WWW HKIAC

MEDIATION

Family Mediation

Family Mediation is a problem-solving process designed to help separating / divorcing couples reach their own mutually acceptable agreements regarding the ongoing arrangements for their children and/or the resolution of financial matters. It is a process in which a trained, impartial third person, the mediator, can assist both parties to communicate and negotiate issues in dispute in a confidential setting.

After each party has had an initial individual interview, the couple meets together with one or two mediators for several sessions. All sessions are confidential and not legally binding.

The mediator will help the couple to identify and clarify their needs, concerns and issues. The mediator will also help couples expand their options in order to achieve a mutually acceptable agreement.

Each party is recommended to seek independent legal and/or financial advice throughout the mediation process. At the conclusion of mediation, a written agreement is prepared stating all decisions and agreements made by the couple.

Mediators do not make decisions for couples, nor do they provide legal or counselling services.

  • Saves money - if parties can resolve their dispute through mediation, they will save the substantial legal fees involved in litigation.
  • Saves time - mediation can be organised and conducted promptly and with some flexibility compared with the constraints of the court system. This allows the parties and their children, if any, to move forward with their lives more quickly.
  • Maintains control - the opportunity exists for the parties to make important decisions affecting their family's future rather than losing control to the legal process.
  • Permits unique solutions - agreements reached can be tailor-made to meet the needs of the parties' particular circumstances.
  • Promotes cooperation and avoids emotional diversion - mediation improves communication and gives the parties more effective ways of resolving future differences.

Mediation can be helpful before or after a couple separate and before or after commencement of any legal proceedings. A preliminary interview with the mediator will help to assess whether it is a suitable course of action.

Family mediators come from a variety of backgrounds including the law, counselling, social work, psychology and psychiatry. Family mediators registered with the HKIAC have undertaken professional training and have been approved to be on their panel of accredited mediators. They are required to adhere to the Centre's Code of Practice for family mediators.

If you think mediation can benefit your situation, or if you wish to refer someone for mediation, please contact HKIAC, phone 2525 2381. To get a list of the accredited family mediators, please visit this link.