Services:
Mediation
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where people resolve their differences out of court. The role of the mediator is to facilitate constructive communication aimed at resolving all issues amicably and with respect. The mediator is not like a judge or an arbitrator who makes the decision for the parties. Rather, the mediator assists, supports and guides the parties through direct negotiations.
Mediation usually occurs at the mediator's office and involves anywhere from one to ten or more mediation sessions, depending upon the complexity and number of the issues. Mediation is a relatively inexpensive way to negotiate since all the parties share the hourly rate of the mediator. In some circumstances, their lawyers are present during mediation where the parties feel the need for the lawyer's support and input during the mediation process.
Karen will assist you in finding a mutually beneficial solution to the issues facing you, such as support, custody, access and property division.
Arbitration
If mediation fails, or the parties have reached an impasse, they may choose arbitration to settle their matter. Arbitration is a process where parties choose a neutral arbitrator who makes decisions for them. The arbitrator is given virtually identical powers to those possessed by Judges. In effect, the arbitrator's decision, or Award, takes the place of a court order and may be enforced in the same manner as a court order.
The arbitrator is a person chosen by both parties and the parties choose how formal or informal the decision making process will be.
Karen is a trained Arbitrator who will help you and your counsel design an arbitration process suited to your needs. Arbitrations are scheduled according to the needs of the parties.
Collaborative Practice
Collaborative Practice is a reasonable approach to divorce based on three principles:
- A pledge not to go to court
- An honest exchange of information by both spouses
- A solution that takes into account the highest priorities of both spouses and their children.
Collaborative Practice is a non-adversarial approach: you and your lawyers will negotiate in good faith, and work together to achieve mutual settlement outside the courts. Collaborative Practice eases the emotional strains of a breakup, and protects the well-being of children and everyone involved.
The guiding principle of Collaborative Practice is respect. This respectful tone encourages you to show compassion, understanding, and cooperation in both communication and negotiation.
A Collaborative team is the combination of professionals that you choose to work with to resolve your dispute. It can be you and your Collaborative lawyers. In addition to your Collaborative lawyers, you can choose to include a neutral financial professional, divorce coaches, a child specialist or other specialists you and your spouse believe would be helpful. All meetings are intended to produce an honest exchange of information and clear understanding about needs and expectations, especially concerning the well-being of children. Mutual problem-solving by all parties leads to the final divorce agreement.
Karen is a collaboratively trained lawyer who acts as a legal advisor and negotiation coach for one party in the collaborative process.
Link to Collaborative Websites:
Conventional Representation: Negotiation and Litigation
Should you chose to retain Karen Thompson Law as your family law advocate, we will remain focused on resolving your dispute through fair negotiations with all parties involved. Unfortunately, the other side is not always interested in settling and the matter will have to be resolved in court. We have extensive experience in Litigation in the areas of:
- Custody
- Access
- Child Support
- Spousal Support
- Division of Family Property
When you need someone to advocate on your behalf, Susan, Lisa and Karen are compassionate, effective and efficient lawyers to have on your side.
Marriage and Cohabitation Agreements
Protecting your interests at the time of marriage or cohabitation is always a good idea. Lisa will assist you in negotiating and preparing a contract that will address your needs and stand the test of time.
Community Involvement
Karen Thompson Law is dedicated to a number of charitable and social events annually, including International Women's Day in support of SAVIS sexual assault services of Halton, Canadians in Support of Afghan Women (CSAW), and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton.