The way your family looks can change can change over time, but those changes don’t have to be devastating. At Align Family Law, we work with families throughout British Columbia to utilize collaboration and cooperation whenever possible, and we are experienced at helping our clients through mediation. Through family law mediation, our experienced lawyers can help separating couples resolve their family law disputes, stay out of court, save legal costs and preserve their co-parenting relationship.
Victoria
Mediation Lawyers
Victoria
Mediation Lawyers
The way your family looks can change can change over time, but those changes don’t have to be devastating. At Align Family Law, we work with families throughout British Columbia to utilize collaboration and cooperation whenever possible, and we are experienced at helping our clients through mediation. Through family law mediation, our experienced lawyers can help separating couples resolve their family law disputes, stay out of court, save legal costs and preserve their co-parenting relationship.
Our Victoria Mediation Services
At Align Family Law, we work with families of all shapes and sizes to successfully advance through mediation and onto a brighter future.
Our mediation services can look one of two ways:
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.
Work With Our Accredited Family Law Mediator
Joanne Martin is an accredited family law mediator with the Law Society of British Columbia. She uses a step-by-step process acting as a neutral, impartial third party, helping the people involved to negotiate and shape an agreement that works for their family. In this mediation model, the parties often choose to attend mediation on their own without their own lawyers.
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.
The process generally proceeds as follows:
No matter which route you choose to take, our team at Align is committed to helping you through your separation and on to a new path for your life with as little stress as possible.
What Our Clients Say
Our Victoria 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 the issues and getting you started on your next chapter.
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
Our team at Align Family Law is proud of the work that we do and the transformation we see in the clients that we help.
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.