LA JOLLA, CA – September 17, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
This report, distributed by Peacemaker Divorce Mediation Group – California Resolution Experts, reviews current national marriage and divorce trends while explaining how California’s legal system addresses divorce mediation as an alternative method for resolving family law disputes.
According to research from the National Center for Family and Marriage Research (NCFMR) at Bowling Green State University, the national ratio of marriages to divorces reached approximately 2.42 marriages for every divorce in 2024. The research, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, identified 2,390,482 marriages and 986,810 divorces nationwide during that year. The marriage-to-divorce ratio represented the highest level recorded by the NCFMR since the American Community Survey began collecting related marriage and divorce experience data in 2008.
The NCFMR’s analysis shows that the national marriage-divorce ratio remained relatively consistent from 2015 through 2021, generally ranging between 2.10 and 2.16, before increasing in more recent years. Researchers have also noted that the commonly repeated statement that approximately half of all marriages end in divorce does not accurately represent current national divorce data, as divorce rates vary depending on age, marriage patterns, and other demographic factors.
In California, mediation plays an important role in resolving family law disputes, particularly those involving children. California law encourages parents to resolve custody-related disagreements through mediation before asking a court to decide contested issues. Under California Family Code Section 3170, courts generally require parties involved in child custody or visitation disputes to participate in mediation before a contested hearing. This process allows parents to discuss parenting arrangements with the assistance of a neutral professional and attempt to reach agreements outside of a courtroom setting.
California also provides confidentiality protections for mediation discussions. Under California Evidence Code Section 1119, communications made during mediation are generally protected from disclosure and are typically not admissible in court proceedings. These protections are designed to allow spouses to have open discussions and explore potential solutions without concern that mediation conversations will later be used against them if an agreement is not reached.
Divorce mediation in California may address many of the same issues that courts consider during a divorce proceeding. These matters can include the division of community property and debts, child custody and parenting schedules, child support, and spousal support. When spouses reach an agreement through mediation, the terms are usually prepared in written settlement documents and submitted to the court for review as part of the final divorce judgment.
Although mediation can help spouses resolve disputes, it does not eliminate the formal legal requirements for obtaining a divorce in California. A spouse must still complete the dissolution process, including filing the required court documents, meeting residency requirements, and observing California’s mandatory six-month waiting period before a divorce can become final.
A California mediator serves as a neutral facilitator and cannot represent either spouse or provide legal advice to one party, even if the mediator is also a licensed attorney. Individuals who want personal legal guidance or an independent review of settlement terms may choose to consult with their own family law attorney during the mediation process.
In complex financial matters, spouses may also work with additional professionals, such as Certified Divorce Financial Analysts (CDFAs), who can help evaluate the long-term financial impact of proposed agreements. These professionals may assist with understanding issues involving retirement accounts, real estate, taxes, and other financial considerations. Their involvement is not required but may be useful in cases involving significant assets or complicated financial decisions.
The information included in this report regarding national marriage and divorce trends is based on research from the National Center for Family and Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University and U.S. Census Bureau data. Information regarding California mediation procedures reflects applicable provisions of the California Family Code and Evidence Code. This information is provided for general educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for individual legal advice.
Peacemaker Divorce Mediation Group – California Resolution Experts provides divorce mediation services throughout California, assisting spouses with matters involving divorce agreements, child custody arrangements, spousal support, and complex property division.
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For more information about Peacemaker Divorce Mediation Group – California Resolution Experts, contact the company here:
Peacemaker Divorce Mediation Group – California Resolution Experts
Scott Levin
+18669898159
scottlevinmediation@gmail.com
7817 Herschel Avenue Ste 201 La Jolla CA 92037
