Las Vegas Family Law Mediation Services

What Is Family Law Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential, structured process in which a neutral mediator helps both parties communicate, identify priorities, and work toward a resolution both sides can accept. Unlike litigation, the mediator doesn’t decide the outcome — the parties themselves shape the agreement, with the mediator facilitating productive conversation and helping bridge gaps between competing positions.

When Mediation Makes Sense

Mediation can be a strong option for resolving a wide range of family law issues, including:

• Divorce terms— property division, spousal support, and other issues that make up a full divorce settlement
• Custody and parenting time— building a workable parenting plan both parents can live with
• Child support— reaching an agreement on support terms that reflects both parents’ circumstances
• Post-divorce disputes— resolving disagreements that arise after the divorce is finalized without returning to full litigation
• Modification requests— working out changes to an existing custody or support order by agreement

Court-Ordered Mediation for Custody Disputes

Many Nevada family courts require parents in a contested custody case to attempt mediation before the matter can proceed to a contested hearing. This requirement reflects a broader preference for parents to reach their own agreements when possible, rather than having a judge impose a custody arrangement after trial.

When Mediation Isn’t Appropriate

Mediation depends on both parties being able to negotiate on relatively equal footing. In cases involving domestic violence or a significant power imbalance, mediation is generally not appropriate, and Nevada courts typically allow an exception to mandatory mediation requirements in these circumstances.

The Role of Your Attorney During Mediation

While the mediator remains neutral, each party can and often should have their own attorney throughout the process — advising on legal rights, reviewing proposed terms before they’re signed, and making sure any agreement reached is fair, complete, and enforceable. Cohen Fic & Squires supports clients through mediation with this kind of behind-the-scenes guidance.

Why Choose Cohen Fic & Squires for Mediation

• Experienced guidance through both mediator-led and attorney-supported mediation
• Clear-eyed advice on what terms are fair and enforceable before you sign
• Efficient, cost-conscious approach to resolving disputes outside of court
• Careful screening for cases where mediation isn’t the right fit
• Support for clients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and Clark County

Frequently Asked Questions

What is family law mediation?

Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party helps both sides work toward a mutually acceptable resolution on issues like custody, support, and property division, rather than having a judge decide the outcome after a contested hearing.

Is mediation required in Nevada custody cases?

Many Nevada family courts require parents in a contested custody case to attempt mediation before the matter can proceed to a contested hearing, unless the case involves circumstances such as domestic violence that make mediation inappropriate.

Can I still have a lawyer if I go through mediation?

Yes. While the mediator remains neutral and does not represent either party, each spouse or parent can have their own attorney to provide legal advice, review proposed terms, and protect their interests throughout the process.

Is mediation a good option if there’s been domestic violence?

Generally, mediation is not appropriate in cases involving domestic violence, as the power imbalance can prevent a fair negotiation. Nevada courts typically allow an exception to mandatory mediation in these circumstances.

What happens if we can’t reach an agreement in mediation?

If mediation doesn’t result in a full agreement, unresolved issues proceed to litigation, where a judge will decide them. Any partial agreements reached during mediation can often still be incorporated into the final resolution.

Is mediation cheaper and faster than going to court?

In many cases, yes. Mediation typically resolves disputes faster and at a lower cost than a fully litigated case, since it avoids extended discovery, multiple hearings, and trial preparation.

Is what I say in mediation confidential?

Yes. Communications made during mediation are generally confidential and cannot be used as evidence later in court, which allows both parties to speak more openly while working toward a resolution.