Mediation

Mediation is an alternative form of dispute resolution that saves you time and money. If both parties wish to avoid court proceedings but can't come to a reasonable resolution on their own, mediation is a practical option. It is a structured process designed to assist parties in conflict resolution. The mediator is a neutral party who assists the parties to negotiate a settlement through open and positive communication.  You can choose the option that will serve your needs best: Mediation Services Provided by a Lawyer or Lawyer-Assisted Mediation.

Mediation Services by a Lawyer

Mediation services are provided by a lawyer who is specially trained to act as a neutral party.

Your mediator will facilitate private negotiations focused on: 

• Both parties being heard and treated with empathy and respect;

• Assisting both parties to express their interests and reasons behind their desired outcome; and

• Working towards a resolution that both parties are committed to.

Once agreeable terms are reached, your mediator will prepare a legally binding agreement that reflects the outcomes agreed upon. The parties will then obtain Independent Legal Advice from a lawyer of their choosing to ensure that they each understand their legal rights, obligations, and all terms of the agreement. 

A lawyer who is acting as a mediator can provide the parties with legal information but must remain neutral and cannot provide legal advice to either party.

Lawyer-Assisted Mediation

Lawyer-assisted mediation is when both parties agree to bring their lawyers into the process of conventional mediation. This is helpful if you feel your voice isn't being heard and can be an effective option if one or both parties feel they need a little extra help staying on track and understanding the legal issues and process during the mediation. 

Contact Aspire Family Law to determine if mediation is the right step for you.