Answers before you reach out.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral mediator helps people in a dispute have a productive conversation about the issues, consider their options, and work toward an agreement. Unlike court, the mediator does not decide who is right or impose an outcome. The participants remain responsible for deciding whether they reach an agreement and what that agreement will be.

People choose mediation for different reasons. It gives participants an opportunity to address the issues directly, consider options, and work toward an agreement rather than having the outcome imposed by a court or other decision-maker. Mediation can also provide greater flexibility in how the issues are discussed and resolved.

Mediation itself does not impose a legally binding outcome. If the participants reach an agreement, the terms can be documented in a Memorandum of Understanding. The MOU records what the participants have agreed to; it is not a decision imposed by the mediator. Participants may choose to have the agreement reviewed by independent legal counsel.

No, a lawyer is not required to participate in mediation. However, participants may wish to obtain independent legal advice before signing an agreement, particularly where legal rights or obligations are involved.

Meridian mediates family and separation matters, estate and elder disputes, workplace conflict, business and commercial disagreements, and neighbour or community disputes.

Mediation is generally conducted with the people directly involved in the dispute. Participants may choose to obtain legal advice or involve other appropriate professionals outside the mediation process. Whether someone else should participate in a session depends on the circumstances and should be discussed during preparation.

Mediation is voluntary, so the other party must agree to participate before mediation can begin. If they have not agreed, Meridian can, for a separate fee, contact the other party to explain how mediation works and answer questions about the process. The decision to participate remains theirs.

Yes. Participants do not need to be communicating directly before mediation begins. The mediator can help establish a process for discussing the issues and can determine whether participants meet together, separately, or use a combination of both.

Saskatchewan requires most family-law matters that proceed to family court to attempt an approved family dispute-resolution process before continuing with court proceedings, subject to certain exemptions.

Meridian's mediators are not currently listed on Saskatchewan's Early Family Dispute Resolution Service Provider Registry. The Government of Saskatchewan maintains a registry of recognized service providers for this purpose.

The consultation is a 30-minute conversation by phone or video. It provides an opportunity to discuss your situation, ask questions, understand how mediation works, and assess whether mediation is appropriate. There is no obligation to proceed and no fee for the consultation.

Before mediation, consider what matters to you, what issues need to be addressed, and what options you may be willing to consider. Gather any relevant documents or information beforehand. Meridian will provide guidance on what to expect and how to prepare for the first session.

Virtual mediation is conducted by videoconference. Participants will need a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. The process is similar to an in-person session and can be useful when participants are in different locations or cannot easily attend in person.

Email is Meridian's primary method for scheduling and written communication. Text may also be used when appropriate. Consultations can take place by phone or video, and mediation sessions can be held virtually or in person.

The length of mediation depends on the issues involved and how many sessions are needed. Some matters may be addressed in a single session, while others require several. There is no fixed timeline.

Mediation is $150 CAD per hour, plus applicable taxes. Unless otherwise agreed, the participant who initiates the mediation is responsible for payment. Payment is due within 24 hours of each session by e-transfer or cheque.

At least 48 hours' notice is required to cancel or reschedule a mediation session. Late cancellations and no-shows are billed at the full session rate.

If no agreement is reached, the mediation ends without requiring either participant to accept terms they do not agree with. Participants remain free to consider other options.