Sometimes families going through the transition of separation and divorce are able to work out an agreement that divides family property and makes parenting and support arrangements. However, many families need someone to help them come to an agreement.
Family mediation is a process in which a family mediator helps parties work through and resolve family issues. The mediator assists the parties through a process that focuses on finding a solution that best meets their needs.
The family mediator's role is to help parties communicate with each other better. The mediator will not take sides or make decisions for the parties. During mediation, the mediator will work with parties to define the issues, clarify concerns, develop, understand and evaluate solutions and then reach practical and mutually beneficial agreements.
This approach is generally less time-consuming, less stressful and less expensive than going to court. Working towards an agreement can improve parents' communication and problem solving skills. It helps to establish an effective co-parenting relationship, resulting in better outcomes for children and families.
If you would like to find a family mediator, a contact list is available. (If you experience problems opening this document, please download or open with Internet Explorer.)
Exclusively in Prince Albert (effective January 1, 2020), and Regina (effective March 1, 2021) until further notice – most family law matters that come to family court will be required to attempt a family dispute resolution process before they will be able to continue with any further court proceedings.
Information for Professionals Interested in Becoming a Recognized Family Mediator
If you are interested in being recognized as a family mediator that can provide family mediation under Section 44.01 of The Queen's Bench Act, 1998, please print, sign and submit a completed copy of this application form. (If you experience problems opening this form, please download or open with Internet Explorer.)
Please note: although now in force, The Queen's Bench Act is still in the process of being updated to include section 44.01. However, you may find the contents of this section on page 18 of the Miscellaneous Statutes (Family Dispute Resolution) Amendment Act, 2017.
As set out in The Queen's Bench (Family Dispute Resolution) Amendment Regulations, 2019, to be recognized as a family mediator, you must be a member in good standing of one of the following organizations:
- Law Society of Saskatchewan
- Family Mediation Canada
- ADR Institute of Saskatchewan Inc.
In addition, you will have:
- 2 years of experience in family-related practice;
- 80 hours of mediation theory and skills training, including:
- 21 hours of family dynamics in separation and divorce;
- 7 hours on financial issues related to separation and divorce;
- 7 hours on ethical issues relating to the mediation process;
- 7 hours on drafting meeting summaries or memoranda of understanding;
- 14 hours of family violence training, including training in identifying, assessing and managing family violence and power dynamics in relation to family dispute resolution;
- 21 hours of family law training if you are not a lawyer.
If you are approved to be a family mediator under this legislation, you will be required to:
- complete 6 hours yearly of professional development applicable to family dispute resolution; and
- maintain professional liability insurance that provides coverage for practicing as a family mediator.