Mediation
Key Aspects of Mediation
- Voluntary: Discussions and documents used during mediation are generally kept private and cannot typically be used in subsequent legal proceedings if an agreement is not reached.
- Third-Party Neutral: The mediator is an impartial professional trained in dispute resolution. They do not take sides, offer legal advice, or decide who is wrong or right.
- Parties Control the Outcome: Unlike litigation or arbitartion, the people involved in the dispute retain control over the final agreement and its terms.
- Focus on Interests: The process encourages parties to look beyond their stated positions to understand their underlying needs and interests, which can lead to creative and durable solutions.
- Informal and Flexible: Mediation does not follow strict rules of procedure or evidence, allowing for a more relaxed and creative problem-solving environment.
Benefits of Mediation
- Cost and Time Efficiency: Mediation is generally faster and less expensive than going to court.
- Relationship Preservation: The non-adversarial nature of mediation can help maintain or re-establish relationships, which is particularly helpful in workplace, family and business disputes.
- Greater Satisfaction and Compliance: Because the parties craft their own agreement, they are often more satisfied with the outcome and more likely to comply with the terms.
- Flexibility and Creativity: Parties can explore a wider range of solutions that a court might not be able to order.
In essence, mediation provides a structured way for people in conflict to communicate, understand each other’s perspectives, and work to find a mutually acceptable way forward.
Language of Mediation Services
Mediation sessions are conducted in English or French, at the choice of the parties. Interpretation services may be procured, at cost, for parties wishing to conduct mediation in their native language.
Location of Mediation Services
Mediation sessions are held in a suitable location, that is one that reasonably guarantees the confidentiality of the process.
Availability of Mediation Services
The Mediation service is available to communities in Canada.