Negotiation is the first, second and final step to any resolution. Whether you hire a lawyer, end up in court or simply discuss your problem over a cup of coffee, you will engage in some form off negotiation. Negotiation is the process of assessing differences and finding ways to bridge the gap to a mutually agreeable solution.
Settlement Smarts
pdf Settlement Smarts for Self-Represented Litigants: How to use Settlement Processes Knowledgeably & Effectively (1.95 MB) from Dr. Julie MacFarlane for the National Self-Represented Litigants Project.
This publication covers:
- Settlement basics
- Settlement conferences
- Mediation
- Negotiation and formal Offers to Settle
- Advice from other Self-Represented Litigants.
Family Law
The area of family law is a specialized area of civil litigation, one that focuses on the rights and obligations of those involved in ‘family” relationship. Typical cases involved the breakup of married or couple law couples but issues can also include adoptions or agreements made in contemplation of intimate relationships.
Settlement conferences in Family Law
Information from nsfamilylaw.ca about Settlement Conferences in the Supreme Court-Family Division or Family Court:https://www.nsfamilylaw.ca/programs-services/settlement-conferences
Court-based Assistance Dispute Resolution (Conciliation) for Family Law
Information from nsfamilylaw.ca about Assisted Dispute Resolution or 'Conciliation' offered at the Supreme Court-Family Division and Family Courts across Nova Scotia: https://www.nsfamilylaw.ca/programs-services/court-based-adr-conciliation
Family Law: Collaborative Law approaches
Collaborative law is a dispute resolution process, facilitated by trained lawyers who assist participants in resolving conflict using cooperative strategies rather than adversarial techniques. Get more information about Collaborative Family Law, including contact information for trained collaborative family law professionals, from Nova Scotia Collaborative Lawyers: collaborativefamilylawyers.ca
Appeals in civil or family law dispute: Judicial Mediation at the NS Court of Appeal
Judicial Mediation at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal - https://courts.ns.ca/courts/court-of-appeal/mediation-program
This program helps litigants avoid costly and time-consuming courtroom hearings. It is voluntary and is available to those who have launched an appeal in a civil or family dispute (not available in criminal appeals).
The idea is to give litigants the opportunity to resolve their differences themselves under the guidance of a Judge. Litigants who cannot afford a lawyer, or who are representing themselves, have access to the services of a lawyer free of charge. Go to courts.ns.ca to find out more about Judicial Mediation at the NS Court of Appeal, including answers to common questions and form to fill out when requesting mediation.
