Mediation
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a negotiation between two parties with a professionally trained neutral third-party (the mediator) who assists both parties come to a mutual resolution. A court battle can be long, stressful, and costly and for some a mediation may be a better and more feasible option as a mediation is faster, less costly, and is private and confidential. Every situation is different, and mediation may be the better approach for your disagreement/dispute.
Mediators do NOT take sides, make decisions, or give legal advice (see below).
Mediation can be used prior to starting a court proceeding, during a court proceeding, or to avoid going to court.
Mediation will only work if both parties are willing to work out a solution, both parties feel safe talking to each other about the issues, and you are wiling to listen to each others concerns.
Over the course of a mediation the mediator can help both parties reach an agreement if they are willing. The mediator will then put what you have agreed to in a document which will become legally binding once both parties sign the agreement.
What can Mediation be used for?
Family Law
· Prenuptial agreement negotiations
· Separation
· Financial or budget disagreements
· Eldercare
· Adult sibling disputes
· Divorce
· Parenting
· Child Custody
Employment Law
· Wrongful termination
· Interoffice or workplace disagreements / disputes
· Discrimination
· Harassment
· Grievances
· Labour management
Other
· School conflicts
· Contract negotiations / disagreements
· Landlord / Tenant disputes
· Partnerships
· And MORE
How will mediation benefit me?
The Five C’s of Mediation - A Smarter Way to Resolve Disputes
1. Cost
Mediation is significantly more affordable than going to court. Most matters resolve in a half-day or full day — not months or years. Court proceedings can take a year or more, with mounting legal fees and ongoing stress. Mediation saves you time, money, and uncertainty.
2. Confidentiality
Private (closed) mediation is confidential. What’s discussed stays in the room and cannot be used against you in court. This allows both parties to speak openly and work toward real solutions — without fear.
3. Control
In court, a judge or jury decides your outcome. In mediation, you do. The parties work together to craft a mutually agreeable, legally binding resolution — often preserving relationships and reducing stress.
4. Compliance
Agreements reached through mediation have a high success rate because both parties helped create the solution. The final agreement is legally binding and enforceable, providing clarity, accountability, and peace of mind.
5. Care
A trained mediator acts as a neutral facilitator, guiding constructive discussion and creative problem-solving. The focus is not just on settling a dispute — but on reaching a fair, practical resolution that works for everyone involved.
Mediation - Legal Advice
A mediator will not provide either party with legal advice.
Should either party wish to know their legal rights, it is strongly recommended they seek legal advice before and/or throughout the mediation from a legal professional who is not the mediator. A paralegal or lawyer may be involved in your mediation but is not required to be present at the mediation. It is always recommended prior to signing any agreement to get individual legal advice.
