Frequently Asked Questions
GUIDING YOU TOWARD RESOLUTION
Let’s Clear Up
The Confusion
Mediation can seem complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Here, we’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions to help you understand the process, how it works, and how it can benefit you.
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps people in conflict work through their issues to find mutually agreeable solutions. The mediator guides the conversation, facilitating open communication between the parties involved, ensuring everyone is heard, and helping them explore their concerns and interests to create lasting agreements.
The first meeting is an opportunity for us to discuss your concerns, understand the issues you’re facing, and determine if mediation is a good fit and appropriate in your situation. We will also go over the process and any necessary legal information, as well as connecting you to other resources if needed.
Mediation fees are $190 per hour, with pre-mediation individual sessions at $160 per hour.
Costs are typically shared between both parties or divided based on income. Fees are subject to GST and can be paid via e-transfer, cheque, or credit card.
Payment is required before or at the start of the session unless covered as a disbursement from a lawyer’s office.
In some cases, mediation is not the right approach for you.
My primary concern and legal obligation is to make sure that my clients are safe and feel supported. As part of my individual interview, I will discuss with you any concerns for your or your child(ren)’s safety and assess if mediation is appropriate.
If I or either one identifies the need for safety intervention, or sees benefits of seeking counselling or other interventions, please be assured that I am well connected within the community for appropriate referrals.
While legal representation is not required, I always encourage my clients to consult with legal counsel during or after the mediation process.
Some individuals choose to have their lawyer present at mediation to ensure they fully understand the legal aspects of the agreement, and I fully embrace such practice if both parties agree, and the process is balanced.
Albeit sometimes lawyers offer mediation services, there are distinctions between a mediator and a lawyer. Both may play important roles in legal matters. A lawyer is trained to provide legal counsel, represent clients in court, and advocate for their client’s interests.
Lawyers can give legal advice and represent you in legal proceedings, while mediators focus on fostering communication and helping you reach a resolution outside of the courtroom.
As a certified mediator, I will provide you with the legal information you need to make legally sound decisions that reflect the law.
I cannot not give you advice and tell you what you should do; instead, I am here to empower my clients to reach their own agreements and resolve their disputes in a collaborative and non-adversarial manner.
Unlike court, where a judge makes decisions for you, mediation puts you in control. It’s a collaborative process where both parties work together to find a solution that works for them, rather than relying on a third party to dictate the terms.
Mediation is also more cost-effective and timely. Litigation can be financially and emotionally draining, whereas the costs of my services are significantly lower than legal and court fees.
The process very much depends on the complexity of the issues being addressed and the level of conflict.
Whereas some clients benefit from solely an individual meeting to gather information and never move on to joint sessions, other clients find only 1-2 joint meetings suffice to formulate an agreement. Yet others may need a few more meetings to ensure all concerns are fully addressed.
Being a private practice and in full control over my availability, I am dedicated to only handle a small case load. This ensures I can give my full attention to your family, our correspondence will be timely and meetings can be arranged to fit your schedule.
Mediation itself is not legally binding; however, I am trained to document the agreement you reach in the process in an informal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Some of my clients choose to formalize this document to make it legally binding, specifically if needed to finalize their separation or divorce.
The legal implications are complicated can be confusing and I am here to confidentially inform you about the process and your options.
My clients often find developing a parenting agreement through mediation first and then involve legal resources (if needed) can save substantial financial resources.
General
I am a certified Family Relations Mediator, which means I can address a variety of issues, including determining parental responsibilities, the sharing of parenting time, communication guidelines, child and spousal support.
Family mediation is a flexible process where both parents can bring forward any matters that are important to them to discuss.
Family mediation is a guided process that helps families navigate conflicts and make important decisions without going to court. It’s a collaborative and structured way to resolve issues related to separation, divorce, parenting plans, child and spousal support, and more.
My goal for your family is to find new, effective ways to communicate and to establish a healthy co-parenting relationship - so your children can grow up without conflict and well supported and loved by both parents.
Family Mediation
Schedule a Free Consultation Call
If you would like to explore if mediation and my approach is the right fit for you, please feel free to connect. I offer a free, confidential 15 minute conversation to answer any of your questions.