What is mediation?

Simply put, mediation is the Voluntary and Confidential process of resolving issues between disputing parties, assisted by a neutral party. The mediator facilitates the process, but does not impose a settlement. The individuals themselves will need to determine and agree on what the final settlement will be. 

Family mediation recognises that you are the experts about your own family – it leaves the decision-making to you and your partner, giving you much more say in your future than having the decision made for you by a judge.

Mediation may not be appropriate for everyone. It is important for individuals to be able to have respectful and mature conversation with each other. Our initial and separate consultation with each individual will help us to determine whether mediation will be appropriate for you. 

Each  individual will need to make separate intake appointments, so we can understand your individual concerns, discuss topics that need to be discussed in confidence and determine whether mediation is appropriate. 

Mediation is voluntary. You are not forced to use a mediator or to agree to a settlement you are not comfortable with. You are not coerced, neither does the mediator make decision for you, rather, the mediator facilitates you making your own decision.

Mediation can help you move away from a framework of fault and blame. It can help you share your perceptions, and experiences, and discover the specific needs of each person. 

Independent legal advice will help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and assure that any agreement is in your best interest. Each person is strongly encouraged to get independent legal advice, before, during mediation and after an agreement on concerns has been reached. 

The Open Mediation Summary Report outlines the proposed agreements made in mediation and a summary of the unresolved issues. The Closed Mediation Summary Report only outlines the proposed agreements made by the parties.

Please Note: I only offer Closed Mediation.

Mediation is much less expensive, less time consuming, and less hostile than family court/litigation. The cost will depend on the complexity of your situation, and duration of the mediation.