Settlement Meetings: A Collaborative Approach to Family Disputes
At Jones Divorce & Family Law, we understand that legal matters are stressful, and going to court isn’t always the best solution. That’s why we offer settlement meeting services. Settlement meetings are a cost-effective and collaborative approach to resolving family legal issues, allowing both parties to negotiate terms in a controlled and structured setting.
With the guidance of our experienced Calgary family lawyers, you can work toward a fair and practical resolution — without the stress and uncertainty of litigation.
Understanding Settlement Meetings
Managing family legal matters can be challenging. At Jones Divorce & Family Law, we are dedicated to guiding individuals and families through every stage of these complex matters. Whether you need help formalizing a separation agreement, determining parenting arrangements, or organizing your will and estate, our Calgary family lawyers are here for you so you can proceed with confidence and clarity.
HOW SETTLEMENT MEETINGS WORK
Settlement meetings are structured and controlled to simplify the process. With the help of your lawyers, each party will gather necessary financial documents, legal information, and any supporting evidence that may be of assistance. You will then meet to discuss unresolved matters and work toward a fair agreement.
BENEFITS OF SETTLEMENT MEETINGS
Unlike formal court proceedings, settlement meetings encourage open discussion, helping both parties reach a mutually beneficial agreement. The goal is to find common ground in a way that minimizes conflict, emotional strain, and legal expenses.
Settlement meetings offer a cooperative, cost-effective approach to resolving family matters, fostering better outcomes with less conflict and stress.
Why Choose a Settlement Meeting?
Settlement meetings offer a less stressful and more collaborative approach to separations and family legal disputes. As an alternative to drawn-out legal proceedings, they have several advantages to all parties, including:
Cost Savings
Settlement meetings can significantly reduce legal fees compared to lengthy court battles
Quicker Resolution
Avoid months (or years) of court delays by reaching an agreement on your own terms.
Reduced Stress and Conflict
A cooperative approach allows for a more amicable separation, especially when children are involved.
More Control Over the Outcome
Instead of leaving decisions in the hands of a judge, you and your former partner can negotiate solutions that work best for your family.
Flexibility
Settlement meetings provide flexibility to tailor solutions that meet the unique needs of both parties, which may not be possible in a courtroom setting.
Relationship Preservation
By fostering open communication and collaboration, settlement meetings help maintain a more positive relationship between parties.
Confidentiality
Unlike court proceedings, settlement meetings remain private and confidential.
Cost Savings
Settlement meetings can significantly reduce legal fees compared to lengthy court battles
How the Lawyers at Jones Divorce & Family Law Can Help
While it’s possible to attend a settlement meeting without legal representation, having an experienced family lawyer ensures that your rights and interests are protected. The team at Jones Divorce & Family Law will guide you through the process, help you negotiate fair terms, and ensure all agreements comply with Alberta’s legal requirements. If you’re looking for an efficient and amicable way to resolve your divorce or family law dispute, it’s time to call the team at Jones Divorce & Family Law. Our skilled Calgary family lawyers are here to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Find a resolution that works for your family with
Jones Divorce & Family Law
Settlement Meetings: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a separation and a divorce?
In Alberta, a separation occurs when a couple ends a relationship by deciding to live completely separate lives but has not yet filed for divorce. A divorce legally ends the marriage and allows both parties to remarry. Both processes involve addressing issues such as parenting time, decision-making, support, and property division.
How is property divided in a divorce?
The Family Property Act states how property is to be divided in a divorce, should parties be unable to agree. The general default rule is an equal division of all property, subject to exemptions and particular circumstances in which it would not be just and equitable to do so, such as property accumulated while parties were living separate and apart.
How is child support calculated?
Child support is governed by the Federal Child Support Guidelines. The Guidelines provide a method for calculating child support payments, which are mandatory as child support is the right of the child.
In order to determine the amount of child support payable, both parties must exchange financial disclosures. Child support is then calculated based on the parenting regime and their Guideline Income—the total income available to pay support. On the most recent tax return, this information is found on line 15,000, although there are exceptions to the use of total income, including self-employment, non-recurring income and extreme fluctuations of income.
Can we settle our family law issues without going to court?
Yes, engaging with the court system is not required if the parties can reach an agreement on the issues at hand. At Jones Divorce & Family Law, we encourage amicable resolutions through alternative methods, including settlement meetings.
What do I need to consider during a separation in Calgary?
Issues to consider during a separation in Calgary are parenting considerations, including:
- Guardianship
- Decision-making and parenting time
- Support concerns, including child support and spousal support
- Any property and assets that need to be divided, including certain tax considerations for their division
