MEDIATION

 Benefits of Mediation

• Mediation is voluntary, parties may leave at any time. 
• Mediation allows parties to work out their own solutions to their family issues. 
• If children are involved, it keeps the focus on their best interests. 
• Mediation may reduce future conflicts by improving the parties' communication and problem solving skills. 
• Mediation is usually less costly and less formal than the court. 
• Mediation is a private process unlike the court.

Issues That Can Be Mediated

• How and when to separate;
• Parenting issues including custody and access;
• Child Support;
• Spousal Support;
• Division of property;
• Other important issues.

Is Mediation Right For You?

For mediation to work, you must:

• Be willing to try to work out a solution with the other party;
• Feel safe to meet with the other party to discuss the issues;
• Be able to communicate your needs and listen tot he other party's concerns.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

Mediation sessions take place when every party is available. The length of time will depend on many factors, such as:

• Number and type of issues;
• Amount of conflict among the parties;
• Degree of communication and cooperation among the parties. ​

Are Lawyers Involved?

Mediators  do not take place of lawyers, we encourage each party to receive  independent legal advice before and throughout the mediation process.  It's important for you to know about your legal rights and obligations  and how the law affects your issues. Each party should review the final  mediated agreement with his or her lawyer before signing. You can start  or continue a court case if you do not reach agreement during  mediation. 

What Is The Mediators Role?

The  mediator's role is to assist the parties to reach a fair and lasting  settlement. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions for the  parties and cannot give legal advice. 

What Is The Best Route To Take?​

Mr.  Craig Rogers is certified by Osgoode Hall Law School in mediation.  There are two potential routes you make take in regards to the mediation  process:

• Each party chooses their own counsel and the parties with their counsel partake in a four-way meeting. 
• The  parties meet with a mediator to discuss and hopefully resolve their  issues. Once the parties come to an agreement, they visit their  respective lawyers to receive legal advice and sign their agreement.

​Ontario Association for Family Mediation   Family Mediation Canada   Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre of Ontario