Having worked in the field of family dispute resolution for several years, I understand that domestic conflicts can be emotionally draining, expensive and challenging to navigate. I want to assure you that I am here to help you find a compassionate and effective solution that works for you and your loved ones.
As a Certified Family Law Specialist, I am well-versed in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, dedicate my time to find creative solutions for even the most complicated problems. Whether you need a mediator, an arbitrator, or just sound legal advice, I am here to assist you.
What is Family Mediation?
Family Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party called a Mediator helps parties in the resolution of their family disputes.
Mediation offers a voluntary process that enables people to talk with one another in an informal, safe, and confidential setting.
Family Mediation is often successful in resolving the numerous issues stemming from Separation and Divorce which commonly include: Decision making (Custody), Parenting time (Access), Financial support issues (Spousal Support, Child Support, and other specific child-related expenses known in Ontario as Section 7 expenses), and the equalization of family assets.
Mediations can be scheduled during non-business hours. In order to meet the needs of working people and busy parents, our mediations can be arranged in the evenings and on weekends, as well as virtually via Zoom.
Overview of the Mediation Process
Let me help you navigate this challenging time with care and compassion, following a simple process:
In all cases, each party will attend a one hour separate confidential intake meeting with the mediator prior to commencing the mediation session. This confidential session allows each party to tell their side of the story, voice their concerns, and let the mediator know what they are hoping to resolve. This meeting is also a chance for the mediator to screen parties in order to ensure that mediation is appropriate for their situation, and/or determine whether or not mediation is an appropriate process for them. In certain circumstances, special safeguards must be implemented in the mediation sessions. These may be for safety concerns and other valid reasons.
During the initial session, the mediator will ask many questions, and conversely will also answer any questions that the parties may have prior to attending the mediation session.
If the parties decide to proceed with the mediator, they will receive Agreements to mediate which are to be reviewed and signed by each party and the mediator.
After the individual intake sessions, mediation sessions will be scheduled for the parties at a mutually agreeable time - either as joint or shuttle mediation - as decided by the mediator. Each mediation session is scheduled for two to three hours. My preference is to schedule separate sessions for Parenting and Financial issues.
If the parties reach an agreement on any issue, the mediator will put the agreed upon items into a written document called a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Each party would review the MOU with their individual lawyers. The terms of the MOU can be incorporated into a Separation Agreement and each party obtains Independent Legal Advice from their respective lawyers. You can choose to enter mediation at any time before or during your court proceeding.
Summary of Steps Involved in Family Mediation:
Step 1: Intake and screening
Step 2: Agreement to mediate
Step 3: Share your financial information
Step 4: Mediation
In my role as a mediator, I will not offer legal advice. Parties are strongly encouraged to obtain independent legal advice and to consult with a lawyer, if needed.
What is Family Arbitration?
Arbitration is a way for you and your spouse to try and come to an agreement and decide on important matters like divorce, property matters, and parenting time. It is a process where each person tells their side of the story to a neutral party (the arbitrator) and asks the arbitrator to decide. You and the other person must agree on what the arbitrator will decide on before arbitration begins.
The arbitrator makes decisions based on the law. A decision from an arbitrator is called an award. Arbitration is less formal and more flexible than going to court.
You and the other person must get independent legal advice from a lawyer before starting arbitration. This is necessary for family arbitration awards to be enforceable in court.
For more information about the Arbitration process, please visit: Family arbitration | ontario.ca
Practice Areas
Certified Specialist Family Law
