My mediation practice in a nutshell:
(Including domestic partnership termination, legal separation, prenuptial agreements.)
We will work together to create a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both parties. For divorce, the MOU contains the divorce settlement information required by the Superior Court. You can then give the MOU to an attorney, document preparer, or other desired party to proceed with your divorce.
Here are some of the topics we will address in the MOU:
Maintenance
Real and physical community property
When possible, all affected family members should participate in the mediation process. We will work together to create a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU will define the family issues and will contain details on how each issue was resolved. All affected family members sign the MOU.
The MOU does not replace or nullify family documents such as Wills or Trusts. Rather, MOUs are frequently used to guide the creation or modification of these types of documents. MOUs are also frequently used to resolve issues regarding family communication and family roles.
Here are examples of common family mediation issues:
Mediation is a voluntary settlement process which provides a win-win alternative to the adversarial legal system. It is collaborative, issue-oriented, and practical.
An impartial mediator helps the parties clarify their disputes, determine their needs and interests, consider settlement options, and reach fair agreements. Signed memorandums of understanding are created as needed.
Mediation is effective even when conflict and anger are intense and communication has broken down.
Mediation gives participants more control over the process and the outcomes:
"I am so thankful to Dr. Doerr. Divorce is a not just a legal process it is extremely emotional and painful separation. I looked around and found no other mediation firm that had an individual like Dr. Doerr. One who not only understands all legal requirements but also possess a PHD in Psychology which allowed him to understand and work with the strong emotions we brought to the the process. He has made an extremely difficult time in my life much better. I am so grateful for his compassion and diligence to the issues that affected my wife and I's final agreement. Thank you again Dr. Doerr." Craig B., Livermore, CA.
"Dr. Doerr was a pleasure to work with! He was direct in his communication. I worked with him on a personal mediation case. He recommended an appropriate lawyer. Overall, he was accommodating to various needs of all the parties involved. He was able to resolve most of the issues in just one session." Tushar D., Mountain View, CA.
"As stressful as this entire ordeal has been, Dr. Doerr had the ability to effectively navigate us through the disputes we were having with integrity and fairness. He is a seasoned mediator with a wealth of knowledge and is highly recommended. Kimberly T. Fremont
"I needed a mediator and found him. He is amazing. He met with me and the other party and after several meetings, all was complete. He made me feel safe in dealing with the other person, who I felt threatened by, created emotional and physical safety for me. Once referred to the attorney who prepared the documents and filed with the Courts the whole process took about 9 months. Mediation began late September and I received a Court judgment mid May of the next year. My heart is at peace. My mind is clear and I need not look back... only to refer others to him! A kind and thoughtful and professional person." Colette K., San Leandro, CA
“Dr. Doerr successfully reduced the overwhelm in our divorce process. Very professional. Five stars!” Bruce R., El Cerrito, CA.
“It was a very humane and creative process. We overcame potential road blocks smoothly.” Ms. Gail W., Oakland, CA.
“We resolved ten issues in two sessions. The child custody and child support were skillfully mediated.” Thomas T. and Myrna T., Alameda, CA.
“My former partner and I saved a lot of heartache and money. Dr. Doerr’s psychology background really helped. Highly recommended.” Dr. Robert L., Oakland, CA.
“Our memorandum of understanding, as complex as it was, has survived over the years. If you are willing to sit down and talk, his skills and style will get you through the process.” Saul B., Livermore, CA.
“Surprisingly, both of us are attorneys. This alternative method was almost laser-like, resolving some major issues in two sessions.” Michael C., Albany, CA.
“He skillfully crafted a same-gender (gay) divorce memorandum of understanding. The child custody issue though tough was finally resolved. Fine job!” Tina J., Berkeley, CA.