Welcome! I am here to help.
About me
After obtaining an LLB degree in 2003 and later an LLM degree, both from the Stellenbosch University, I worked at Van der Spuy Attorneys in Cape Town and was admitted as an attorney in 2008.
Experiencing the way courts deal with divorce and matters related to it has led me to pursue a career in mediation. I am committed to using this platform to assist families and their children in need and guide them through this very difficult time in order to find the best outcome possible. No one wins in a divorce, but mediation is such an interactive process that the negotiation between the parties gives everyone an equal opportunity and say.
I am also a NABFAM (National Accreditation Board of Family Mediators) accredited divorce and separation family mediator and a registered member of SAAM (South African Association of Mediators).
The role of a divorce mediator
Going through a divorce or separation is a deeply emotional and often traumatic experience, even when it is mutual and amicable. Many people feel powerless and experience a profound sense of loss, along with fear and uncertainty about the future. When children are involved, there is added pain, guilt, and concern for their well-being, as well as the challenge of navigating new co-parenting roles. Decisions regarding where the children will reside, how care will be shared, and the financial implications are consistently the most contentious issues in any separation or divorce.
This is where a competent mediator plays a vital dual role. A mediator must be knowledgeable about the complex legal framework and clearly explain these legalities, while also remaining mindful of the emotional and psychological state of the parties and the short- and long-term impact of decisions on everyone involved. As a mediator, I remain objective and neutral, helping parties communicate more effectively. While some conflict is to be expected, impartial and non-judgmental guidance allows parties to voice their concerns, resolve issues where possible, and reach fair compromises. This ensures a transparent process in which the parties themselves remain responsible for the final agreement, supported by professional mediation.
South African law makes specific provision for the voice of the child and child participation in divorce or separation matters and depending on the age and level of maturity of each child, I make use of specialist child play therapists, psychologists or specialised social workers to assess the minor children and make recommendations. Regardless of the age of the child, their rights have to be protected and that is done through professional assessments by qualified experts.
What to expect from the mediation process
As a mediator, I assist with negotiating and resolving issues regarding children and co-parenting. I am also tasked with the drafting of a detailed parenting plan regarding the children’s contact schedule with each parent, division of assets, child and spousal maintenance and other related matters. The final agreement will always be one reached jointly by the two parties and it is advisable to contact an attorney at this stage to make sure your interests are protected. Mediation is also a voluntary process, and any party may end this process at any stage. It is protected by confidentiality, and it is important for parties to be aware that nothing discussed in mediation may be used against you in court.
How the process works
One party will contact me, but it is important to note that I will not contact the other party. The responsibility remains with the contacting party to give my information to the other party, who will then also contact me personally. Only then will all the parties involved agree on scheduling a meeting. This also ensures that I remain impartial, and neither party should ever feel blindsided.
Ongoing court cases and conflict between the parents is the number one cause of further emotional stress on the minor children. Apart from the very costly legal fees and the long waiting periods for available court dates, mediation is not only faster and cheaper but also a far less traumatic process, and anyone who has been through this will agree.
I am available for online sessions and I am willing to travel to meet with clients in Gqeberha, St Francis Bay, Jeffreys Bay and other surrounding areas.
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