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Do I need a lawyer?
We recommend everyone who participates in the mediation process have access to legal advice. Each party who seeks a separation or divorce needs to formalize a legal document called a Separation Agreement and we recommend this document should be reviewed by a lawyer. Mediators are not lawyers; they are third party neutrals who can facilitate the mutually beneficial negotiation between parties that build an agreement.
At the conclusion of a mediation process you will have a Memorandum of Understanding completed. This document outlines the terms and conditions of agreement that have been reached between the parties. Each parties lawyer will then review this document and in turn will complete the final Separation Agreement which is then filed with the court for their Divorce Order.
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Does my lawyer attend the mediation session?
Sometimes. Lawyers are not required to attend mediation sessions. While some parties do choose to bring their lawyer, others choose not to in an effort to manage costs of multiple professionals. If a party does bring their lawyer to mediation, then Christine requires all parties to have lawyers present during the session to ensure fairness of process.
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Why is Mediation better?
Mediation is a voluntary process from which the parties can create their own story of how they choose to separate. The agreements are informed by the rules of the law and can creatively reflect the unique needs of the parties. The model of a family transforms from marriage to separation then divorce. The mediation process respects this transformation while supporting the parties by enabling their best problem-solving, to create mutually agreeable agreements. Christine puts the family model at the forefront, as the parties maintain their autonomy and build their future, as separate and together.
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What is the Role of a Mediator?
Christine works as a third party neutral to facilitate the negotiation process and help the parties achieve agreeable decisions. Christine engages in tools like active listening to identify parties needs and interests, and then helping to analyze and generate problem solving solutions. Decision making remains with the parties to achieve together. Christine’s professional commitment is to provide a safe environment with which to build the best agreements reflecting the realities of the parties family and the work accomplished together during mediation.
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How do I know if Mediation is right for me?
Mediation does not require parties to work well together to be successful. However, it does require each party to feel safe to express their point of view, understand the choices being considered and demonstrate an ability to advocate for themself. Where imbalances in understanding can surface, Christine will seek to re-set the balance so that both parties can make informed and reasoned decisions in the settlement. You are not expected to be a subject matter expert in all matters of your conflict. So, where necessary, Christine will recommend seeking guidance from outside experts such as financial professionals to support you. Still unsure? Get in touch and let’s figure this out together.
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Getting Started with a free consultation?
We can have a brief conversation to discuss any questions you may have pertaining to the process of mediation.
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How expensive is it to mediate?
The cost of your mediation can depend on several factors such as number of issues to resolve, complexity, ability to collaborate between parties, and the experience of your mediator. Keep in mind compared to going to trial, mediation supports your decision-making over a third party and can be more cost effective.
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Can we do this online?
Mediation sessions can be hosted either in person or online and will require the active participation of all parties. Online sessions are delivered over the Zoom platform and will require you to have access to a private independent space during the sessions.
Let’s Get started with a free 30 minute consultation.