--- title: "Sacramento Divorce Mediation – Affordable Services" description: "Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in Sacramento, CA, offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. Schedule Free Video Consult" url: https://ffmediation.com/sacramento-divorce-mediation-attorney/ date: 2024-05-02 modified: 2026-03-29 author: "Dina Haddad" image: https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sacramento-Court.webp type: page lang: en --- # Sacramento Divorce Mediation – Affordable Services # Simplify Your Sacramento Divorce with Divorce Mediation Use Divorce mediation in Sacramento, CA to reach the best possible agreement in your divorce without a costly court battle and high attorney fees. Our experienced attorney mediators have empowered hundreds of couples to take control of their divorce, saving an average of $10,000 per couple. Book a free consultation with us to know how mediation can help in your case. 5 Star Reviews from Clients 0 + Years of Family Law Experience 0 + Less Costly Than Litigation 0 % Successful Mediations Completed 0 + ## Helping Sacramento Families with Uncontested Amicable Divorce and Mediation Going through a divorce in Sacramento County can be troublesome. Sacramento is a larger county with limited county resources. Processing and filing a divorce can take longer given the lengthy court times. Choosing the[ best divorce method](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/#:~:text=Divorce%20Mediation%20In%20California%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Healthier%20And%20Smarter%20Solution%20To%20Your%20Divorce) can make all the difference. Divorce mediation is the ideal choice because it is the quickest, [most cost-effective method](https://ffmediation.com/california-divorce-mediation-cost/) that maintains your confidentiality while working towards a peaceful agreement. The Sacramento Family Courts not only recognize a mediation divorce agreement, but highly encourage parties to mediate their divorce. At [Families First Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/), we provide you with personalized, legally binding, and fully customized mediation agreements that really work for you. Even if there are some disagreements in your case, you have the ability to turn a [contested divorce into an amicable one](https://ffmediation.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-ca/). Book a [free consultation](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) with [Dina Haddad](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/) to explore your options in Sacramento. [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ![Sacramento Divorce Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sacramento-Court.webp) ## Different Divorce Options in Sacramento and Their Timelines Understanding your divorce options in Sacramento is the first step. You’ll choose between a [contested or uncontested divorce](https://ffmediation.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-ca/) based on your ability to agree with your spouse on critical matters. - Divorce Litigation If you’re deciding between [mediation and litigation](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/divorce-mediation-vs-litigation-california-guide/), know that [litigation ](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/what-is-litigation/)is ideal for couples with complex disputes over finances or children or abusive situations. It’s expensive in terms of costs and timelines. Court backlogs make simple courses complex, which can be painful for busy professionals and those who want to take control of their divorce. - Divorce Mediation Divorce mediation is an ideal option for matters when both partners seek a peaceful settlement and there is no domestic abuse involved.  Although Sacramento provides [court-mandated mediation](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/private-vs-court-ordered-divorce-mediation-california/), private mediation allows for control and improved results. Court-mandated mediation is very limited in its application. - Collaborative Divorce If you’re between [divorce mediation and collaborative divorce](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/divorce-mediation-vs-litigation-california-guide/), note that a collaborative divorce involves a group of experts, which naturally raises expenses and lengthens the divorce schedule. Nevertheless, it is a good choice for individuals seeking to bypass court but don’t mind the steep price. - One Day Divorce Program The [one-day divorce program](https://www.saccourt.ca.gov/family/one-day-divorce.aspx) is a free Sacramento family court program for low or moderate-income couples with a full agreement. The major disadvantage is that it does not allow for any customizations or disputes. - Sacramento Family Court Services (FCS) The [Sacramento Family Court Services](https://www.saccourt.ca.gov/family/fcs.aspx) offers confidential mediation services for [child custody](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-custody-visitation-mediation-lawyer-ca/), visitation and parenting arrangements.  Nonetheless, this court-ordered mediation usually consists of a one-time session, with an evaluator, which is different from the thorough assistance provided by private mediation. - Online Divorce Services These services help with document preparation for an uncontested – [divorce without a lawyer](https://thecompletedivorce.com/). They provide forms, video tutorials, expert divorce assistance, court filing and reviewing of forms. Such a premier online divorce in California is [The Complete Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/) that handles everything from start to finish. ## Our Family Law Services in Sacramento [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/) ### [ Divorce Mediation ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/) You may have heard of divorce mediation from a friend TV... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/) ### [ Legal Separation ](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/) Are you considering a divorce or legal separation, live in CA,.. [ ](https://ffmediation.com/move-out-during-divorce-california-guide/) ### [ Moving Out Divorce ](https://ffmediation.com/move-out-during-divorce-california-guide/) Choosing whether or not to stay, or to move out during... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-custody-visitation-mediation-lawyer-ca/) ### [ Child Custody ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-custody-visitation-mediation-lawyer-ca/) In child custody mediation, attorney mediators and divorce ... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-california/) ### [ Child Support ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-california/) Child support mediation involves a third-party mediator tasked.... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/san-jose-postnuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-ca/) ### [ Postnuptial Agreement ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/san-jose-postnuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-ca/) Life after marriage is like a never-ending ride [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/spousal-support-mediation-lawyer-in-san-jose-ca/) ### [ Spousal Support Mediation ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/spousal-support-mediation-lawyer-in-san-jose-ca/) Spousal support is an important part of ending... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/prenuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-ca/) ### [ Prenuptial Agreement ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/prenuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-ca/) A prenuptial agreement helps safeguard your ... [ ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-modification-san-jose-ca/) ### [ Child Support Modification ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-modification-san-jose-ca/) Child support modification is the legal process... ## Different Divorce Options in Sacramento and Their Timelines Jake and Paula have been married for a decade, residing in Sacramento, California. After a lot of ups and downs, they have decided that it is time to go their separate ways.  They just can’t seem to make it work anymore. While breaking up, they are committed to making this process go as smoothly as possible. Instead of traditional court battles, they have chosen to go down the route of divorce mediation with Families First Mediation.  This will allow them to do what they need with minimal stress and disruption. Maintaining a cooperative approach will benefit them each directly and also their two young children. Want to seek a healthier divorce like Jake and Paula? Book a FREE divorce mediation consultation with [Dina Haddad](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/), a skilled attorney-mediator who will find the best path for you. ![Divorcing Couples of Sacramento Divorce Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Recent-Success-Stories-of-Sacramento-Divorcing-Couples-Who-Have-a-Healthy-Amicable-and-Cheaper-Divorce.webp) ## Can I Switch My Contested Divorce in Sacramento to Uncontested Mediated Divorce? Indeed, it is entirely possible to convert your contested divorce into an uncontested one through [divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/). This significant change typically [saves families around $30,000](https://ffmediation.com/california-divorce-mediation-cost/), creates an atmosphere that steers clear of courtroom conflicts and results in improved long-term adherence and results. This is the way our divorce mediation procedure operates in Sacramento: [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ## 1. ### Assess Where the Dispute Is We pinpoint the concerns, such as custody arrangements for children or property division, turning major challenges into workable topics for conversation. ## 2. ### Use Divorce Mediation We pinpoint the concerns, such as custody arrangements for children or property division, turning major challenges into workable topics for conversation. ## 3. ### Reach a Formal Agreement Your mediator prepares an enforceable Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA). Both you and your spouse go over it. Afterwards, you sign, finalizing your choices. ## 4. ### Submit Your MSA to the Court Once the agreement has been approved and signed by all parties, it is then filed with the participating court with other relevant legal documents. Awards and Memberships ![Yelp Rating](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2-3.webp) ![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) ![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) ## Mediation Puts You and Your Spouse Take Control of Divorce Divorce mediation works well because it gives you control, allowing for personalized resolutions that a judge could not provide. The crucial element is selecting an impartial facilitator. Here’s how it gives you power: ** ** You Are the One Who Decides, Not a Judge A judge enforces a decision for everyone. A mediator enables you to decide for yourself, preserving your dignity and individual needs. ** ** Respects Your Family's Values Mediation allows you to include religious or individual values in your agreement, creating an arrangement that honors your family’s heritage. ** ** Protects Your Children's Well-Being By minimizing disputes, mediation protects your children from tension. Assists you in creating a collaborative parenting plan for child custody and support arrangements. ** ** Reach a Resolution Faster The majority of mediation cases conclude within 4-8 sessions. This time-saving divorce mediation process timeline allows you to finalize your divorce faster than litigation. Simplify your divorce today. ** ** Saves You Significant Money You could save over $15,000 by steering clear of courtroom disputes and expensive attorney fees. Learn more about divorce costs in California. Meet The Team ## Meet Your Sacramentans Trusted Divorce Mediation Experts At Families First Mediation, we are a dedicated team of four professionals with over 60 years of combined experience in family law. Our collaborative group includes skilled attorney mediators, a financial mediator, a case manager, and a divorce paralegal, all committed to providing compassionate and effective divorce mediation services in Sacramento , 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:4083573486) [ 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/samira-amato-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. ![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/) ## 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. ** ** ## 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) ## FAQs ** ** Who usually pays for mediation? The expenses for mediation are usually divided equally between the two partners. This joint contribution creates a shared dedication to achieving a settlement. ** ** Is divorce mediation required before going to court in Sacramento? Mediation is often mandated by the court for disagreements regarding child custody. In contrast, for other issues, private mediation is optional but strongly encouraged to prevent court battles. ** ** Where do in-person mediations usually take place in Sacramento? In-person mediation meetings take place at our cozy Sacramento office. Additionally, we provide [online divorce mediation](https://thecompletedivorce.com/complete-online-divorce-in-california/) to ensure convenience and adaptability for you. ** ** Can mediation help reduce attorney costs in Sacramento divorces? Divorce mediation can absolutely help reduce attorney costs. By addressing problems, you reduce the necessity for costly lawyers and prolonged litigation, thereby saving you thousands of dollars. ** ** How are parenting plans handled during mediation? You and your partner develop a child custody and visitation plan. The mediator guarantees its feasibility, then turns it into an official legal contract to be implemented by a judge. ** ** What if one spouse hides financial information during mediation? A spouse cannot hide information during mediation. Complete financial disclosure is mandated by law in most jurisdictions. The procedure involves validation mechanisms to guarantee transparency and equitable asset distribution. ** ** Can we mediate temporary support or custody before filing for divorce? Certainly, mediation can set up [child support](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-california/) or [spousal support](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/spousal-support-mediation-lawyer-in-san-jose-ca/) arrangements offering immediate stability prior to the finalization of your divorce. ** ** Do courts in Sacramento review or approve mediation agreements? Yes, they do. The judge will review your signed Marital Settlement Agreement to ensure it is fair and legally sound before making it a court order.