FAQ

Mediation means conciliation and is an effective method to settle disputes in a sustainable way. In the event of a conflict, a mediator supports the conflicting parties as a neutral third party in finding mutually agreeable solutions. Mediation is concluded when both parties agree equally to the solution reached. It can thus lead to more individual solutions than a court decision and is often more cost-effective than litigation. With mediation, you work out suitable, satisfactory and sustainable solutions with the people who are important to you, whether in the family, at work or in the neighbourhood.

"Ordered mediation in child protection under civil law " is an order to establish, improve or stabilise communication between parents in dispute or in the regulation of care. I conduct mandated mediations on behalf of the child and adult protection authority (KESB) or the court. When and how does "ordered mediation" occur? The adult protection authority (KESB) or the court can issue a directive for an "ordered mediation". In such a situation parents are obliged to participate in mediation. The aim of ordered mediation is to: maintain or re-establish contact between the child or children and both parents after separation and divorce to mediate between the parents and find solutions to increase the ability of separated parents to cooperate with each other to prevent or reduce the consequences for the children of parental difficulties

Ordered mediation can also be conducted as co-mediation. This means that in mediation a professional with a specific background is involved. Co-mediation is recommended for the settlement of "very contentious" and "complex" separations, divorces or parental conflicts regarding visitation and custody. For intercultural couples with different mother tongues, co-mediation can also be supportive. At the end of the mediation, if the outcome is positive, an agreement is reached in which the solution to the points of conflict is recorded. In case of a negative outcome, the mediation is terminated and the referring agency is informed about the termination of the mediation. The further steps/measures after the termination are up to the authority or the court. The aim is for the parents who are living apart to succeed in communicating, agreeing and informing themselves at the parental level so that a situation is created for the children concerned that safeguards the best interests of the children and contributes to their optimal development.