Creating Legally Compliant, Child-Centred Parenting Plan Mediation South Africa
We help co-parents design parenting plans that work — for them and their children. Whether you are separating, divorcing, or revisiting an existing arrangement, parenting plan mediation offers a legally sound, emotionally intelligent approach to resolving child custody and contact issues without going to court.
We offer in-person parenting plan mediation in Roodepoort and Ballito, and online mediation services nationwide via secure video conferencing.
What Is Parenting Plan Mediation South Africa?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between co-holders of parental responsibilities and rights, which outlines how each parent will exercise those responsibilities and rights and care for their child. Parenting plans typically cover:
- The child’s primary residence
- Contact schedules
- Schooling, religion, and medical care
- Holiday arrangements
- Decision-making protocols
When Is a Parenting Plan Required?
Under Section 33(2) of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, parents who share responsibilities and are experiencing difficulties must attempt to agree on a parenting plan before approaching the court.
In other words, parenting plan mediation is not optional in many cases — it is the first step in resolving parenting disputes legally and effectively.
Child Participation in Mediation (Section 10)
We strongly believe that children should have a say in decisions that affect them. Section 10 of the Children’s Act provides that:
“Every child that is of such an age, maturity and stage of development as to be able to participate in any matter concerning that child has the right to participate in an appropriate way.”
During mediation, we ensure that:
- Children are heard in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner by mental health professionals
- Qualified professionals such as social workers or psychologists are utilised to report on the views and wishes of the child
- The child’s views are considered in line with their developmental needs and best interests
How Mediation Helps Co-Parents
Our NABFAM-accredited attorney-mediators facilitate a structured, neutral process that:
- Reduces conflict and supports communication
- Focuses on the best interests of the child
- Creates agreements that are legally compliant and practically workable
- Can be submitted to the Family Advocate or made an order of court using Form 8
We often work with psychologists, social workers, and legal representatives to ensure complex issues are addressed holistically.
Parenting Plan Mediation Process
While each matter is different, mediation is a flexible and adaptive process guided by the needs of the parties. In most cases, the process will follow these general steps:
- Agreement to Mediate
Both parents sign a written agreement appointing an attorney-mediator from Vermeulen Attorneys as mediator. - Intake & Individual Sessions
Each parent completes an intake form and attends a private session to discuss expectations and concerns. - Child Participation (if appropriate)
We explore the appropriate method for including the child’s views, either directly or through a specialist. - Joint Mediation Session
The mediator guides a structured dialogue where key parenting issues are discussed and resolved collaboratively. - Drafting the Parenting Plan
We draft a clear, legally sound parenting plan that can be:- Submitted to the Family Advocate
- Made an order of court if needed
Serving Roodepoort, Ballito, and Beyond
- Parenting Plan Mediation Roodepoort – Conveniently located near Clearwater Mall for in-person mediation
- Parenting Plan Mediation Ballito – Based at Ballito Junction, accessible to parents across KZN North Coast
- Online Parenting Plan Mediation South Africa – Available to co-parents nationwide via video conferencing
Book a Parenting Plan Mediation Consultation
Whether you are developing a new parenting plan or updating an existing one, our mediators will guide you through the process professionally, respectfully, and in the best interests of your child.
Get in touch with Vermeulen Attorneys today to book your parenting plan mediation session — we’re here to help you find a solution that works for you and your family.
