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Divorce Battle South Africa

WHY MEDIATION?

Stay Out of Court

Divorce and parenting disputes do not have to turn into long, expensive court battles. Litigation in South Africa can take years to finalise, placing strain on your finances, your emotional wellbeing, and most importantly, your children. Mediation offers a structured, practical alternative — allowing you to resolve disputes efficiently, privately, and with greater control over the outcome.

Why Mediation Works

Mediation is a guided process where a neutral professional assists both parties in reaching a fair and workable agreement.

It allows you to:

  • Resolve disputes without lengthy court proceedings

  • Reduce legal costs significantly

  • Focus on practical, child-centred solutions

  • Maintain greater control over decisions affecting your family

Rather than escalating conflict, mediation creates a space for constructive problem-solving and forward planning.

A Better Way to Co-Parent

Separation does not end your role as co-parents.

The quality of your co-parenting relationship will have a lasting impact on your child’s stability and wellbeing. Mediation helps you put clear, workable structures in place — reducing conflict and creating consistency for your child.

​How I Can Assist You

I assist with:

  • Divorce mediation (including uncontested / DIY divorces)

  • Parenting plans and care arrangements

  • Maintenance discussions

  • Post-divorce disputes and plan adjustments

All agreements are drafted with legal precision and can be made an order of court.

Is Mediation for You?

Mediation is most effective where:

  • Both parties are willing to engage in a structured process

  • There is a desire to resolve matters without litigation

  • The focus is on practical, workable outcomes

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Take the First Step

If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you are not alone.

Mediation provides a clear, structured way forward.

👉 Contact us to schedule a consultation
👉 Or send a WhatsApp to get started

Why mediation is a trusted process

OUR SERVICES

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DIVORCE MEDIATION

4 - 6 Hours

Divorce Settlement Agreement

Maintenance Agreement

Parenting Plan

PARENTING PLAN

2 - 4 Hours

New Parenting Plan

(Including Contact Schedule)

Revision of Existing Parenting Plan

MAINTENANCE

2 - 4 Hours

As part of divorce settlement or child maintenance for unmarried parents

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Every family situation is different. Below are the most common matters we assist with — each approached with a practical, child-focused and legally sound process.

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SECTION 22 AGREEMENT

2 - 3 Hours

COHABITATION AGREEMENT

2 - 4 Hours

INITIAL CONSULTATION

20 Minute information session

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YOUR MEDIATOR

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MARIQUE HOPKINS

I am an admitted attorney and internationally accredited mediator, specialising in family mediation, divorce matters and parenting disputes. My approach is practical, structured and focused on achieving clear, workable outcomes — always with the best interests of children at the centre of the process.

With both legal training and mediation expertise, I assist parties in reaching agreements that are not only fair, but also capable of being made an order of court.

Mediation can feel overwhelming at first. My role is to guide the process professionally, keep discussions constructive, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

QUALIFICATIONS & ACCREDITATION

  • Admitted Attorney

  • LLB; LLM

  • Internationally Accredited Mediator (International ADR Register)

  • Negotiator & Conflict Coach

Professional family mediator in South Africa

​CONTACT

Email: marique@openmindmediation.co.za

Cell:  (+27) 083 264 9053

Mediation process in South Africa

CONTACT US FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT AND QUOTE FOR YOUR MATTER

Physical Address

32 Lang Street, De Kuilen, Kuils River, 7580

Email

marique@openmindmediation.co.za

Tel

+27 83 264 9053

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GET IN TOUCH

Taking the first step can feel overwhelming. You are welcome to reach out confidentially to discuss your situation and whether mediation may assist.

Physical Address

32 Lang Street, De Kuilen, Kuils River, 7580

Email

marique@openmindmediation.co.za

Tel

+27 83 264 9053

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Disclaimer: The information provided on www.openmindmediation.co.za is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys general information related to common legal issues. The use of and access to this website is subject to additional terms and conditions.

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