Couples who are looking for a fair and efficient divorce process often look into divorce mediation in Calgary. It can help couples resolve the issue of their divorce with a neutral party and leave with an outcome that works for all parties.
If you’re considering divorce mediation in Calgary but don’t know how it works, what it takes, or who to call – you’ve come to the right place. We’ll help break down the inner workings of the process and help you work out if it’s right for you.
What Is Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation is a collaborative process that allows divorcing couples to come to a mutual understanding and control the outcome. It’s done with a trained mediator present, who is a neutral, third-party professional. The mediator’s job is to keep the spouses focused on the goal of a fair outcome instead of battling over resentments and differences.
During mediation, the mediator will guide couples to address the issues associated with divorce and reach an agreement. That can include asset and property division, child custody arrangements, spousal support, child support, and other topics.
Mediation vs. Traditional Process
One of the reasons many couples are looking into mediation is that it’s fundamentally different from the traditional divorce process. The former is a non-adversarial process and, with the help of a neutral third party, the spouses work together to reach an agreement. That agreement should make the most sense to both after taking into account their family circumstances.
With this type of mediation, couples will most often finalize their divorce without having to go to court. What’s more, an additional benefit is that this process takes less time compared to litigation.
Another reason spouses are choosing divorce mediation in Calgary is that it offers a certain level of flexibility. Couples can reach agreements in a much more cost-effective solution.
Finally, the mediation process allows parents to come up with more unique agreements that would work for both, not just one spouse.
How Does Mediation Work?
Divorce mediation in Calgary is typically a private negotiation with only the spouses and the mediator present in the room. You will also see lawyers or family members there if both parties have agreed.
Many spouses go into mediation so they can work out their entire case outside of court. However, at times, mediation can be a part of a court-contested process and you might be required to only work out one aspect of the divorce, like a parenting plan, for example.
Calgary divorce mediators who also practice family law can help you draft an agreement once you resolve any outstanding issues. That settlement is legally binding and to be respected by all parties once it is signed with independent legal advice.
How Long Does Mediation Last?
Divorce mediation in Calgary typically lasts as long as it is needed. The length of the process will depend on how complex your case is and the number of sessions you’ll need.
That said, the process typically takes between 3–6 months, spread across 1–5 sessions, lasting between 1–4 hours per session. Gathering documents, getting appraisals, and the speed with which the issues are getting resolved all go into the total length.
Why You Need a Divorce Mediator
The role of a mediator is to facilitate communication between divorcing spouses and guide them to make decisions and come to an agreement. During the process, the spouses should decide:
- Which assets to divide and how to divide them
- Which custody agreement is appropriate for the family
- Whether alimony, spousal, or child support is necessary
- How to determine the amount of support
Keep in mind that the person who is mediating will not be making any decisions for you, nor will they be able to represent you if the case goes to litigation. That’s the role of a family lawyer and litigator. However, a mediator will help you identify your options and navigate you through the divorce process so you can make the best decision for yourself.
You should also know that whatever you discuss in mediation is confidential.
How to Choose the Right Mediator
If you want to help your chances of reaching an agreement through mediation – you need someone neutral, professional, and experienced. When it comes to divorce mediation services, we at Calgary Family Law Associates know what it takes to ensure the best results.
Our team of mediators and collaborative family law lawyers in Calgary offer alternative dispute resolution services throughout Alberta. To learn more about how we can support you through this process – call today.
FAQs
What is divorce mediation?
A process where a neutral, third party known as a mediator, assists divorcing spouses in resolving their disputes and reaching agreements on a variety of issues is called divorce mediation.
Who can benefit from divorce mediation?
Couples who are willing to cooperate and negotiate with each other in good faith to reach agreements can benefit from mediation. Also, those who want to maintain control over the outcome of their divorce and minimize conflict can opt for this process.
How much does divorce mediation cost in Calgary?
The cost of your mediation will depend on the complexity of your case and the length of the process. Typically, hourly rates for mediation range from CAD 350 to CAD 650 per hour, but contact your mediator to get an exact quote.
How does the divorce mediation process work in Alberta?
During mediation, divorcing spouses will meet with a neutral mediator who will help guide the conversation and come to a compromise. The topics most often discussed during mediation include splitting assets and debts, spousal support, alimony, and child custody.