Comprehensive divorce resolution, no unnecessary conflict.
Nicole Herzberg Mediation
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm just starting my divorce process, what's the first step?
Many people assume their first step should be hiring a family law attorney. In some situations, that is absolutely the right choice. But for many couples, especially those hoping to remain respectful and cooperative, it may not be the best place to start. The traditional divorce process is built around each spouse having their own advocate. While that approach is necessary in some cases, it can sometimes turn a manageable problem into an adversarial negotiation, increasing conflict, costs, and stress along the way. Our approach starts from a different premise: before becoming opponents, determine whether you can solve the problem together. Through Guided Divorce Resolution, we help couples understand their options, identify the issues that need to be resolved, and work toward fair agreements in a structured, solution-focused environment. For many couples, the process is simpler, faster, and less expensive than they expected.
Not every divorce is appropriate for this approach. But if you and your spouse are willing to participate in good faith, guided resolution can often be a more constructive first step than immediately entering the litigation process.
How much do your services cost?
We pride ourselves on our transparent all-in pricing model. Unlike many mediators who charge an hourly rate, our packages have a flat rate that will cover guiding you through the entire divorce process. Our Basic Package costs $3,500, and our Comprehensive Package costs $5,000. Both include all necessary information gathering and in-person mediation sessions to talk through and resolve all key issues. The Basic Package includes drafting of a summary settlement agreement, and the Comprehensive Package includes drafting a complete Marital Settlement Agreement and processing of all court paperwork to get your divorce finalized.
Typically, couples hire a mediator to help settle their disputes once they are already in the litigation process, as an alternative to going to trial. While this certainly saves a lot of time, money, and headache over going to trial, often by this point, much of the damage is already done. We believe that for many couples, a guided cooperative resolution process can be a much more productive starting point, and litigation should be a last resort.
How does this differ from traditional mediation?
Won't I get more in my divorce if I choose to litigate?
Sometimes, yes. There are situations involving hidden assets, fraud, abuse, significant power imbalances, complex financial structures, or other unusual circumstances where litigation may be necessary to protect a party's rights and achieve a fair outcome.
However, for many couples with relatively straightforward finances and family circumstances, California law provides a fairly predictable framework for how assets, debts, support, and parenting issues are handled. In those cases, the major disputes are often not about the core outcome, but about the details around the edges.
The question is not simply whether litigation might produce a slightly better result. It's whether the additional financial and emotional cost of getting there is worth it.
Many couples spend tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees fighting over issues that ultimately have a relatively small impact on the final outcome. Others find that the conflict itself creates lasting stress and makes it more difficult to move forward after the divorce is complete.
That doesn't mean litigation is never the right choice. It simply means that for many families, it makes sense to begin with a cooperative, problem-solving approach and turn to litigation only if it becomes necessary. Our philosophy is simple: start with the least adversarial path that has a realistic chance of working.
No. In fact, one of the core tenants of our guided resolution process is to start as a problem-solving team, without separate representation. Our belief is that this allows everyone to enter the process with a productive and forward-looking mindset, without harding your positions or escalating the conflict. Only if an agreement truly can not be reached, or new more complex issues arise, will one or both parties be encouraged to seek individual representation.
Do we each need our own attorney?
What if we already disagree on some issues?
That is why we are here. We will help you identify the core issues that need resolution and work through them with a focus on fairness and efficiency, finding creative solutions to meet each parties needs.
This process is ideal for California couples who want to maintain a cooperative relationship and resolve their divorce as painlessly as possible. It is best suited for those with a shared desire for a respectful transition, who prioritizing problem-solving over escalation, and who above all, want to focus on moving forward productively and respectfully.