Offices in Toronto and Oakville · Serving families across Ontario info@kalrafamilylaw.com 416-649-1339

Practice area · Toronto & Oakville

Family & Divorce Mediation


What is family law or divorce mediation?

Family law mediation is a collaborative and confidential process that helps people resolve disputes related to divorce, child custody, support and other family matters. A neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties. The goal is to reach agreements both sides can accept, so families can make important decisions without going to court, usually more efficiently and with less conflict than litigation.

How we work with you


A structured, proven process with open lines of communication from the first call to the final agreement.

  1. Free 15-minute call

    Tell us what's happening by phone or video, and find out how we can help.

  2. Initial consult

    A 60-minute meeting to go through the key facts, set your objectives and build a strategy.

  3. Case work

    We carry out the plan, drafting and negotiating, with regular updates as we go.

  4. Resolution

    A legally binding agreement or order, and a clear picture of life after settlement.

SK Portrait of Shelly Kalra

Our mediator

Shelly Kalra


As our managing partner and a family law mediator, Shelly Kalra brings over 15 years of experience as a family lawyer to her role. She combines creative, strategic thinking with a deep understanding of family law to present fair, sustainable solutions that meet the needs of everyone involved. Having spent years helping families through divorce, she understands the emotional challenges both sides experience.

Shelly is known for a practical approach to reaching resolutions, balancing each party's needs while minimizing costs for the family. Her mediation work covers parenting arrangements, financial matters, property division, child and spousal support, and any other family law concern. She believes mediation is often the best way for families to resolve disputes: it gives couples more control over their case, and agreements tailored to a family's circumstances are more likely to be upheld.

Mediation rate: $500 per hour

Family Mediation: frequently asked questions


What is family law mediation?

Family law mediation is a voluntary, confidential process that helps individuals in family disputes, such as divorce, child custody, and asset division, to reach mutually acceptable agreements with the assistance of a trained neutral mediator.

How does mediation differ from litigation in family law cases?

Mediation promotes cooperation and communication, allowing parties to make their own decisions collaboratively, while litigation involves a court process where a judge makes the final decisions, which can be adversarial and costly.

Is mediation the right choice for my family situation?

Mediation is often a suitable option if you prefer more control over the resolution process, want to maintain privacy, and are open to working with your ex-spouse to find mutually beneficial solutions. It's advisable to consult with a mediator or lawyer to determine if it's the best fit for your case.

How long does family law mediation typically take?

The duration of mediation varies based on the complexity of the issues involved and the willingness of both parties to cooperate. Some cases can be resolved in a few sessions, while others may take several months.

What are the costs associated with family law mediation?

Mediation is generally more cost-effective than litigation. Mediation fees are typically shared between the parties involved, making it a more affordable option than court-related expenses.

Is mediation legally binding?

The agreements reached in mediation are legally binding when they are formalized in a legally recognized document and filed with the court. This ensures that both parties are legally obligated to adhere to the terms of the agreement.

What if my ex-spouse and I can't agree on everything in mediation?

It's common for parties to have disagreements during mediation. In such cases, the mediator can help you focus on areas of agreement and assist in finding creative solutions to resolve any outstanding issues. If necessary, unresolved matters can be addressed in court.

Move on to the next stage in your life.

Book a free 15-minute consultation by phone or video with one of our family lawyers.

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