Family Law

Mediation is an interactive approach that allows both parties to discuss their viewpoints and concerns in a neutral setting. Mediation is conducted by a mediator, who acts as a neutral third party.

Mediation is an effective way to avoid the stress and pressure from the break down of a relationship.

Why you should choose Mediation:

1. Mediation allows you to have more control than court. In court, a judge makes decisions based on the facts presented in court. For various reasons, sometimes not all the information is presented in court, which can lead to undesirable outcomes for both parties. With Mediation, you can come to an agreement that works best for your family.
2. A mediator can help both parties focus on what really matters to them and limit the amount of unproductive dialogue.
3. Mediation is confidential. The details of the Mediation cannot be later used in court, thus allowing the parties to freely discuss possible solutions.
4. Mediation is often more efficient and cost-effective than the court process. Court dates can be unpredictable, inconvenient and stressful. With Mediation there is less coordination required to schedule a date and time. There is also no risk of double booking, causing your matter to be pushed to a later date. Also, the agreement can simply be filed with the court, thus allowing you to move on faster.
5. Mediation can help you better understand family law, thus minimizing any possible misunderstandings.

FAQs-

What issues are addressed in Mediation?

Many issues can be addressed during Mediation. Some examples include:

• Custody;
• Parenting Time;
• Child Support;
• Property Division;
• Spousal Support;
• Debt Division; and
• Asset Division.

Does Mediation address everything?

It does not have to. For example, Mediation could address simply address Property Division and Spousal Support. Mediation is designed to allow each person to discuss the issues that matter to them most. You can go into Mediation already agreeing on spousal support, but not agreeing on Property Division. Mediation is tailored to your family’s specific needs.

What if violence has occurred?

The mediator has the responsibility of ensuring a safe and confidential setting for both parties. In the event that the mediator is unable to ensure both parties feel safe, the Mediation either may not occur or the Mediation may be structured with either party in a separate room or with multiple one-on-one meetings.

Mediation is about getting to a resolution so that both parties may move on from what may be a damaging relationship. Mediation is not about whether abuse has occurred or not.

When is Mediation available?

Mediation is available at any stage of a separation. Some people go to Mediation before any court process, while others go to Mediation after months or years of being in court.

How long is Mediation?

The length of Mediation depends on the cooperation of either party and the number of issues being discussed.

For more tailored answers to your questions, please contacts our offices at (604) 792-1376.

Commercial Disputes

Commercial disputes involve business-related matters.

The scope of commercial disputes involve:

• Construction projects;
• Contracts;
• Landlord and Tenant relationships;
• Shareholders, partnerships, joint ventures;
• Franchises; and
• Employment

Courts are overcrowded, litigation costs are skyrocketing and business relationships are being destroyed.

Parties are frustrated with lawyers, long court delays and procedures which consume large amounts of time, money and energy. Furthermore, the result at trial is not guaranteed.

Mediation offers a way for parties to resolve their conflicts quickly, fairly and confidentially. This is done through a third party who will assist the parties negotiate towards a resolution.