Family Mediation

Family Mediation is a co-operative, confidential, and voluntary process in which a neutral professional helps separated couples discuss the changes facing them.

Options are explored in an effort to reach mutually agreeable solutions which take into consideration the needs of the family.

HOW MEDIATION WORKS

About 6-10 sessions are required, including both individual and joint appointments.
A fair and equitable settlement is the goal, based on relevant information researched by the couple with the assistance of the appropriate professionals.
Mediation may involve the children or new partners.
Either the clients or the mediator may terminate the mediation at any stage.
The mediator prepares a report at the termination of mediation for clients to take to their lawyer.

BENEFITS OF MEDIATION

You remain in control of the decisions that are made.
Together you make decisions in everyone's best interest.
Together you make decisions that best suit your situation.
You are the architect of your agreement and decisions are therefore usually long-lasting.
Mediation helps separate the spousal role from the parental role.
Mediation helps minimize conflict, stress and disruptions.
Mediation helps improve communication and understanding.
Mediation is less costly and require less time than litigation.
Mediation can help you develop new skills.
Mediation can address both long-term and short-term needs.
Mediation helps protect and nurture relationships with children during and after separation.
Mediation is a co-operative rather than competitive process.

ROLE OF THE MEDIATOR

The mediator controls the process, facilitating the clients to generate solutions. The mediator does not offer therapy or legal advice.

ROLE OF THE LAWYER

The lawyer's role is to offer legal advice and consultation throughout the process, as needed. The lawyer helps you to understand your legal rights and obligations.
The mediation report should be reviewed with your lawyer prior to signing your agreement.

WHO MAY ATTEND MEDIATION

If you are both committed to a mutually fair settlement and wish to keep conflict to a minimum, mediation may be for you.
If you want to reach agreement and preserve your relationship with your children, mediation may be for you.
If you need assistance with many or even a few decisions because of separation or divorce, mediation may be for you.
Mediation is not for those who feel intimidated by their partner.
Mediation is not always suitable where there is a history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
The mediator can help you decide if mediation is for you.

HOW TO APPLY

Discuss with your partner to see if mediation is something you both want to explore. Feel free to contact us to make an application for mediation. The mediator will contact you to answer your questions or set up an appointment.

COSTS

The mediation fees at Family Service Windsor - Essex County are competitive with other mediation services offered by recognized mediators throughout the province. The fee is shared between yourself and your partner. Details regarding fees are finalized with the mediator.

MEDIATORS

It is important to note that our mediator is certified through Family Mediation Canada and the Ontario Association of Family Mediators Accreditation.

Lilian Henrikson, B.A., M.Ed.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Ontario Association for Family Mediation
Family Mediation Canada
ADR Institute