When it comes to most disputes there are many ways a matter might be resolved. One of those approaches is mediation. In the course of a mediation, the parties seeking to resolve issues will work with a neutral third party. With that individual’s assistance the parties work together to come to an agreement on the disputed matters.
Though the process can be effective in a any situations, it is often used in conjunction with family law matters. Specifically, it could be useful in determining how property and debts will be divided and how much spousal or child support will be paid. Because this process is generally less contentious than going to court, it is often a very good option particularly when the matters that need to be resolved involve children, including access to a child, child guardianship and child custody.
While this approach may be a given for couples who get along, even those who cannot stand to be in the same room together can often benefit from family law mediation. In some situations it is possible a mediation could be conducted over the internet or phone. Even when distance is not the issue, a mediation can be conducted with the parties separated. The mediator could move from one room to another so the couple does not need to be together in the same room
To make sure their best interests are protected, most people who use mediation to resolve a family law matter do so with the assistance of a lawyer. A family lawyer experienced with family law mediation can help guide you through the process and answer your questions as they arise.
At Peterson Stark Scott, Senior Family Lawyers G.C. (Scottie) Scott and Trudy Macdonald regularly help their clients as lawyers in family law mediatons. In addition, both are Accredited by the Law Society of BC as Family Law Mediators.