What is Mediation?

Mediation is a meeting between people to discuss possible ways of solving issues between or amongst them. The mediator is a neutral person who helps moderate the discussion, identify issues, and facilitate solutions.

Mediation is informal and, unlike the more formal court processes like trial, is not subject to strict rules and regulations. It is a flexible process that can be tailored to suit the individual needs of each party participating. You can attend mediation on your own or with your lawyer. Either way, mediation provides each participant the opportunity to have their say.

Mediation is more of an approach to conflict resolution, and less a strictly defined process. With mediation, people become part of the process, helping to shape it and define it according to their unique situations. Mediation accepts that people can work through their own problems, can have a say in how this is done, can articulate their concerns and voice their suggestions.

Your mediator is there to assist, not to judge. A mediator can assist each party to explain their perspective, and then help direct a discussion of issues that emerge. Rather than deciding for you, a skilled mediator helps you decide and resolve issues that affect your life in ways both great and small.