?  [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ## Is Contra Costa Divorce Mediation Right for Me ? It is important to know when mediation is right and [when not](https://ffmediation.com/when-is-divorce-mediation-not-recommended/). For example, it’s highly not recommended if couples are facing domestic violence and major power disparities.  Such cases require  [divorce litigation](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/what-is-litigation/) or collaborative divorce since mediation depends on both individuals being truthful, adaptable, and willing to work together. It works wonderfully well for: 1. **Cooperative Couples:** It’s best for couples aiming for a better transition that want a respectful conclusion to their marriage.  2. **Cost and Time Savers: **If you want  to avoid unnecessary [divorce costs](https://ffmediation.com/how-much-does-divorce-cost-in-california/)  and timeline in Contra Costa County, mediation is best for saving [costs ](https://ffmediation.com/california-divorce-mediation-cost/)and [time](https://ffmediation.com/how-long-does-a-divorce-mediation-take-in-california/).  3. **Those Who Want Control:** Divorce mediation is ideal for couples who want to decide their matters themselves rather than a third party judge.  4. **Privacy and Peace Seekers: **Divorce mediation prioritises discretion over unveiling your case to the court, especially for [high net worth divorce](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/high-net-worth-divorce-mediation-california/) cases.  5. **Couples Who Wish Better Transition for Kids:** Divorce mediation is best for couples who want stable transition and maintain a co-parenting dynamic after separation.  6. **Couples Seeking Productivity: **Since divorce mediation focuses on completing couples divorce within a demanding work and life schedule – which makes divorce highly productive and efficient. [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ## Benefits of Divorce Mediation in California Divorce mediation helps you conserve considerable time and expenses [versus a litigation process led by attorneys](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/divorce-mediation-vs-litigation-california-guide/).  #### Promoting Peace and Healing You can approach future family occasions, such as graduations or weddings, with reduced animosity. This spirit of collaboration results in increased long-term happiness and less remorse. #### Faster, Cheaper Resolution The majority of [cases settle within 6-8 mediation sessions](https://ffmediation.com/how-long-does-a-divorce-mediation-take-in-california/), bypassing the backlog in Contra Costa courts. You also avoid legal expenses by steering clear of prolonged court proceedings. #### Fully Customized Agreements Mediation develops solutions specifically for your distinct family, avoiding standard court rulings. Each conversation takes place in a neutral, collaborative setting. #### Preservation of Future Relationships This approach helps maintain goodwill enabling family members to remain in touch unlike the win-only mindset of a traditional divorce litigation. #### Expert Tax and Financial Planning Mediation allows you to collaborate with specialists who design settlements that reduce tax liabilities. This careful planning protects your well-being and financial future. #### Higher Compliance, Less Future Conflict Agreements you build together are more likely to be followed, reducing the risk of future litigation over violated orders. 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) Meet The Team ## Meet Your Future Mediation Team At Families First Mediation, 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 Contra Costa County of California. ![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. [ View Profile ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/) ![Divorce Mediator Samira Amato Families First Mediation in San Jose, Ca](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Samira-Color-Square.jpg) ## 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/) ## Contra Costa and Dispute Resolution Program The [Contra Costa Dispute Resolution Program](https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/5189/Dispute-Resolution-Program) is a resource aimed at resolving particular conflicts without going to court. It is primarily used for claims and specialized needs, like mediation for guardianship. While these options exist, they differ from specialized private mediation services. The county also supports a general [ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Program](https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/alternative-dispute-resolution) for civil disputes.  However, choosing an experienced private mediator  offers a more customized approach. The court ordered mediation and provided services are limited in time, scope, and expertise.  ## 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. ** ** Edit Template ## Providing Family Law Services in Contra Costa County We serve divorcing couples throughout California, with a special focus on the communities within Contra Costa County, some of which are listed below. - [ ** Alamo ](https://ffmediation.com/divorce-mediation-atherton-ca/) - ** Danville - ** Walnut Creek - ** Lafayette - ** Orinda - ** San Ramon - ** Blackhaw - ** Moraga - ** Clayton ## FAQ – Contra Costa Divorce Mediation ** ** Are mediation agreements enforceable in Contra Costa courts? Yes, mediation agreements are enforceable in Contra Costa Courts. After you and your spouse both endorse the agreement, the mediator assists in drafting the required documents to be submitted to the Contra Costa Courts Family Law division. Once the judge examines and approves this paperwork, it turns into a legally enforceable court order. ** ** Can we mediate if one spouse lives outside Contra Costa County? Yes, you can still mediate even if one spouse lives outside Contra Costa County. Provided that least one party satisfies California’s residency conditions, the divorce may be initiated in Contra Costa County. Thanks to online mediation, your physical whereabouts won’t prevent you from meeting and settling your case quickly. ** ** Do mediators in Contra Costa handle child custody and property division together? Yes, private mediators manage every part of your divorce. This covers child custody, visitation schedules, property and debt division well as deciding spousal support issues in Contra Costa. ** ** What happens if my spouse refuses to mediate? You must proceed with litigation if a spouse refuses mediation. However, a conversation with the mediator can address your spouse’s concerns. Encourage them to try the process before spending time and money on legal action. ** ** Is mediation faster than going to court? In almost all cases, mediation is significantly faster. In Contra Costa County, going to court can involve long delays waiting for a judge and a backlog of cases. Mediation allows you to schedule sessions quickly and complete the entire process in months, rather than years.