Divorce is never easy –

Divorce is scary and filled with uncertainty. No one expects to go through a divorce, but when you’re faced with it, taking the next step of how to get through the process is crucial.

As of January 2026, the courts in Alberta mandate that those who are faced with  divorce, utilize mediation/a dispute resolution service first before litigation. The courts are no longer the default and neither is litigation.

This means mediating the terms of your divorce agreement that includes; the financial division of property, a detailed parenting plan, and  finalizing child support and spousal support.

A mediator is a neutral third party that does not advocate for either Party but instead works for both Parties. Litigators are trained in an adversarial model of winning for their client, only looking out for ‘their’ client’s interest. Since this new mandate was introduced this year, the traditional model, the adversarial model, is forced to change. A lawyer who is now acting as a mediator can no longer provide legal advice to 1 Party, nor can that lawyer provide either person with Independent Legal Advice.

Ask these questions when choosing a mediator for divorce –

Has the professional you’re working with ALWAYS been a neutral third Party Mediator, what are the costs associated to the process, what are the expected steps, and how long does the process take. Choose the process and the professional that aligns the kind of outcome you’re seeking.

Call Linda at Calgary Divorce Solutions to book a free consultation and to get some of these questions answered before choosing the process best suited for you.