Divorce mediation involves parents of a child or children who meet together with a mediator to make arrangements for the future and immediate well-being of the child concerned. The goal is to prepare a settlement or parenting plan.
Divorce mediation is a cost-effective alternative to litigation in which co-operation between parents is fostered so that parents may be able to make decisions regarding their children’s well-being in a positive manner. The outcome of mediation is to design a parenting plan which can be implemented as part of the parents’ commitment to ensure that their children will be raised with love and care. The development of a working relationship between the parents is a vital goal of mediation. Parents are facilitated in the process to make decisions about the children’s living arrangements, health, education, financial obligations, legal matters and discipline. Mediation allows parents to become directly involved in decision-making processes and are not reliant on the legal system (i.e, courts) to make decisions regarding aspects of their children’s lives.
Suitably trained social workers, psychologists or legal professionals can mediate divorce matters. Ensure the person has the relevant additional training and is aware of all legal processes involved as well as the developmental needs of children at different stages and ages. It is important for the mediator to have an in-depth understanding of the emotional impact of divorce on parents and children.
Contact Vicky Downing directly for more information: vicky@guidinghands.co.za
