Family Mediation
Family Mediation is a formal dispute resolution option to resolve family issues resulting from separation and divorce. A trained and Accredited Family Mediator who is a neutral third party helps you and the other party come to an agreement by facilitate conversations between parents. The mediator will assist both parents in identifying their needs, clarifying issues, and reaching an agreement that fits your new family dynamics.
Some issues that may be discussed in Mediation include but are not limited to:
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Parenting Plans
Decision Making (Formerly known as Custody)
Parenting Time (Formerly known as Access)
Holiday Schedules
Communication Issues
Child Support/Section 7 - Extra-ordinary Expenses
Spousal Support (Formerly known as Alimony)
Division of Assets and Debts
Pensions/RRSP/TFSA/GIC
Equalization Payments
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What Is Mediation?
Mediation involves a trained neutral third party who helps you and the other party in a family dispute to come to an agreement about decision-making, parenting time, child support issues, spousal support issues and property. The mediator will help you and the other person identify your needs, clarify issues, and reach an agreement that fits your particular situation.
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What are the Goals of Mediation?
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To provide an opportunity to resolve issues without going to court
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To help with better communication and understanding
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To come to an agreement acceptable to both parties
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To focus on what best suits your family's needs
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Can I bring Someone to Mediation with me?
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You can have a support person attend mediation with you however, it needs to be agreed upon by both the Mediator and the other party. They are there to help you feel more comfortable and support you, they do not participate in the Mediation.
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How Does Mediation Work?
A trained mediator will meet with you and the other person for your initial intake appointments separately. Then, if it is appropriate to do so, the mediator will then try to help you discuss issues and come to an agreement on those topics. Mediators do not give legal advice and do not force you to reach an agreement, mediation is an entirely voluntary process.
If Mediation is deemed appropriate, each person will sign an Agreement to Mediate, which outlines the way the mediation will be carried out. You will then begin to meet together with the mediator (sometimes you may still meet separately if necessary). The Mediator must remain neutral, and therefore will not provide legal advice.
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What are the advantages?
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You may be able to avoid court proceedings.​
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You save a significant amount of time and money.​
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You learn to communicate with the other person effectively.​
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You can reach an agreement that best suits your family.
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Do I need a Lawyer?
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A lawyer is always recommended to provide Independent Legal Advice before, during and/or after Mediation.
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Your lawyer can:​
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Provide you with Independent Legal Advice;​
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Recommend what is in your best interests;​
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Review and explain what the report means;​
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Attend and participate in the mediation sessions if agreeable;​
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File the report with the court and/or have it made into a court order so that it is enforceable.
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Do I have to Attend Mediation?
No, mediation is a voluntary process. Both people involved need to be willing to attend. Mediation can be terminated by either the parents or the Mediator at any time throughout the process.
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Is Mediation Confidential?
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The mediator will discuss their confidentiality policy with you. Mediation is a closed process, information discussed is confidential with the exception of concerns for a child in need of protection, vulnerable adults, or potential threat to human life or safety. Mediators will not be subpoenaed to court as a witness, nor will they disclose any personal information to anyone without consent.
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Where do we need to go for Mediation?
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Currently, all Mediation is done via Zoom, however, we will soon have an office in Sault Ste. Marie.
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If you want to meet in person prior to our office opening, we do have spaces available to meet you in person.