The Mediation program offers “closed” Mediation. This means it is viewed as separate to the judicial process and the content of the Mediation is confidential. This gives the clients space to speak freely without fear that what they say could end up in the court.
The process is voluntary and the parties may withdraw at any time.
The Family Mediation Coordinator is available to help families:
- solve problems before, during or after separation;
- agree on a parenting plan for children;
- improve communication;
- learn new strategies on parenting children through separation/divorce;
- assist with decisions regarding custody and access;
- discuss mobility issues regarding children;
- determine child support;
- provide information on the court process;
- assist in division of personal items; and
- move forward and focus on the future.
Mediation services are available for clients that have an application currently in the court. It is also available for parents that are not involved with lawyers or the court process.
The Mediator meets with each party individually, prior to bringing both clients together, in order to screen and to address any underlying issues of past or present violence.
For additional information, please contact the Mediation Program at 867-975-6364.
Separation and Children
Custody and Access:
When you separate or divorce, you must arrange for the care of your children. This includes where they will live and how important decisions about them will be made. Custody is decision making regarding education, religion and medical issues.
Child Support:
Both parents have a responsibility to financially support their children. If you do not have custody, the amount of child support you must pay is based on your income and the number of children you must support.
Child Support Guideline Tables:
http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/fl-df/child-enfant/fcsg-lfpae/2017/index.html
Additional Resources
Websites for parents:
- http://albertacourts.ab.ca/familylaw/ - Includes a working guide titled “Critical Issues for Consideration when Developing Practical Parenting Plans for Families in Conflict” (Alberta Family Justice Services).
- http://justice.gc.ca/eng/fl-df/parent/kh-ae.html - Information for parents on how your child may be feeling and how your child is coping.
- http://ourfamilywizard.com - Software program that assists separated parents to manage communication, parenting schedules and children’s activities.
Websites for children:
- http://familieschange.ca/kids/index.htm - Contains a kids guide to separation and divorce including information about family law and the emotional issues that children may face (British Columbia government).
- http://familieschange.ca/teen/index.htm - Site for teens with information about emotions and strategies, as well as additional resources (British Columbia government)
- http://kidsinthemiddle.org - Kids page includes a book list and children’s bill of rights.
- http://pbskids.org/itsmylife/family/divorce/index.html – Information for kids about separation and divorce including a `dealing with divorce’ quiz.