#sorelatable Pocast Ep. #14: The Power of Connection: Emotional and Spiritual Resilience in Times of Change with Amanda Gordon

In a world that has been forever changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the field of divorce mediation has not been immune to its impacts. In a recent conversation with Amanda Gordon, a seasoned attorney and mediator based in the East Bay, we explored how the pandemic has reshaped the landscape of divorce and family law—and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents for both professionals and clients alike.

The New Reality: More Demand, Fewer Professionals

As Amanda discussed, the pandemic has led to a significant increase in the demand for divorce-related services, while simultaneously decreasing the number of professionals entering the field. The result? A growing gap in services, particularly for those seeking mediation or less adversarial approaches to divorce. Amanda emphasized the financial strain on clients in high-cost areas like the Bay Area, where the few available professionals often require prohibitively high retainers.

Burnout and Boundaries: A Shift in Professional Norms

One of the most striking changes Amanda noted was how professionals in the field have redefined their boundaries post-pandemic. The shift to remote work initially eliminated the natural pauses in the workday, leading to widespread burnout. However, as Amanda observed, this has since prompted many practitioners to take real vacations, set clearer boundaries, and prioritize their well-being—ultimately benefiting both them and their clients.

Client-Practitioner Dynamics: The Importance of Fit and Communication

Amanda delved into the complexities of the client-practitioner relationship, particularly the importance of finding the right fit. In her practice, Amanda has implemented a more rigorous screening process to ensure she can meet her clients' needs without overextending herself. She also highlighted the challenges clients face in articulating their needs during emotionally charged times, such as divorce, and the importance of setting realistic expectations from the outset.

The Role of Emotion in Mediation

While emotions are an inherent part of mediation, Amanda stressed the need to balance emotional considerations with practical, legal realities. Her approach involves acknowledging and validating clients' emotions while focusing on the technical aspects of how they will move forward with their lives post-divorce—whether it’s deciding where the children will live or how assets will be divided.

Amanda Gordon’s Approach: A Blend of Law and Humanism

Throughout the discussion, Amanda provided insights into her practice, which is centered on mediation, mediation support, and premarital agreements. Her goal is to help clients reach agreements without the need for court intervention, offering them both legal guidance and a compassionate space to have difficult conversations.

Creative Solutions and Prenuptial Agreements

Amanda’s expertise also extends to prenuptial agreements, where she helps couples articulate their financial values and plan for various scenarios before marriage. She shared examples of how these agreements can prevent future disputes and ensure both parties understand the financial implications of their marriage—often leading to more informed and stable relationships.

Evolved Thinking in Co-Parenting and Living Arrangements

Amanda highlighted a growing trend among separated couples: finding creative ways to co-parent and maintain stability for their children without immediately moving into separate homes. Whether it’s “nesting” or other shared living arrangements, Amanda sees this as a sign of evolved thinking, where the well-being of children takes precedence over traditional notions of post-divorce living.

Conclusion: A Humanistic Approach to Mediation

As our conversation concluded, it was clear that Amanda Gordon’s approach to divorce mediation is as much about human connection as it is about legal expertise. By blending empathy with practical solutions, Amanda is helping clients navigate one of the most challenging times in their lives with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

For those facing the prospect of divorce or seeking to protect their future through a prenuptial agreement, Amanda’s insights offer a valuable guide to making informed, thoughtful decisions.

Amanda L. Gordon, Attorney and Certified Family Law Specialist

http://www.gordonfamilylaw.com/ 

Amanda L. Gordon, a Bay Area native, brings a wealth of expertise to her work in divorce and family law. Growing up in Palo Alto and a graduate of Castilleja High School, Amanda went on to earn her B.A. in History from Wesleyan University. Following a career in advertising, she pursued law at Santa Clara University School of Law, graduating magna cum laude (top 5% of her class).

Amanda specializes in divorce and family law, including property division, spousal and child support, parentage, custody matters, and marital agreements. In 2020, she became a Certified Specialist in Family Law with the State Bar of California. Committed to ensuring her clients are fully informed, Amanda emphasizes that clear understanding of options and rights is essential for clients making important life decisions. With significant courtroom experience, Amanda recognizes when litigation may be necessary to safeguard a client’s financial future or a child’s well-being. However, she is also a trained Divorce Mediator with over 40 hours of mediation training and is a member of Collaborative Practice East Bay and Collaborative Practice Golden Gate.

In addition to her legal work, Amanda is deeply invested in community impact, volunteering with the Alameda County Bar Association and the Justice Diversity Center. When she’s not working, you can find her hiking with her Labradoodle, Griffin, and spending time with her daughter, Z.