Ventura & Oxnard Divorce Mediators
Offering Alternative Resolutions to Divorce in California
Our mediation program is led by Donna Carol Santo, a Certified Specialist, Family Law California Board of legal Specialization and Certified Mediator through the Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law, who will focus on your specific needs and will work with you to develop a plan that is tailored to you and your family.
We approach the mediation process with the firm belief that you are more suited to make decisions for your family than the court. We believe that empowering you to work through conflict, evaluate your interests and generate options will help you arrive at a resolution that meets your needs and can create a platform for improved communication in the future.
Call today to get started on your case with a free consultation!
Is Mediation the Right Path for Me?
Known as a form of alternative dispute resolution, divorce mediation involves assistance from a neutral, third party, also known as a mediator. Divorce mediation offers benefits going to court does not, including the ability to resolve your marital issue(s) without interference from the court.
In the event of a contested divorce, you have two options:
1. Go to court to have a judge settle disputed matters with your spouse
- If the court resolves your issues, there is a chance you may not like the court's decision.
2. Retain a divorce mediator to resolve differences with your spouse outside of court
- Divorce mediation, on the other hand, allows you and your spouse to resolve your matters together.
The Benefits of Having a Divorce Mediator
The mediator is responsible for helping you and your spouse reach an amicable agreement about issues such as:
- Spousal support
- Child custody
- Asset and property division
How to Prepare for Mediation
Preparing for mediation is essential for its success. When parties come together for their first mediation session, it is not uncommon for them to feel overwhelmed with information. By preparing ahead of time, they eliminate some of that strain.
Here are a few ways that you can prepare for mediation:
- Compile a list of questions, comments, or concerns for both the mediator and the opposing party
- Create a proposed parenting plan if it applies to your case
- If applicable, speak with your lawyer before and after the session to get more clarification
- Research the laws and statutes that apply to your specific issues or questions
Navigating Divorce Options?
Not sure whether litigated divorce or mediation is right for you? Rest assured that our seasoned attorneys and mediators will help you make the right choice for yourself and your family.
Contact us online today or call us at (805) 222-7818 to book an initial consultation.
An Emphasis on Strong Family Values
Our firm places a strong emphasis on the importance of family values. The balance between maintaining these family values and generating a better future for you and your family is one we strive to achieve with each case. Our values consist of:
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Holistic Approach
We aim to resolve conflict so you and your family can move on peacefully. We approach all aspects of a case, including the emotional, financial, and mental components, and advocate with you throughout.
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Collaboration
Collaborative divorce can be a great option for spouses looking to share joint custody of their child/children and the court looks favorably on this decision. When possible, we strive to come to a resolution that will benefit both spouses.
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Children Come First
We respect the fact that our clients trust us with important life-decisions. We strive to be as understanding and empathetic as we can with you and treat you like we would treat a close family member.
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Compassionate Legal Services
We respect the fact that our clients trust us with important life-decisions. We strive to be as understanding and empathetic as we can with you and treat you like we would treat a close family member.
Our Satisfied Clients
Real Stories from Real People
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“I’d choose her services again without hesitation”
“I’d choose her services again without hesitation”- Parker C. -
“Santo Mehas is the law firm you want on your side.”
If you have to go through divorce and child custody, Santo Mehas is the law firm you want on your side. Both lawyers are very professional and knowledgeable yet caring and want the best for their clients. They work hard for their clients at every level and go above and beyond to make their clients relaxed and comfortable with the family law processes.- Jasmin R. -
“There is no other choice than Michael and Donna!”
“There is no other choice than Michael and Donna!”- Gina G. -
“The divorce was finalized with agreeable terms. I am so glad to get this difficult time settled and behind us.”
- Rhonda A.My son was filing for divorce and he had child custody problems. The divorce was contentious and we hired Donna Santo because she is well known for handling these types of difficult situations. She was very easy to work with and was able to do most of the family law work via phone or e-mail. The divorce was finalized with agreeable terms. I am so glad to get this difficult time settled and behind us, and we have a great relationship with our grandchild.
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“I highly recommend them!”
“The attorneys and staff were professional and helped guide me through a difficult process. The fees were very reasonable and the entire process took much less time than I anticipated. I highly recommend them!”- Michael S. -
“Thank you, Michael, you're a true professional and a very good attorney.”
- Judy M.We had a real legal emergency at our business and Michael Mehas was there to immediately respond to the other side, allowing us to resolve our matter favorably. Thank you, Michael, you're a true professional and a very good attorney, and I would recommend you for any business or other legal matter.
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“Exceptional Lawyer”
Attorney Michael Mehas was one of the most straight forward people I have ever met. He handled my cases immediately. He accomplished something for me and my family that three Los Angeles County divorce lawyers failed to do: He got child support from my ex husband within short periods of time. He guided me through the process with honest advice, and his legal fees were very reasonable, he's professional, and I have referred him to family members. Since then, Mr. Mehas has also handled several civil matters for me and is the only attorney I turn to when I need legal help. I’d hire him again, such a positive experience in the middle of a bad situation. Thank you, Michael Mehas, for all you've done for me and my family.- Jess -
“I highly recommend Donna Santo and the Santo Mehas law firm.”
“I highly recommend Donna Santo and the Santo Mehas law firm.”- John J.