Divorce mediation is a practical and effective way for separating couples in Calgary to resolve disputes without going to court. At Jennings Family Law, we help clients use mediation to reach clear, legally sound agreements on property division, spousal support, child custody, and other key family law matters.
In Alberta, there are generally four ways to settle the terms of your divorce:
While divorce is often portrayed as a combative process, it doesn’t have to be. Mediation offers a respectful, cost-effective, and private path forward allowing both parties to maintain control and move on with their lives.
Divorce mediation is a process by which a professional and independent mediator guides a couple towards a separation agreement.
Even couples who seem far apart in their expectations can, with the help of a skilled mediator, come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Unlike litigation, there is no winner and loser. The aim of the process is for both partners to achieve positives from the outcome facilitated by the mediator.
The disputed areas are usually the following:
Although you may not hear about divorce mediation as much as litigation or collaboration between opposing lawyers, mediation is a preferred way to settle divorces by many judges and lawyers, as well as the couples themselves.
Canadian law even states that lawyers must inform their clients about the option of divorce mediation to avoid unnecessary litigation.
Divorce mediation offers a cooperative, cost-effective alternative to the courtroom. For many couples in Calgary, it’s a more respectful and efficient way to resolve separation issues, especially when children are involved.
Mediation focuses on solutions, not conflict. Instead of letting a judge decide important matters like parenting or property division, you and your spouse retain control over the outcome. With the help of a trained mediator, you can work through disagreements in a structured yet flexible setting that encourages open dialogue.
Key benefits of mediation compared to traditional litigation include:
It’s also worth noting that when your mediator is a trained family lawyer, they can help ensure the agreement complies with Alberta law and assist with filing your divorce paperwork properly.
While not ideal for every situation, especially where abuse, manipulation, or extreme conflict exists, divorce mediation is an excellent option for many separating couples in Calgary who want a smoother, more affordable, and dignified path forward.
Divorce mediation in Alberta typically varies in duration, depending on the complexity of the issues and the parties’ willingness to cooperate. On average, mediation can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The mediator facilitates discussions between the spouses to reach agreements on matters like property division, child custody, and support.
The focus on open communication and collaboration often helps expedite the process. However, the timeline is unique to each case. Consulting an experienced mediator or family lawyer can provide a clearer estimate of the timeframe for your specific situation.
Yes, mediation can address child custody and support issues in Alberta. During divorce mediation, parents work with a trained mediator to reach agreements on child custody arrangements and child support payments. The mediator facilitates constructive discussions, helping parents consider the best interests of the child.
By working collaboratively, parties can create a customized parenting plan that addresses custody, visitation schedules, and decision-making responsibilities. Additionally, they can agree on fair and sustainable child support arrangements.
Mediation provides a more flexible and less adversarial approach, empowering parents to make decisions that work best for their family’s unique needs. However, consulting with a family lawyer or mediator is crucial to ensure compliance with Alberta’s laws and to protect the child’s best interests.
At Jennings Family Law, our divorce mediation process follows a clear, structured five-step approach to help couples in Calgary resolve their separation issues efficiently and respectfully. Each stage is designed to reduce conflict, promote collaboration, and guide you toward a legally sound agreement.
Here’s what to expect:
Your mediation begins with an introduction to the mediator and an overview of the process. Clear ground rules are established to ensure respectful communication, confidentiality, and a comfortable environment for both spouses.
If the mediator has received background information in advance, they may summarize the key issues to help clarify the goals of the mediation.
Each spouse is given an opportunity to share their perspective on the situation without interruption. This structured approach ensures both voices are heard and sets the stage for cooperative problem-solving.
The mediator will request all relevant documents and facts needed to understand the disputed matters—such as finances, parenting concerns, or property. Questions may be asked to clarify positions and motivations so that solutions can be grounded in reality.
With a full understanding of the facts, the mediator will help pinpoint the central points of disagreement. This step focuses the discussion on resolving what truly matters, rather than getting lost in surface-level conflict.
This is where resolution begins. The mediator facilitates brainstorming and proposes practical solutions to help bridge gaps between you and your spouse. Through guided discussion, adjustments, and compromise, the goal is to create a mutually acceptable agreement that can be finalized and submitted to the court.
This five-step mediation process gives Calgary couples a flexible, respectful alternative to litigation and one that prioritizes your control, privacy, and long-term peace of mind.
The cost of your divorce mediation will depend on:
The costs are usually divided between you and your spouse, depending on the ability to pay.
Either way, divorce mediation is usually considerably less expensive than litigation.
While divorce mediation is highly effective for many couples in Calgary, it may not always resolve every issue. If you are unable to reach a full agreement through mediation, there are still several legal options available in Alberta.
If none of these alternative resolution methods are successful, your case may proceed to litigation. This means a judge in the Alberta family court system will decide on important issues such as parenting arrangements, division of property, and financial support.
In any scenario, it is essential to get legal guidance. At Jennings Family Law, we will help you understand your rights and determine the most effective way to move forward based on your unique circumstances.
Jennings Family Law’s initial consultation will help you decide if divorce mediation is suitable for your case.
Start the process by booking your consultation by calling (403) 316-0138 or email warren@jenningsfamilylaw.com.
