Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes, the “downs” are the breakdown of an important relationship. It is easy for the conflict to rail out of control and for anger and frustration to build on each other. Sometimes, the court system adds to this atmosphere because it is built on a “win-lose” premise.
Mediation is about both parties winning and coming to an agreement that is fair and equitable to both in a dignified way. Stanley Mayes at Mayes Law and Mediation is a trained and certified mediator. With a background of nearly 40 years practice in Family Law, Estate Law and Corporate Law he provides expert guidance for everyone’s welfare.
You may be wondering what a mediator does. In a nutshell, the Ontario Association For Family Mediation defines it this way:
“A mediator tries to ensure that the participants reach agreement freely, voluntarily, without undue influence, and on the basis of informed consent.”
During a court process, the parties must endlessly repeat their positions. However, in a mediation, the mediator assists the parties to help them define the true issues, identify their interests and search for options to resolve their differences. They have a much higher degree of participation in resolving their conflict.
Mr. Mayes meets with the parties individually before bringing them together to skillfully move them towards agreement. Although it is possible to mediate an agreement without the individual parties having lawyers, we strongly recommend that both parties do retain legal counsel to ensure their best interests are protected throughout the mediation process; at a minimum, each party must have a lawyer review any proposed mediation settlement before it is finalized. Mr. Mayes maintains an unbiased viewpoint during mediation.
Mediation is typically a much faster process than going to court. This means it is usually much less expensive too. Since Mr. Mayes listens to the things that are most important to you, you are more satisfied with the outcome.
If you have already begun a traditional court-oriented process, you may still switch to mediation.
Mediation. It’s a win-win way to resolve conflict and disagreements.