Mediation
Imagine moving through your dispute in a way that reduces your stress and saves you time and money. As your mediator, I can help you to do just that. It is not always easy, but it will be worth it.
GORDON DERRY
B.A., R.T.C.C.
Saskatchewan legislation will soon require couples ending their relationship through separation or divorce to attempt to reconcile their issues through mediation before heading to court. In family law, couples are currently waiting for up to six months for a pretrial conference. When separation or divorce issues are resolved through court, neither party ‘wins’ because of the stress, emotional, and financial toll.
Mediation can provide support for both parties to handle feelings of anger and disappointment that may arise during negotiations. It gives a safe platform to communicate about sometimes tricky topics such as the distribution of property, child custody and parenting arrangements, child support and maintenance, retirement, and taxes.
Separation or divorce mediation is about two parties determining their own arrangements and deciding on the best outcome for both. Creating a solution that is best for all is very important, especially when children are involved. The goal is to help both parties end the relationship as amicably and cost-effectively as possible.
What to Expect from Mediation:
Initial individual session(s) with each of you to explore what you hope to resolve through mediation and how you see things currently.
The number of sessions required will depend on the extent of items to be addressed. The average is 4-6 mutual mediation sessions to reach an agreement on the identified issues.
A respectful environment, led by an informed professional who can guide and support you and safeguard you from being bullied or pressured in the mediation session.
Thoughtful and insightful support to help as you integrate agreements, decided during mediation, into your lives.
Confidentiality. Anything that you say in mediation is kept confidential and is not included in public court records.
Reassurance that you have received responsible and reliable education and support from a mediation process that levels the playing field for both parties at a difficult time.
Typically, the cost of mediation is shared by both parties. Fees may be split differently if both parties agree.
Mediation works best when the parties are open to suggestions and compromise.
Why Choose Mediation:
Mediation is faster, less expensive, and private.
It is better for the overall well-being of the family.
Mediation can help couples build a foundation for co-parenting children.
It allows for more flexible options that meet the needs of those involved.
It is less stressful than going to trial.
Mediation can help couples develop better communication and conflict resolution skills.
It is confidential, unlike a court hearing, where testimony becomes part of the public record.
It allows you to make your own decisions. Often people are not happy with decisions imposed by court orders.
How I can Help:
I will not give you legal advice. I will not take sides nor make decisions for you.
I will, however, provide experience, knowledge, and skill. I will facilitate discussions about relevant issues to your separation or divorce and support both of you as you create open-minded options so you can make a positive path forward for each of you and your family.
I will help you arrive at smart decisions by encouraging you to consult both your head and your heart.
I will help you draw up the settlement agreement. Independent legal counsel can review the agreement, and it can be filed with the court if necessary.