Benefits of Mediation on Child Custody issues

• mediation process
• parenting plan
• child support

It is compulsory for divorcing couples with children below 14 to attend Child Focused Resolution Centre (CFRC) mediation sessions. CFRC sessions usually take place in the period between the filing of divorce papers and the first divorce hearing, and are mediated by trained judges-mediators and family counsellors.

These sessions revolve around the need for both parents to develop meaningful relationships with their children. With reference to the proposed parenting plan, the mediator will help divorcing parties address the issues of custody and access, and negotiate the dynamics of co-parenting after divorce.

At this stage, there need not be an agreement on ancillary (financial) issues but it makes sense for separating couples with children to try to reach terms and financial settlement, hence couples are encouraged to reach a global settlement with the aid of their respective divorce lawyer. It is also preferable for divorcing parties to come to an agreement regarding child support issues during these sessions.

The divorce mediation process will lessen the impact of the divorce on children and avoid the lengthy and draining litigation process. It is hoped that this process will help divorcing parties to focus on the best interests and welfare of their children when making decisions on parenting and care arrangements.

For divorcing parties with with children between the ages of 14 and 21, they would need to attend mediation at the Family Court to address children and other ancillary (financial) issues instead.

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