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Mediation Guiding You Through Difficult Times

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
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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:
  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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
  • “A+ lawyer!”

    It's been a constant struggle with my son's father, before acquiring Ms. Donna Santo as my attorney, I had no chance to show the courts the stress my ex was causing for me and my son. Ms. Santo and her team have helped me exercise my rights as a mother and legally they have put me in a position to ultimately give my son the best life possible. Her staff was extremely professional and helpful. I was very satisfied with the services I received and I would highly recommend her. She is a good listener and she gave me great advice. Ms. Santo went above and beyond to make sure I fully understood the process and responded quickly to emails and voicemails. She is the greatest lawyer ever.

    - Jess
  • “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.
  • “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.
  • “I would recommend him to anyone who needs a good attorney.”

    I am lucky to have had Michael Mehas handle my family law child custody and visitation matter, personal injury, and business and employment matters, and he's the only attorney I've ever used. He's very compassionate in what he does and combines many years of experience with a great understanding of the law. I would recommend him to anyone who needs a good attorney.

    - Molly C.
  • “Donna is the consummate professional and I would recommend her to anyone with divorce or family law issues.”
    “I came to Donna due to her strong reputation and extensive understanding in the area of family law. Based upon her very knowledgeable advice, I was able to settle my case without the time and expense of having to go to court.”
    - Dave D.
  • “I highly recommend them.”
    I knew from the moment I walked into Santos Mehas that I was in good hands. My case was a little unique as we had to get a lot of things done very quickly and that is exactly what Michael and Donna did. PS: Don't let Donnas small stature fool you. She is a force to be reckoned with in the court room. I highly recommend them.
    - Wayne W.
  • “Donna Santo is a no nonsense, highly professional family attorne”

    Donna Santo is a no nonsense, highly professional family attorney. She has many years of experience which I found to be critical when it came to working in the family court system. She has had experience with all the judges and therefore quickly formulates a plan that is realistic, and has the best chance of success. You could not make a better choice to help you through this incredibly difficult situation.

    - Scott
  • “Working with Donna Santos and Michael Mehas was such a blessing.”
    “Working with Donna Santos and Michael Mehas was such a blessing.”
    - Melissa A.