Is Mediation the Right Choice for You?
Mediation uses an impartial third party to help a couple reach a resolution on all issues related to your separation and divorce.
Over 95% of our clients reach an agreement on all issues — often within one or two meetings.
Read more below about our process and the issues that are most often discussed in Mediation.
To learn more: book a 10 minute phone call, come in for a couples consultation, or book time with one of our mediators to get started.
Getting Started
Sometimes the first step is the hardest. Which first step would be best for you?
- a “no obligation” Couples Consultation to learn about divorce and see if mediation / assisted negotiation is a good fit for you.
- A working meeting (either as a couple or individual) (fees apply). You would be amazed at how much progress can be made in a few hours. You choose the length of the meeting. You are charged only for the time you use.
Mediation
Mediation has been shown to be faster, less expensive. Families report a higher satisfaction with settlements, are more likley to follow the agreement, and are less likley to find themselves in the court process.
In detail…
Mediation is based on the idea that many couples do not want to fight and want to reach an agreement. They just need some assistance to work through the issues.
95% of our files will finish with an agreement between the couple. This means that each spouse feels the agreement is reasonable and fair in the circumstances
This is different than the ‘normal’ adversarial two lawyer model which attempts to maximize one party’s position at the expense of the other. Adversarial law increases conflict and can be very damaging to children.
Our process is efficient and solution focused and spends no time on blame. Many couples find they have dealt with all issues after just two meetings (some in one meeting). Clients are expected to act in a civil and courteous manner (or we will stop the meeting). Meetings are usually spread out by a week or two with the entire process taking about a month. While we can proceed faster, most clients need some time to think and reflect on their decisions.
Mediation Steps
OPTIONAL COUPLES CONSULTATION
You do not need to bring anything with you. We will discuss general information about separation and divorce. We will explain our ground rules and what you can expect for costs and process. This meeting is optional. Some clients would rather skip this meeting and start with a working meeting.
GATHER DOCUMENTS
Prior to coming in for a working meeting, you should gather as many documents as you can. By agreement, you can work with rough numbers if you wish. Click *here* for a suggested list of documents.
MEETING #1
Divide assets & debts, determine child support, negotiate spousal support. Most people find this is enough for one meeting and typically want to adjourn parenting discussions to a second meeting.
MEETING #2
Develop a parenting plan.
REVIEW AND SIGN DOCUMENTS
Which documents do you need? (Chances are you will need at least 11).
Separation agreement, Alberta divorce documents on the correct shade of green paper, Canada Pension Plan Credit Division, statutory declaration, registration of support payments, reduction of tax at source, change in marital status, property title transfer, dower release, matrimonial property order, pension valuations, pension division, transfer RRSP’s without tax, corporate share transfers, statement of claim, affidavit of applicant, divorce judgement, application for divorce certificate, etc.
Some firms will only draft a mediator’s report (for a large fixed fee), and leave you to navigate the rest of the process. We will do as much or as little as you want. Pay only for the time you use.
Our Mediation Process
We have developed our mediation process in over several thousand meetings.
It is civil, dignified, and focuses on the future and solutions.
Information
Information is power. Take a few minutes to learn general legal information about how things are done in Alberta.
In detail…
There are 4 issues of Separation and Divorce. Read more by clicking the titles.
Types of assets and debts, how to value property, dates to use, what property is exempt from division?
The 2 types of child support. How do you determine income? How long does child support last?
Spousal support is complicated. Why is there spousal support? What factors are considered?
Why a good parenting plan benefits you.