A Peaceful UNCOUPLING Resolution Is Possible
Choose a simpler solution to separation with the help of Thomlison Mediation. Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution is a collaborative approach to the separation process that allows couples to craft the terms of their own agreement. Our approach promotes the resolution of family situations quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively.Thomlison Mediation provides comprehensive family mediation services. We assist with all aspects of separation including parenting plans, child support, spousal support and division of property. We can also help you make amendments to existing arrangements or to address new issues that have arisen.is Mediation right for you?
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Faster resolution
for those who are seeking a faster alternative to traditional litigation.
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stay in control
The process is collaborative and the outcome is entirely up to separating spouses to reach an agreement together.
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lower legal fees
Family Mediation is significantly less expensive than litigation in court.
choose mediation over litigation
Traditional litigation can be time-consuming, emotionally and financially draining. Family Mediation is a lower stress alternative for families. It allows separating spouses to decide the outcomes of their separation agreement. Mediation is proven to lead to stronger, longer lasting agreements. If you or your separating spouse are unsure if Mediation is for you, book a 30 minute discovery call, together or separately.our mediation process
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In order for mediation to be successful, both separating spouses must be willing to cooperate in order to reach an agreement. The process will require parties to have open communication and reach compromises.
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Once the decision to Mediate has been made, you will be sent:
A Mediation Retainer Agreement for retaining Thomlison Mediation services.
An Intake Questionnaire to help your mediator understand your relationship history, parenting and financial goals
The typical retainer is $3000 for 10 hours and shared equally by both parties ($1500 each). Although retainer amounts may change depending on circumstances.
A signed Mediation Retainer Agreement and the retainer deposit are required to begin the process.
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The initial meeting takes approximately 1 hour in length with each party separately.
This is your opportunity to to help your mediator understand your unique family dynamic and explain what topics are important to you. You will be given more information about the mediation process and ask questions.
After both parties complete their individual meeting, the mediator will create your unique mediation plan. This is the plan that establishes an agenda for which topics will be addressed in mediation and in what order.
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Your first session will be booked after the mediation plan is in place and your financial questionnaires have been completed. Joint sessions take place virtually and take around 3 hours.
At this stage of the process we will be focusing on key aspects of your unique family dynamic. Decisions may or may not be made at this session Depending on your individual circumstances, resolutions may or may not be made during this session.
The Mediator will provide parties with an updated mediation plan within 2 business days of their session.
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Joint sessions will be repeated as many times as necessary to reach an agreement. The initial 8 hrs are typically covered by the initial retainer. You will be asked to replenish the retainer based on an evaluation of where we are in the mediation process and how close you are to completion.
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When resolutions are reached for all items on the mediation plan, a draft Memorandum of Agreement will be provided to you. You will also receive property and support calculations and copies of the financial disclosure shared. This draft can be taken to your lawyer for ILA.
what you need to know…
While Family Mediators have a firm understanding of the legal system, they do not act in the capacity of a lawyer. A mediator is a neutral third party who provides legal information and facilitates discussions but does not provide legal advice to either party.Once mediation is complete, the parties will be provided with a Draft Mediated Separation Agreement that you will take to your own lawyers for Independent Legal Advice.All mediations conducted by Thomlison Mediation are closed mediations. Meaning, the mediator cannot be called upon to provide testimony in court, nor can any documents produced by the mediator be used in litigation. Independent Legal Advice is an integral part of the Mediation Process. ILA is technically optional but Thomlison Mediation strongly encourages mediation clients to seek ILA from a collaboratively trained family lawyer.