Why Mediation?
The simple answer to the question of why families should stay out of the litigation process is: court is expensive!
On average, a trial in British Columbia can cost separating families anywhere from $60,000 to $150,000 or more each—depending on the complexity, number of days, number of witnesses, and the lawyer’s hourly rate. This is an amount that most families cannot afford. Arguably this money is better spent on rebuilding their lives, or put towards the needs of the children.
As family law practitioners, we often hear our clients speaking of ‘winning’ or ‘beating’ their former spouse. But does anyone really ‘win’ when litigation costs and financial stress can devastate both sides in the long term? Litigation is a risk and there are no guarantees. Families should be encouraged to pursue options that are most cost efficient, wherever appropriate.
Often, a judge does not have enough court time to understand the nuances of a family law matter. Judges apply the law to facts and evidence. The emotional element has little weight in whether a spouse ‘win’ or ‘lose’ in court. A judge has a finite amount of time and bandwidth to get acquainted with each case.
Not all family law cases or issues are appropriate for mediation. For example, if you urgently need a protection order or non-removal orders, these must be obtained through the court system. But for non-urgent matters, families should consider exploring alternative dispute resolution models—such as mediation.
At Kitsilano Family Law, we are committed to providing families with affordable options outside of court. Under our new ADR initiative, KitsSolutions, we provide separating families with an option of flat rate mediations.
Our flat rate mediation rates (excluding applicable taxes and disbursements) are as follows:
Cléa Amundsen - $4,000
Amber Cheema - $3,000
Flat rate mediations include the following:
a. Pre-mediation calls with each party;
b. Pre-mediation calls with counsel (optional);
c. Review of relevant documents;
d. Full day mediation from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and
e. Drafting Minutes of Settlement or Memorandum of Understanding.
Any additional mediation time after 5 p.m. on the day of the mediation or subsequent dates will be charged at the mediator’s hourly rate.
A flat rate mediation offers separating families an option outside of court that is transparent and cost efficient.
If you are interested in learning more or booking a family law mediation with our mediators at Kitsilano Family Law, please use one of these:
a. Book Online by clicking here.
b. Email us at contact@kitsfamilylaw.com
c. Call the office at 604-731-5676