The Pilot Scheme on Family
Mediation was set up by the Judiciary Department and was launched
in May 2000. HKCS has participated in this Pilot Scheme since
its onset. The Scheme aims to provide an alternative avenue
for separating/divorcing couples to settle matters such as child
custody and access, joint property and other financial matters
apart from traditional litigation process.
Separating/divorcing couples will need to attend an information
session on mediation conducted by the Mediation Coordinator.
The parties may then choose their mediator from a list of accredited
mediators. Most mediators come from a legal or social work profession
and have completed the requirements for accreditation as set
out by the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre before
they are qualified to practice.
We have one accredited mediator
associated with our Counseling and Family Life Education Service
but we have already received many referrals. Couples who have
received our services came from various background and life
stages, ranging from newly wed to couples married for years.
The main job of a mediator is to help the couple overcome some
of their emotional blockages and offer a platform for them to
explore their needs, to facilitate calm discussions of their
disputes and expand their options for solutions, and to draw
up their agreements.
The results so far are encouraging
that most couples were able to reach a full agreement for their
disputes. The process of negotiating for oneself has not only
increased the efficacy in ensuring a better life for themselves
and their children after the divorce, but also enhanced their
motivation to implement their agreements.
All services are free of charge
to the public under the Pilot Scheme.
