Category Archives: Family Mediation

Can I bring my mother to the mediation? (or sibling, new partner, best friend, etc…)

In some cases, family mediators can have the sense that the forces really driving the conflict— or advocating for resolution— are not in the room. These “non”-parties can be loud, influential and important. How can mediators acknowledge and even include them in the process, directly or indirectly? In particular, how do mediators balance the need to hear all important voices …
MORE

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Mediation Process:
(from intake/screening to Mediation Summary report)

The Mediation Process: Intake Form and Agreement to Mediate Intake Form: Each client is required to complete and submit an Intake Form: This form requires information, including about each party; issues to be mediated; whether the matter is in Court; any existing separation agreement(s); previous Court Order(s); contact details of parties and lawyers; basic employment and income information; information relating …
MORE

Some Tips for New Mediators

Being the “new kid” has historically been challenging, whether it’s at a new school, a new job, or moving to a new town with your kids and having to navigate a whole set of new parents. The “new kid” theme has fuelled novels and movies and comedies since time immemorial, capitalizing on that all too familiar discomfited feeling of not …
MORE

Mediation vs. Arbitration: What is the Difference?

What is the difference between Mediation vs. Arbitration? Mediation: Is a voluntary negotiation led by a mediator who does not make decisions. Mediators screen each party first to ensure the matter is appropriate for mediation Mediation can be in person or virtual; in one room or by shuttle between two rooms; and can take place over several days or all …
MORE

Shuttle Mediation: Some Benefits and Pitfalls (Part 2: The Pitfalls)

As a mediator, helping parties navigate discussions toward settlement involves creating an adaptive process that supports that agenda. The use of shuttle mediation comes with benefits and some possible pitfalls! It is up to a mediator to determine when (timing and circumstances) to deploy shuttle mediation. In part 2 of this two-part series, we will now explore The Pitfalls: Although …
MORE

Shuttle Mediation: Some Benefits and Pitfalls (Part 1: The Benefits)

As a mediator, helping parties navigate discussions toward settlement involves creating an adaptive process that supports that agenda. The use of shuttle mediation comes with benefits and some possible pitfalls! It is up to a mediator to determine when (timing and circumstances) to deploy shuttle mediation. In part 1 of this two-part series, we first explore The Benefits: Shuttle mediation …
MORE

Family Dispute Resolution: Process and Practice (2024) Book Review by Hilary Linton

This book review was originally published by SLAW on May 6, 2024.   Family Dispute Resolution: Process and Practice, just published by Oxford University Press, is THE book that family dispute resolution (FDR) practitioners and educators have been waiting for. Edited by Peter Salem and Kelly Browe Olson, this book delivers the goods like no other— all 600+ pages of …
MORE

Navigating Mediation with Cultural Sensitivity – A Black History Month Perspective

As we commemorate Black History Month, let us not only celebrate the vibrant mosaic and diverse narrative of black history. Let’s consider the importance of supporting and fostering inclusivity in all aspects of FDR practice. In the field of mediation, cultural competence is paramount in ensuring a fair and effective process for our clients. By embracing diversity and pursuing knowledge …
MORE