MEDIATION

Mediation is a process where people appoint a third party to help them resolve disputes between themselves for example in Divorce Proceedings: Mediation is not court hearing. The mediator is not a judge. Mediation is not counselling or therapy.

Mediation is an inexpensive alternatives to litigation, quicker and less traumatic.

Mediation is always voluntary for the parties and they can at any time leave the negotiations.

Mediator is neutral and impartial.

Confidentiality is respected.

Mediator does not offer any legal advice.

THE MAIN FUNCTION IS TO FACILITATE

It is dealt with by an independent expert. The expert will also draft a Parenting plan, which will be incorporated in a Settlement Agreement between the parties.

The Mediation includes disputes relating to all personal relationships between parties, including with reference to:

• a Marriage (civil and/or religious)
• a Customary Union
• a Partnership Agreement governing a personal relationship
• Parties cohabiting

BENEFITS

It is voluntary.

Joint decisions are made on issues relating to the children involved.

Expensive litigation is avoided.

The emotional stress of divorce is minimised.

Conflict is reduced by parties working together.

THE MEDIATION PROCESS

The mediation process takes between 3 to 5 sessions of 60 minutes each.

At the end of the mediation process the expert will provide the parties with a Parenting plan. This document details all the points of the agreement reached during the mediation process.

Parenting Plans are drafted where there are minor children involved. In the case of divorce this is a annexure to the Settlement Agreement.

PRINCIPAL MEDIATOR

Tania Loots

Qualifications

BA (Psych) – University of South Africa

LLB (current) – University of South Africa

Mediation & ADR – Mediation Academy

Registered at ADR International and Department of Justice as a mediator.