Family Mediation
Family mediation encompasses separation and divorce, family conflicts, and estate disputes. In each of these areas, mediation proves to be an excellent path to achieving resolution.
Separation and Divorce
Mediation, a non-adversarial process, looks at short and long term concerns such as:
- Immediate living arrangements
- Shared parenting plan
- Division of property and assets
- Spousal/partner support
- Debt responsibility
At The CRG, collaborative mediation is practiced. Lawyers and mediators work towards resolving disputes using cooperative strategies and a non adversarial approach. Together, they work in a manner that ultimately benefits the parties. The process generates a positive environment for creating options for settlement, resulting in an agreement.
Shared parenting plans are established by parents or guardians having equal input into the terms and schedules set out in the final agreement. When possible and if appropriate, children may have the opportunity to participate so that their concerns, wishes and fears are addressed. Considerations and clauses may be implemented into the plan for future changes to parties’ circumstances. The mediation agreement may also be revisited or referred to the court at any time during the mediation process.
Family Conflicts
Conflict among family members may create a rift that lasts for years. The result is a loss of family support and severed family ties. Mediation focuses on finding a solution to the problem or conflict. The process provides for cohesiveness in an environment without blame.
Examples of Family Conflicts are:
- Parent/Teen conflicts
- Parent disputes regarding children’s discipline and other parenting issues
- Needs of one or both parents not being met
- Disagreement over financial issues
- Disputes among family members and extended family
Taking family conflicts out of the home and into mediation establishes a positive atmosphere. The mediation room is a forum of neutrality where family members feel equal. It is here that productive family dialogue and resolution occurs.
Estate Disputes
Estate disputes may cause great emotional harm among family members. When they disagree with the distribution of assets, conflict is the result. If the family cannot resolve their differences on their own, the will is contested. This creates a rift which may last for years or forever.
Mediation provides the opportunity to iron out inequalities, actual and perceived. The process deals with the physical estate as well as emotional aspects that occur following the loss of a family member. Mediation sets an environment that is supportive and allows for effective communication. The mediator sets the tone for an open discussion, allowing for equal participation by all parties. Issues can be resolved while avoiding family alienation and litigation.
Benefits of Mediation
- The mediator neutralizes power imbalances between parties
- Resolve highly emotional disputes in a positive and supportive environment
- Manages domestic issues without public court involvement
- Decision-making authority rests with the parties
- Much less expensive than litigation and less adversarial
The Conflict Resolution Group is attentive to the needs of this highly emotional area. Whether it is separation and divorce, family conflicts or estate disputes. The CRG creates an environment that is emotionally supportive for all while allowing all the parties to be heard concluding with a settlement that is acceptable to everyone.