At Align Family Law, we understand that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that they can also change over time. But those changes don’t have to be devastating. Through third party mediation, our experienced lawyers can help separating couples resolve their family law disputes collaboratively, stay out of court, save legal costs, and preserve their co-parenting relationship.
Vancouver
Mediation Lawyers
Vancouver
Mediation Lawyers
At Align Family Law, we understand that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that they can also change over time. But those changes don’t have to be devastating. Through third party mediation, our experienced lawyers can help separating couples resolve their family law disputes collaboratively, stay out of court, save legal costs, and preserve their co-parenting relationship.
Our Vancouver Mediation Services
At Align Family Law, we use mediation as a tool to help families move collaboratively through the family law issues they are dealing with and towards a brighter future.
Mediation at Align Family Law can look one of two ways:
Work With Our Accredited Family Law Mediator
Joanne Martin is a certified family law mediator recognized by the Law Society of British Columbia. She employs a methodical approach, serving as an unbiased third party to assist individuals in negotiating and devising an agreement that suits their family’s needs. In this mediation format, participants often opt to attend sessions independently, without their own legal representatives.
The process typically unfolds as follows:
Attend Third-Party Mediation With Your Align Family Law Lawyer
Our lawyers regularly represent clients as legal counsel in family law mediation. In this model, each party is represented by their own lawyer. The parties jointly retain an impartial third party to act as a family law mediator. The goal is for the parties, through the mediation process, to reach a resolution on the issues related to their separation.
It is our experience that when separating parties are able to arrive at a settlement of their dispute out of court as opposed to going through a trial, the benefits can be significant.
No matter which path you take, the Align team remains steadfast in assisting individuals through separation, guiding them towards a new life trajectory with minimal stress.
What Our Clients Say
Our Vancouver Mediation Process
STEP TWO:
We’ll listen to your story, clearly set out your options so you can determine your best next steps.
STEP THREE:
Together, we’ll get to work resolving your issues and getting you started on the next chapter of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mediation in British Columbia family law?
In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions between two parties to reach mutually acceptable agreements on issues such as child custody, spousal support, property division, and other issues. Mediators usually work with couples going through a divorce, but they can help in many situations.
How does mediation differ from litigation in British Columbia?
Mediation is a way of resolving a legal dispute outside of court – promoting cooperation and reducing conflict compared to traditional litigation. Unlike litigation, which involves a judge making final decisions, mediation allows couples to maintain control over the outcome and often results in quicker, less adversarial, and more cost-effective resolutions.
Do I need a lawyer for mediation in British Columbia?
While not mandatory, having independent legal advice during mediation is advisable to ensure your rights are protected and any agreements reached are fair and legally binding. In addition, many family lawyers have close professional relationships with mediators, meaning that a good family lawyer can recommend you a good mediator, and vice versa.
Is mediation confidential in British Columbia?
Yes, mediation sessions are confidential, meaning discussions and negotiations that take place during mediation cannot be used as evidence in court proceedings. This is intended to foster open and honest communication between both parties, without concern for how their statements might be used against them.
Can children be involved in mediation in British Columbia?
In some cases, children may participate in mediation. Mediators may meet with the child independently first, to ensure that their voices are heard in a safe and neutral environment, allowing parents to better understand their needs and preferences. If you think mediation might be the right step for your family, contact an experienced family lawyer today to learn about your options.
Contact Our Mediation Lawyers Today
Through third-party mediation, our team at Align Family Law has seen transformations in our clients’ lives. We’re proud of the work that we’ve done to help families move towards a brighter future.
Call us today to discuss how we can assist you through your family law matter in mediation.
Are you looking for a family lawyer?
We have offices in Victoria, Kimberley and Vancouver and can assist clients anywhere in British Columbia.
Fill out our form and an Align Family Law team member will contact you within one business day to schedule your Zoom call with a British Columbia family law lawyer.