Empowering Peaceful Resolutions
Gain expert guidance navigating legal disputes through mediation. At Kootenay Mediation you will find a secure environment to express yourself, whether individually or as a group, and access experienced assistance in reaching just resolutions on all types of legal disputes, particularly family law matters. By avoiding court, you will save valuable time and finances.
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Mediation over Court
Mediation offers a valuable opportunity for individuals to take control of resolving their issues on their own terms. By engaging in mediation, involved parties can potentially save time, money, and emotional distress. It is almost always beneficial for separating families to find their own solutions and direct whatever resources they have towards their children's well-being or their own financial stability, rather than fighting in court.
Mediators offer parties legal information, provide suggestions and alternatives, and formalize agreements. Mediation may not be suitable in all situations, particularly where there is family violence.
Collaborative Law
Collaborative Law is another effective approach to resolving disputes outside of court, particularly in more complex situations. This process involves the collaboration of two lawyers who, with combined experience, work together to find mutually agreeable outcomes. In many cases, other experts are involved including counselors and financial experts.
Collaborative law provides a structured and supportive environment for parties to address their concerns and reach a resolution that meets their unique needs.
About
Kootenay Mediation is Judah Harrison,
Barrister & Solicitor
As a family lawyer with nearly 15 years experience, I am dedicated to assisting individuals and families in navigating legal issues, particularly those pertaining to family breakdowns. Legal issues that must often be resolved include parenting plans, child and spousal support, and dividing assets and debts. On many occasions, I have seen the benefit of people resolving their legal issues on their own terms; collaboratively and through mediation, rather than through court.
Mediation Process: What to Expect
Initial Contact:
Use our contact form below or phone to express your interest in our mediation services.
Initial Consultation:
We offer a free consultation to assess whether mediation is suitable for your situation. This consultation typically lasts 15-20 minutes. During this time, we will discuss your needs and determine if mediation is an appropriate option.
Pre-Mediation Interview
If mediation is deemed appropriate, a pre-mediation interview is scheduled where all parties will individually have an opportunity to share their perspectives and goals for the mediation process. These meetings typically run 45 minutes to 1 hour. We will all discuss the need to exchange financial information, value certain assets and other prerequisites to have a more effective mediation session.
Mediation Session:
Once all parties have agreed to proceed, a mediation session will be scheduled. The duration of the session will vary depending on the complexity of the issues involved, typically lasting from 3 to 4 hours. Most families require at least two mediation sessions to resolve all issues, though some may need 3 sessions, others only 1 session.
Formalizing the Agreement:
Once an agreement is reached at a mediation, it needs to be formalized, most often in the form of a Separation Agreement. It typically takes an additional 4 - 5 hours for us to draft the Final Agreement, and each participant is permitted to obtain Independent Legal Advice on any Final Agreement before signing it.
Payment Arrangements:
Generally, participants split the cost of mediation equally, unless someone has kindly offered to cover the expense. This ensures a fair distribution of financial responsibility among the parties involved. The rate for mediation is $300 per hour.
Please note that the specific details of the mediation process may vary based on individual circumstances. Our aim is to facilitate an effective and collaborative resolution process, providing a neutral and supportive environment for all parties involved.
Book a Consultation
Please provide the following information to contact by email.
You may also call at 250-777-2369, if you prefer.