Langley Family Mediation Lawyers

A family law mediator in BC serves as a neutral, trained professional who helps parties:

• Identify key issues and priorities
• Facilitate productive, respectful communication
• Ensure both parties are heard and understood
• Explore creative and legally sound solutions
• Document agreements clearly and accurately

Mediators cannot give legal advice to either party or impose decisions, but they can refer participants to independent legal counsel when needed.

Understanding how the mediation process works can help you feel more prepared and confident as you begin. In British Columbia, family law mediation follows a structured yet flexible process designed to resolve disputes efficiently, respectfully, and with the best interests of all parties, especially children, at the forefront.

1. Initial Contact and Screening

The process begins with a confidential intake or screening session. Each party meets separately with the mediator to:

• Ensure mediation is appropriate and safe for both parties
• Identify issues to be discussed
• Explain the mediation process and expectations
• Determine whether legal advice or other support is needed
• This step ensures that the mediation is voluntary, informed, and suitable for the individuals involved.

2. Pre-Mediation Preparation

After screening, parties may be asked to submit relevant documents and financial information, such as:

• Income details and recent tax returns
• Lists of assets and liabilities
• Parenting proposals or schedules
• Any court orders or agreements already in place

This helps focus the discussion and reduces time spent gathering information during the sessions.

3. Mediation Sessions

Mediation sessions may take place in person, by video conference, or in a hybrid format. Depending on the complexity of the issues, mediation can occur over a single day or several shorter meetings. During the sessions, the mediator will:

• Guide respectful dialogue on key issues such as parenting, support, and property division
• Ensure both parties have the opportunity to express their needs and concerns
• Help identify areas of agreement and clarify areas of disagreement
• Facilitate problem-solving and explore legally sound settlement options

If needed, separate (or “shuttle”) mediation may be used, where the mediator speaks with each party privately.

4. Reaching Agreement

When an agreement is reached, the mediator will prepare a summary or draft of the terms. You are encouraged to review this document with your lawyer before signing to ensure your rights are protected. Once finalized, the agreement can be:

• Formalized into a legally binding separation agreement
• Incorporated into a consent court order (if applicable)

5. When Mediation Does Not Result in Agreement

If full resolution is not possible, the mediator can help identify next steps. This might include arbitration, parenting coordination, or litigation. In some cases, only certain issues require further legal action, while others may be resolved during mediation.

We assist clients with a range of mediation services related to family law, including:

• Separation and Divorce Mediation – Resolve issues such as spousal support, division of assets, and parenting arrangements.
• Child Custody and Parenting Time Mediation – Develop child-focused parenting plans that prioritize stability and the best interests of your children.
• Property and Debt Division Mediation – Divide family property, pensions, and liabilities fairly and collaboratively.
• Spousal and Child Support Mediation – Reach fair financial support arrangements based on BC guidelines and your circumstances.
• Post-Separation Dispute Mediation – Address modifications to parenting time, support, or agreements as situations evolve.