Settlements - Arbitration and Mediation

Family law arbitration in BC is a way to resolve disputes related to family law issues, such as divorce, child custody, support, and property division, without going to court. It involves a neutral third-party arbitrator who listens to both sides of the dispute and makes a binding decision.

Arbitration is considered less formal than traditional litigation, as it may have fewer rules and procedures, and can be conducted in a more relaxed setting. This can make the process quicker and more cost-effective. However, it's important to keep in mind that the decision of the arbitrator is final and binding, and may not be appealable.

Before deciding to use arbitration in a family law case, it's important to carefully consider the specific circumstances and determine if it's the right option for you. Speaking with a lawyer or an arbitrator can provide more information on the process and potential costs.

Family law mediation in BC is a way to resolve disputes related to family law issues, like divorce, child custody, support, and property division, without going to court. It's a process where a neutral third-party mediator helps both sides come to an agreement that works for everyone.

Mediation is considered a more relaxed and informal alternative to traditional litigation, as there are fewer rules and procedures, and the focus is on finding a solution that works for everyone rather than winning a case. This can make the process quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective.

In mediation, the mediator doesn't make a final decision like a judge would. Instead, they help both sides communicate and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. If an agreement is reached, it can be written up as a binding agreement and enforced in court.

If you're in a family law dispute and want to consider mediation, it's a good idea to speak with a mediator or a lawyer to learn more about the process and see if it's a good fit for your situation.

Arbitration and mediation are both forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in family law cases, but they differ in their approach to resolving disputes.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third-party mediator helps the parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution to their dispute. The mediator does not have the authority to make a binding decision, but instead facilitates negotiations and helps the parties find a mutually agreeable solution.

Arbitration, on the other hand, is a process in which an arbitrator makes a binding decision after hearing from both sides. The arbitrator acts as a judge and has the authority to make a binding decision that is enforceable in court.

Both arbitration and mediation can be quicker and less expensive than going to court, but the key difference is that mediation is non-binding, while arbitration results in a binding decision. The choice of whether to use arbitration or mediation will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of each case.

The cost of family law arbitration in British Columbia can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the case, the experience and reputation of the arbitrator, and the number of sessions required. On average, an arbitrator may charge anywhere from $400 to $800 per hour for their services. Additionally, there may be costs for administrative fees, preparation of the award or decision, and other expenses.

While this may sound very expensive, it's often much cheaper and less stressful  than litigating in court.

Before proceeding with arbitration, it's recommended to discuss the cost and other details of the process with a lawyer to make sure it's a feasible option for your situation.

The cost of a family law mediator in BC can vary, but generally they charge somewhere between $500 to $1,000 per hour. Some mediators may have a flat fee instead of charging by the hour. There may also be other costs like administrative fees, the cost of writing up an agreement, etc.

With mediation, you get what you pay for. The most expensive mediators are often the best at resolving your case, saving you money in the long run, while allowing you to get on with your life in a shorter amount of time.