What is Mediation?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method that offers a “win-win” solution, where parties get to be heard and understood, and together reach an agreement tailored for them without having to spend lots of time, money and effort by going through litigation.
Mediation is a procedure in which parties can discuss their disputes with the assistance of a trained impartial third person who assists them in reaching an agreement.
It is a completely voluntary process and parties can decide at any stage to stop the mediation and go the legal route.
A mediator has no power to render a resolution to the conflict, it is in fact the parties that will fashion a solution as the mediator takes the two parties through the process.
Family & Divorce Mediation
AE Mediation specializes in family mediation which allows separating and divorcing couples to take ownership of the process and control over the challenging road ahead. This is particularly beneficial when there are children involved and where parents will be required to co-parent in the years ahead.
Types of issues addressed:
Division of Assets
Parenting Plans
Maintenance
Care & Contact of Minor Children
Parental Rights & Responsibilities
Benefits of Mediation
1. Affordability
Mediation is more cost effective and considerably cheaper than litigation (the process of taking legal action).
2. Timely Resolution
Mediation offers quick resolution of disputes, whereas it can take years to settle a divorce through the court.
3. Active Participation
Mediation allows the parties to discuss the issues at hand and evaluate all possible options. Allowing them to speak freely and making sure their voice is heard and needs are met.
4. Preservation of Relationships
Mediation is less antagonistic in nature compared to litigation – it aims to provide a “win-win” solution for both parties in a dispute.
5. Flexible Process
Mediation has a flexible process that allows for personal touches that are most suitable to the parties and avoids technicalities that could get in the way of reaching a solution.
6. Privacy & Confidentiality
Mediation is a strictly confidential process, taking place in the safety of a private office (or via zoom) rather than matters discussed in open court.
Why AE Mediation
At the heart of our mediation business, we care about people. We understand this is a very difficult and delicate season to navigate and we want to help. Our passion is to create a safe environment where both parties are heard and understood. We believe that together we can find the best outcomes for all people involved. Our motto is “skilful at hand and gentle at heart” – we bring both the skill required and the heart that is necessary to create a holistic approach in these trying times. Our hope is to bring peace to the table. The AE mediation process is impartial, understandable and helpful to all involved. As we come alongside you in this journey, we commit to making the process as clear and easy as possible.
Antonia Edmonds
I’m an accredited mediator with a law degree as well as years of experience in counselling as a church pastor. I have worked in areas that involve both teenagers and children and have seen the effects of divorce on families.
As a mom of three, my passion is to see families thrive no matter the circumstances. My heart is that I would be able to make parties feel at ease despite the unknown journey ahead. I want to create an environment where both parties feel heard and rest assured that their opinions are accounted for.
Steps Of Mediation
Understanding the process
Hearing both parties
Problem determination
Information gathering
Exploring options & alternatives
Clarification & written agreement
What to Expect
- The mediation process takes between 4 and 6 weeks.
- Weekly sessions are 2 hours in length.
- The cost is split 50/50 between the parties unless otherwise agreed upon.
- We offer both midweek and weekend appointments.
- To enquire about fees or any other information please send us an email below.