Mediation’s clear appeal is that it is a non-confrontational process that doesn’t involve the Courts. Yet, those considering mediation in Calgary worry about engaging in it. This worry stems from fear and misunderstanding of its associated costs and not from a lack of faith in the benefits it can provide.
Understanding the cost of mediation in Calgary is crucial to know whether it’s worth the price to pursue it.
What Mediation Offers
What can you expect out of mediation? Firstly, mediation in Calgary is voluntary. Both parties must agree to participate – no one can be forced into it. Once agreed, both parties can expect help from an unbiased third party to help them resolve their dispute.
Typically, all mediation processes are confidential, known legally as “without prejudice” communication. Anything said during mediation stays in the mediation. Nothing will be divulged to anyone other than the parties involved and the mediator (the neutral third party). The mediator starts the process by hearing from both parties, determining their positions and interests, and encouraging them to find compromising or creative solutions.
This approach is meant to guide the two opposing parties to a solution they come up with instead of the mediator imposing one upon them, unlike arbitration.
The Price of Mediation
The price of mediation in Calgary can vary depending on the lawyer or other qualified mediator you hire. It’s prudent to make some calls and research thoroughly to compare rates and online reviews. This way, you can agree on a mediator with the experience and temperament to help you and budget for the process’s costs.
Before you compare rates, however, it would be good to know the average range of costs. Generally, you can expect to pay around $300.00 to $500.00 per hour. Other expenses, like the mediator’s location, might impact the cost upwards or downwards.
Why Choose Mediation?
At first glance, the cost of mediation in Calgary might seem pricey. An ordinary person who has never been involved with the legal system and has no past experience comparing it to others might deem it as such. However, when you stack it up against other ways of settling disputes, mediation is a rather quick and cost-effective option.
For example, if you measured mediation against litigation. The financial costs, time to start to access mediation, and the time to participate are much less. Disputes are resolved more civilly. The outcomes should be a balance of both parties’ positions where everyone leaves with their dignity intact.
Suppose you hope to save on legal costs and obtain a reasonable settlement from family lawyers in Calgary. In that case, you can bet mediation is a viable option to consider to help you move forward in the direction you want to take your life.
There is a brighter future ahead with McLean Legal Family Lawyers. As your dynamic, multi-service family law firm in Calgary, McLean Legal Family Lawyers can offer you personalized legal services tailored to your particular circumstances. We endeavour to resolve matters quickly and with minimal conflict, offering calm, professional, and realistic advice. Given our years of experience in family law, we can assist with your child support, spousal support, divorce, mediation, and separation agreements, as well as civil litigation issues, commercial/corporate services, and real estate transactions. With over 30 years of experience and success, we’re the Calgary family lawyers that offer you a brighter future. Book your free consultation by calling 587-353-2632.