FAQ

Mediation will always begin with an individual, confidential intake meeting with each party. In this meeting I’ll ask you lots of questions to get to know you and your perspective on the situation. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have.

After intake meetings are complete then joint mediation sessions begin. All of my services are offered in online video meetings using Zoom. As the mediator I guide the process and let you know where there is “homework” of providing documentation and financial disclosure throughout. When mediation is complete, the agreements reached are drafted into a document that can be finalized with signings into your legal Separation Agreement.

Most people can use mediation. Couples in high conflict or on-going disputes can do well in mediation and in fact will have the most to benefit by coming to a resolution. Even if you have already entered the legal system you can often still choose to use mediation instead of, or along with the legal process.

The length of time to come to an agreement will of course depend on how simplified or complicated your personal situation is. In most situations clients prefer to have about two weeks in between meetings, and meet 2-3 times. Most meetings are 2 hours in length. Most couples can reach an agreement within 2-4 months. Usually the timing depends on your own schedules, willingness to meet, and preparedness to discuss the necessary issues.

You are not required to use a lawyer, but I always strongly recommend that you receive independent legal advice before finalizing your agreement. You will receive lots of legal information throughout the mediation process, but a lawyer will advise you on what is specifically in your best legal interest. Some people choose to also involve a lawyer throughout the process and bring that information to mediation. Others choose to have a lawyer to review their agreement (this is called ILA, independent legal advice) when it’s complete. There are some that feel comfortable without legal advice.

I work with many files that are best described as “high conflict,” where clients are unable to communicate in any constructive way outside of mediation. This conflict may also include issues such as substance abuse, mood disorders, abuse, or child protection matters. I am trained in conflict resolution and have extensive experience working with these types of files. Many Ontario lawyers refer such complicated matters to me because they know that mediation offers the best chance for a resolution. “Shuttle” or “caucus” mediation is also available where I will go between the parties rather than them meeting with me at the same time.

Probably. I work with many files that have complex financial matters. These issues can often lead to lengthy and very costly legal action because they are so complex. In mediation, they can be addressed efficiently, gathering all necessary information and deciding on a path to settlement that doesn’t always have to include costly official business valuations or accounting firms.

The average total cost for services needed to reach an agreement is between $2,000-3,500 per person. Cost is dependent upon the issues discussed and services needed. You can contact me to arrange a no-charge consultation call where you can explain your situation and I can give an accurate idea of the cost.