Zonder Family Law

04/24/2025

Online divorce platforms make it look easy—just fill in a few forms and move on. But after three decades in California family law and divorce mediation, I’ve seen how the “quick fix” can lead to long-term financial, legal, and emotional fallout.

In our latest blog post, I break down the biggest risks of handling your divorce without professional guidance, including:

• Why California’s divorce laws are more complicated than they seem
• How one mistake on your paperwork can impact your future
• What most people overlook when it comes to asset division and taxes
• How vague custody terms can create conflict down the road
• The emotional toll of navigating divorce without a support system

If you're considering a DIY divorce, take a few minutes to read this first.

It might just save you from costly mistakes—and help you feel more prepared for what’s ahead.

👉 Read the blog now: Why You Should Avoid a DIY Divorce: https://www.zonderfamilylaw.com/why-you-should-avoid-a-diy-divorce-insights-from-a-california-family-lawyer-and-mediator/

Bonus Insight: If you’re unsure what your best path forward is, we also offer private Strategic Mediation Consultations tailored to your situation - contact our office at (805) 777-7740 or at www.zonderfamilylaw.com.

Why You Should Avoid a DIY Divorce: Insights from a California Family Lawyer and Mediator

04/02/2025

Mediation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Lisa Zonder breaks down the red flags that might make it the wrong path for some divorcing couples in California. 👀⚖️

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:

• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.

• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.

• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.

• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.

• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

03/28/2025

Mediators don’t spell out the terms for you. They expect you to come prepared with proposals and a solid understanding of your rights. Even if you’re trying to avoid legal fees, at minimum consult an attorney before signing anything.

📌 Better yet, get legal advice before you make an offer - let's talk about it in this week's video!

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

03/18/2025

Continuing the conversation about mediation!

What questions do you have about mediation or mediation consulting?

You can learn more about what we do here:
https://www.zonderfamilylaw.com/mediation-services/

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

03/11/2025

Divorce doesn’t have to mean a courtroom battle. ⚖️
Mediation offers flexibility, privacy, and a path to resolution on your terms. 🕊️

In this video, I break down the benefits of mediation and how the process works. Watch now to learn more!

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

03/04/2025

Today we'll discuss how clients in mediation can make sure that their agreement is legally sound.

What questions do you have about mediation? Drop them in the comments! ⬇️

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

03/01/2025

Are you prepared for your upcoming California divorce mediation session? Deciding to divorce is difficult. Protecting your rights during settlement negotiations shouldn’t be. Don't get bulldozed!

💡 A Smarter Way Forward: Our $5,000 Divorce Mediation Consulting & Coaching Bundle helps you save on legal fees, reduce stress, and maintain privacy.

✔ 10 Hours of Expert Legal Consulting – Navigate mediation with confidence alongside experienced family law attorney Lisa Zonder and her team. Up to 10 hours.
✔ 1 Hour of Divorce Coaching – Coaching to prepare you for mediation sessions so you don't get bulldozed. Find clarity, purpose, and peace of mind with our certified divorce coach. Up to 1 hour.

⚖️ Efficient. Personalized. Cost-Effective. Get started with a consultation today! Call 805-777-7740 or sign up at https://www.zonderfamilylaw.com/product/mediation-consulting-coaching/ to get started!

*Package is only valid for up to 6 months.
*When purchasing this package, it’s best that Purchaser reach out to the law firm to ensure that their objectives are achievable within the time constraints of this package.
*Subject to conflict check. If we discover a conflict, we will refund your fee.
*We reserve the right to refuse service in ZFLG’s discretion. This likely will be a result of ZFLG assessing that the client’s project is not a good fit for this type of bundled service.
*Further terms and conditions are outlined in the retainer agreement, which must be signed before services commence.
*Limited to California.
*Mediations vary by complexity of case. Please be aware that you may need more than 10 hours of legal consulting for your mediation. This package may be purchased a second time, but thereafter, hours can be purchased at ZFLG's then prevailing hourly rate for mediation services.

Please be advised that LiteSpeed Technologies Inc. is not a web hosting company and, as such, has no control over content found on this site.

02/27/2025

Join us March 18th for our next free webinar!

Winning Without War: Settling Your California complex or High-Conflict Divorce Out of Court

We will live on Facebook and LinkedIn!

02/25/2025

Mediators help facilitate discussions, but when it comes to financial assets, they don’t interpret your statements or advise on tax implications. That’s where financial professionals come in! 💰 Lisa Zonder explains how to navigate finances in mediation.

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

02/18/2025

A mediator helps guide productive conversations, facilitates settlement agreements, and keeps the process neutral—but they don’t provide legal advice. Understanding the difference can help you navigate divorce with confidence. ⚖️ Learn more from Lisa Zonder at ZonderFamilyLaw.com

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

02/11/2025

Mediation is a great tool for divorce, but did you know the mediator isn’t there to give legal advice? Attorney & divorce coach Lisa Zonder explains why having your own attorney during mediation can help you avoid costly mistakes. ⚖️

Legal and Professional Disclaimer:
• This video should not take the place of specific legal, or other professional, advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
• Please seek specific legal, or other professional advice, before taking action, or refraining from taken action, in your case. The faculty, and guest lecturers, disclaim all liability for the actions you take, or fail to take, based on any content presented during this presentation.
• The contents of this presentation contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments, and/or address your specific case. No attorney-client, or other professional-client relationship, is created by this presentation.
• Any information you provide to us today is not secure and will not be treated as confidential.
• The process we will discuss today applies to California. If you do not reside in California, please consult with a local attorney for specific information

07/03/2024

⚖️ Skip the Courtroom Drama and Get Your Divorce DONE! ⚖️

LA Superior Court recently announced reduction of staff.
Expect delays! 🚧

Want to get your divorce done without court?

Skip court delays, staffing shortages, and traffic by utilizing our online private divorce mediation.

At Zonder Family Law Dispute Resolution Services we understand the emotional toll and financial strain that public divorce court litigation can bring. Our mission is to offer an alternative, one that prioritizes your peace, privacy, and financial well-being.

Want to ensure a smoother resolution to your divorce, protect your moderately complex financial estate, and create more amicable resolutions for all parties involved?

Reach out to get started or find out more at:
https://www.zonderfamilylaw.com/dispute-resolution-services/

Zonder Family Law Group uses a team approach to help clients through divorce. The team is Settlement