How long does it take to mediate a resolution of issues arising from the breakdown of a relationship?
Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question. How long the process of mediation takes before the issues which are in dispute are resolved depends on many factors, some of which include: • the level of conflict between the parties to the dispute; • the number of issues which need to be resolved; • how frequently the parties can meet; • how quickly the parties can gather information and documentation required for ongoing discussions ; • whether the parties to the dispute feel comfortable being in the same room or whether they need to be in separate rooms with the mediator who will shuttle back and forth between them or meet with them at separate times altogether; • the complexity of the issues in dispute; • the emotional state of each participant; • the availability of lawyers for ongoing advice if it is required or for advice at the end of settlement discussions; • the financial resources of the parties; and • the willingness of the parties to “let go” of the past and move
