Frequently Asked Questions

Because it lets you and your spouse make the decisions, instead of a judge. Mediation is private, it costs a fraction of litigation, and it usually takes weeks rather than years. Most importantly, it gives you a way to separate without turning someone you once loved into an opponent.

To help you reach a solution together. In mediation, we're here for both of you, and our goal is for both of you to leave the room satisfied.

Mediation may not be right if someone's safety is at risk, for example where there has been family violence or child abuse. In that case, you can take your matter directly to court, and you may qualify for legal aid to help pay for a lawyer.

A mediator is a neutral go-between and a voice of reason. We help you reach an agreement you can both accept, and keep you from getting derailed or stuck in the same argument.

If you don't reach an agreement, you can still take the issue to court. Trying mediation first doesn't take away your right to go to court.

Avoid saying things that push the other person away, and when something difficult has to be said, say it as gently as you can. Setting ground rules at the start helps keep the conversation from turning into an attack. And asking the mediator to deliver hard messages for you doesn't make them easier to hear; it only shifts the resentment onto the

I practise closed mediation, which means our sessions are private and confidential. I can only disclose what is said if I believe someone is at risk of harm, or if I'm required to by a court.

ILA (independent legal advice) is advice from a lawyer who acts only for you. Before you sign, the lawyer makes sure you fully understand the agreement, its possible consequences and the legal and financial responsibilities you're taking on.