--- title: "San Francisco Divorce Mediation Experts | 5-Star Rated Team" description: "Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in San Francisco offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. Schedule Free Video Consult" url: https://ffmediation.com/san-francisco-divorce-mediation/ date: 2024-03-18 modified: 2026-01-20 author: "Dina Haddad" image: https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/San-Francisco.webp type: page lang: en --- # San Francisco Divorce Mediation Experts | 5-Star Rated Team # Simplify Your San Francisco Divorce with Divorce Mediation Divorce is stressful enough. Work with top divorce mediators Dina & Samira to take control of your case in San Francisco offering the most comprehensive divorce mediation services. [ Schedule A Free Consult ](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) ## 22+ Years of Family Law Experience 5 Star Reviews from Clients 0 + Less Costly Than Litigation 0 % Successful Mediations Completed 0 + ## Simplifying San Francisco Divorces with Mediation The city of San Francisco is a place of innovation and beauty; however, San Francisco divorce courts are often challenging to navigate when dealing with [high-value assets](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/high-net-worth-divorce-mediation-california/) such as equity compensation, privately-held or family businesses, or real estate.  Divorce Mediation in San Francisco and Bay Areas can provide a better way to reach a global divorce settlement [without going through the court.](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/what-is-litigation/) It allows you to reach a high-quality agreement in your case and avoid a public,  lengthy and [expensive litigation process](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/divorce-mediation-vs-litigation-california-guide/).  If you want help for your San Francisco and Bay Area uncontested divorce, we would be more than happy to assist you. Our mediators like [Dina ](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/dina-haddad-esq/)and [Samira](https://ffmediation.com/about-us/samira-amato-esq/) have simplified thousands of divorces with intelligent mediation in San Francisco and California. Book your [Free divorce mediation consultation](https://ffmediation.com/schedule-a-free-consult/) today. - ** Obtaining a high-quality agreement. - ** Customized free consults and sessions. - ** Submitting MSA and Divorce Judgment for filing. - ** Settling your family law matters in 6 – 8 sessions. - ** Financial Analysis with an Expert Financial Mediator. - ** Tax implication guidance and stock option calculations. - ** Working with You and Your spouse to disclose financials. - ** Preparing and finalizing Your Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA). - ** Preparing and finalizing Your Divorce Judgment (aka divorce decree). - ** Preparing and filing the necessary documents in San Francisco court. ## How Can You Qualify for Divorce Mediation and Uncontested Divorce in San Francisco? ![Advantages of Divorce Mediation Services in San Francisco](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Advantages-of-Divorce-Mediation-in-San-Francisco-.webp) For most couples who want an uncontested divorce in San Francisco,[ divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/online-divorce-mediation/) is a viable option. Uncontested divorce is when the parties resolve their divorce by settlement and avoid a trial.  However, the parties may have had attorneys or went to court for temporary hearings. With [divorce mediation](https://ffmediation.com/divorce-mediation-california-complete-guide/), parties will also have an uncontested divorce, but typically are only using mediation to resolve disputes and are not requesting relief from a court or judge through court hearings or trial.  In order for divorce mediation to work for you and your spouse, you both need to be willing to commit to the [mediation process](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/how-does-this-process-start/). Mediation provides a platform to resolve complicated disputes and to move through the divorce process privately, but it requires the parties cooperation.  Long story short, divorce mediation is an uncontested divorce by nature of its process. Unlike an uncontested divorce, divorce mediation could even mean that the parties never had any court hearings. It usually also means that the parties reached a more creative and full agreement and did not just settle. [Schedule a free consultation](https://ffmediation.com/california-divorce-consultation-checklist/) today! ## Smart Divorce Mediation Process for San Francisco and Bay Area Couples Our divorce mediation process addresses the varying needs of Bay Area San Francisco’s couples, from [high net worth couples](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/high-net-worth-divorce-mediation-california/) to those seeking privacy and creative solutions.  Different divorcing options have different[ divorce costs](https://ffmediation.com/how-much-does-divorce-cost-in-california/). For example, [litigation ](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/divorce-mediation-vs-litigation-california-guide/)and [collaborative divorces](https://ffmediation.com/collaborative-divorce-vs-divorce-mediation-ca/) are expensive – each costing around $30,000+, while in mediation you can [expect to pay $10,000](https://ffmediation.com/california-divorce-mediation-cost/) and you and your spouse can split up the total cost.  Hence divorce mediation is a more cost-effective and more expeditious way. You control the results, final outcome, and avoid the financial and personal distress caused by litigation. At [Families First Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/), we will lead you through every step: ** ** 1. Our Free Consult Allows Us to Assess Your Goals: We assess your individual circumstances to confirm our experience is aligned with your requirements regarding [child custody](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-custody-visitation-mediation-lawyer-ca/), [spousal support](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/spousal-support-mediation-lawyer-in-san-jose-ca/) and assets. ** ** 2. Gathering Financial Information: We assist you in collecting and disclosing all of your financial information so there is complete transparency when negotiating agreements for child support, custody and asset division ** ** 3. Negotiation Session: You and your former spouse are able to determine and agree upon the terms for child support, custody and asset division as part of a structured and respectful environment. ** ** 4. Drafting the Agreement: We prepare your comprehensive marital settlement agreement (MSA), which is a legally enforceable document that can be filed with the court. ** ** 5. Divorce Finalization: We thoroughly prepare and review your court documents so we can minimize delays and make the process of finalizing your divorce smooth. ## How We Can Help You with Family Law Matters? We have helped those throughout California reach an uncontested out-of-court divorce. Our mediation process is designed to help you reduce stress and reach a better settlement agreement more quickly.  We handle all following family law matters: - [ Child Custody ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-custody-visitation-mediation-lawyer-ca/) - [ Child Support ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-california/) - [ Spousal Support ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-california/) - [ Legal Separation ](https://ffmediation.com/mediation/what-is-the-difference-between-legal-separation-and-divorce/) - [ Divorce Mediation ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/california-divorce-mediation-services/) - [ Prenuptial Agreement ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/prenuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-san-jose-ca/) - [ Postnuptial Agreement ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/san-jose-postnuptial-agreement-mediation-lawyer-ca/) - [ Child Support Modification ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/child-support-modification-san-jose-ca/) - [ High Net Worth Divorce Mediation ](https://ffmediation.com/practice-areas/high-net-worth-divorce-mediation-california/) - [ Family Law Settlement Conference ](https://ffmediation.com/san-jose-family-law-settlement-conference-ca/) ## 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) Meet The Team ## Meet Our San Francisco Divorce 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 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 San Francisco, California. ## Dina Haddad, Esq. Principal & Founder Attorney-Mediator ![Expert Californian Mediator Dina Haddad - Super lawyer](https://ffmediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dina-Haddad.webp) [ 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/) Meet The Team ## Meet Trusted Divorce Mediation Experts ![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/) ## 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 ** ** Q1. Is divorce mediation legally binding in San Francisco? Yes, the divorce agreement reached in mediation is legally binding. After you have reached a settlement in mediation, the [mediator ](https://ffmediation.com/divorce-mediator/)often prepares a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) for the parties to execute. The mediator will assist with filing the MSA with the court, making it the court’s orders in that party’s matter.  ** ** Q2.What happens if we fail to reach an agreement in mediation? If you are unable to reach an agreement in divorce mediation, you have other options to consider. You and your spouse might agree to have your consulting attorneys work with the mediator to assist you in settling.  You may also try other settlement options like private judging. You might also resolve what you can in a Stipulation & Order. If you are still unable to settle or settle all issues, you have the option to resolve any remaining issues in court. ** ** Q3.Who pays the cost of mediation? The cost of divorce mediation in Atherton varies from case to case. The average cost, however, is around $5,000 to $15,000 depending upon the case complexity and individual issues. Yet it’s significantly cheaper than the litigation cost of $30,000 per spouse. ** ** Q4. How much does divorce cost in San Francisco? An average contested San Francisco divorce can exceed $30,000 per party. A San Francisco divorce mediation will cost a fraction of the comparison litigated cost.  Mediation continues to be the most economical option for divorcing parties. ** ** Q5. How long does the mediation process take in San Francisco? The majority of [mediation cases are concluded within 4 to 8 sessions](https://ffmediation.com/how-long-does-a-divorce-mediation-take-in-california/). Mediation is far quicker than litigation, where it may be months or even years before you see resolution with the San Francisco family court system. ** ** Q6. Do I still need a lawyer if I’m using a mediator? You don’t have to hire a lawyer if you are using a mediator, but some parties choose to have a consulting attorney review their mediated agreements prior to signing them. A mediator is an impartial facilitator of a settlement process, not a legal advisor to either of the parties. ** ** Q7. Do both spouses have to live in San Francisco to mediate here? Both spouses do not need to live in San Francisco to mediate in San Francisco. Family law is state-wide. You will want to work with a mediator that is able to assist you with California rules and laws.  To file in California, only one party needs to be residing in California for at least 6 months and in their county for 3 months, such as San Francisco County. The divorce action itself must be filed in a county where at least one of the spouses resides.   ** ** Q8. Can mediation help with child custody and support issues? Yes, mediation can help with child custody and support issues. Mediation includes creating a comprehensive, individualized parenting plan and a child support arrangement that is in the best interest of your children