Document Preparation
Document Preparation & Pricing
Moving from Agreement to Action
Forward Family Mediation also offers optional administrative services to take your mediated terms to the next step.
"Separation Agreement Drafting Support
Once you and the other party reach an agreement in mediation, we can help turn those terms into a clear, well-organized first draft of a separation agreement. This draft is prepared by a lawyer working from your mediation terms, but they will not be giving legal advice to either of you.
You will then take this draft to your own lawyer for Independent Legal Advice (ILA). Your lawyer will review the terms with you, explain your rights and obligations, and make any necessary changes before you sign. This step ensures your agreement is clear, fair, and fully understood. While mediation can save time and legal costs, ILA is always essential before signing any agreement.
⚠ Important: Any agreement prepared through Forward Family Mediation is a first draft only and should be reviewed, discussed, and finalized with each party’s own lawyer through Independent Legal Advice (ILA) before it is signed.
Uncontested Divorce Document Preparation
If you and your former partner have already settled parenting, support, and property issues, Forward Family Mediation can help organize and prepare the paperwork for an uncontested divorce (joint or simple). We complete the forms using the information you provide and give you a step-by-step guide on how to file and move the process forward.
What we do
• Provide a checklist of what you’ll need (IDs, dates, marriage certificate, prior orders, etc.).
• Prepare standard court forms and assemble supporting documents (as applicable).
• Flag common filing requirements and sequencing (signing/commissioning, service, waiting periods, next steps).
• Give you a plain-language roadmap for filing (online or in person), service, and typical timelines.
What we don’t do
• We do not provide legal advice or represent either party.
• We do not file documents with the court or pay court fees on your behalf.
• We do not communicate with the court or the other party’s lawyer for you.
• We do not replace Independent Legal Advice (ILA).
ILA strongly recommended
Before you file, your documents should be reviewed and discussed with your own lawyer through Independent Legal Advice (ILA), especially if children, support, or property are involved.
⚠ Important: Forward Family Mediation provides document preparation and information only. We do not give legal advice or act for you in court. All drafts and completed forms should be reviewed with your own lawyer through ILA before filing. You are responsible for filing, service, and court fees.
Why Use A Mediator For Document Preparation?
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Save time and reduce legal fees – mediation narrows the issues and organizes your terms before legal review.
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Clarity and accuracy – documents are prepared from agreements made during mediation, reducing misunderstandings.
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Streamlined process – we handle the organization and formatting so your next steps are simpler.
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Less stress – we maintain a neutral, solution-focused approach while guiding you through paperwork in a supportive environment.
What to Expect
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Intake: Susan will meet with each of the parents once to determine the scope of the report.
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Child-Centred Approach: Susan meets privately with the child(ren) twice, once in each parents care, to explore their views in a neutral and supportive environment.
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Limited Scope: Reports focus on one or two specific issues (to be determined by the parents and Susan) and do not include recommendations, only the child’s voice.
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Efficient Process: VOC Reports are typically completed within 30 days, providing families and courts with timely input without the length or cost of a full parenting assessment.
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Reduced Stress for Children: By capturing children’s voices in this way, a VOC Report reduces emotional strain and potential long-term impact on the child(ren).
Why Choose a VOC Report?
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Helps parents and judges understand the child’s unique perspective.
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Provides meaningful input for parenting plans and court decisions.
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Is more cost-effective and timely than a full parenting assessment.
Susan, trained in mediation and children's mental health, is dedicated to representing children's perspectives respectfully and appropriately.
Process & Pricing What is Involved?
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Interviews with Children: The clinician will meet with each child twice, virtually. Accommodations will be made to ensure privacy, with a location to be determined.
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Child-Centered Approach: Children are encouraged to share their experiences in a safe and neutral setting.
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Parents’ Role: Parents arrange for virtual setup but are not part of the interviews, ensuring that the report reflects only the children’s voices.
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Focused Scope: Reports address one or two specific issues (as agreed upon) and do not include recommendations—only the child’s expressed views and wishes.
What is the Cost?
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Flat Rate: $1,000 for one child.
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Additional Children: $500 for each additional child.
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Payment Options: Parents may split the cost or one parent may cover it entirely. Full payment is required before interviews are scheduled.
Connect with Susan
If you would like to learn more or schedule a Voice of the Child Report, please connect with Susan directly:
Susan Cook
Email: susancookmediation@gmail.com
Phone: 905-717-8454
All arrangements, including billing, for Voice of the Child Reports are handled by Susan. We are pleased to feature her services here so that families have an easy way to reach out and ensure their children’s voices are heard in a respectful and supportive process.
What to Expect from Coaching:
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Emotional & Practical Support – guidance through the stresses of separation, divorce, and co-parenting transitions.
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Goal Setting & Clarity – identify priorities, evaluate options, and create a personalized plan for moving forward.
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Improved Communication – strategies to reduce conflict and communicate more effectively with your co-parent and professionals (lawyers, mediators, courts).
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Empowered Decision-Making – coaching builds confidence to make informed, self-directed choices.
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Child-Focused Approach – ensuring parenting decisions support healthy relationships and stability for children.
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Cost & Stress Reduction – effective support can minimize the emotional and financial toll of ongoing conflict.
Sometimes, even the strongest bridges need repair. Coaching helps you find your footing and rebuild healthy communication.
All arrangements, including billing, for Parent and Divorce are handled by Susan. We are pleased to feature her services here so that families have an easy way to reach out and ensure their children’s voices are heard in a respectful and supportive process