Joint news release with the Government of Canada and Yukon Family Mediation Service
An alternative to court that helps parents resolve child-related matters recently started in Whitehorse. Funded by $299,000 from the Government of Canada’s Canadian Family Justice Fund, the Yukon Family Mediation Service continues until March 31, 2020.
Pat Bragg, an experienced counsellor and mediator, is the initial staff member. The Yukon Family Mediation Service, on the first floor of the Law Centre building, will work closely with the nearby Family Law Information Centre (FLIC).
Ms. Bragg will meet with parents who are willing to work together to make decisions about parenting arrangements and the ongoing needs of children after separation or divorce. Often, parents can also reach agreement on simple, outstanding financial issues. The resulting document can be formalized by court order or a signed legal separation agreements. If only one of the parents is willing to attend, or if they do not want to meet together, Ms. Bragg can provide brief coaching during the separation process.
Going to court can be stressful, time consuming and expensive. As a part of the Government of Canada’s new measures to modernize the family justice system, we recognize the importance of resolving family law matters out of court, where appropriate. I am proud that our government is supporting families in the Yukon through this pilot project that offers family mediation and improves access to family justice.
The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, P.C. Q.C., M.P., Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
This family focused program supports Yukoners with children going through a divorce or separation and gives them an opportunity to resolve disputes outside of court. I believe strongly in this program, and am proud to see this come out of our Access to Justice Committee.
The Honourable Tracy-Anne McPhee, Minister of Justice
Court is very expensive for parents who may already be stretched financially. Mediation can provide a no-cost, low-stress alternative to court for parents willing to work together for the good of the family.
Pat Bragg, Yukon Family Mediation Service
Funding for the project came from the Canada Family Justice Fund-Projects, which supports the development, implementation and evaluation of provincial and territorial innovative family justice services and programs.
Family mediation is one of several recent initiatives involving the Yukon Department of Justice. Others in 2018 alone include a boost in support for Yukon Legal Aid; permanent funding for the Community Wellness Court; a new digital land title registry; and a new Gladue report writing pilot project.
The family mediation pilot project, which includes an evaluation component, is supported by the Yukon judiciary.
Clients can contact the service directly or be referred by a lawyer, the Family Law Information Centre or any agency. A formal referral is not necessary.
Sunny Patch
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca
Catherine Young
Communications, Justice
867-667-8050
catherine.young@gov.yk.ca