Shelina has developed her mediation knowledge and skills over a period of more than 25 years of combined training and professional experience in social work, law, mediation and counselling/coaching. This unique professional background has provided her with insight and skill to resolve conflicts and improve communication. Through her extensive experience in litigation, Shelina recognizes that court should be the last resort. Court can be expensive, inefficient, stressful and divisive, although sometimes necessary.

Her approach is to resolve disputes outside of the court process and to assist parties in reaching an agreement using a variety of techniques from more interest based (finding out what is important) to more evaluative approaches (what the law or courts might say), all in accordance to the needs and wishes of the parties.

Acting as an impartial and confidential facilitator, Shelina encourages communication in an environment of mutual respect, helps all parties gain better understanding, and seeks to reduce conflict and tension. Sometimes the opportunity of a facilitated restorative conversation can help reset relationships. She ensures that each party has an opportunity to be heard, manages any power imbalance, and seeks disclosure of all relevant information. She will prepare documentation to record the agreement you reach, if you wish.

Shelina Neallani has degree in Social Work (1986 UBC)  and is a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers, a member of the British Columbia Association of Social Workers and the Canadian Association of Social Workers. She also has a degree in Law (1989 UBC) and in addition to being a lawyer, is an accredited Family Law Mediator and Arbitrator with the Law Society of British Columbia. Shelina is a member of Mediate BC’s Civil Roster and a former member of the Child Protection and Family Rosters. 

Shelina began her legal career in litigation and in 2006, established a mediation and consulting practice focusing on helping others resolve disputes and become the best versions of themselves and their organizations. She was formerly a mediator for Small Claims Court and consulted on projects related to dispute resolution and justice transformation initiatives on behalf of clients, including Legal Aid BC, Mediate BC, Civil Resolution Tribunal and the Province of British Columbia, as well as for organizations seeking to improve their workplace culture. See more about Neallani Law Mediation Consulting here.

Current Memberships

  • Law Society of BC
  • Canadian Bar Association
  • Mediate BC Society – Member of Civil Roster
  • BC College of Social Workers
  • BC Association of Social Workers
  • Canadian Association of Social Workers
  • International Women’s Forum

As an experienced mediator, Shelina Neallani can help guide you through the steps of resolving your dispute.

Legal services include:

  • divorce coaching
  • conflict coaching
  • mediation
  • facilitation
  • initial advice, help understanding the legal landscape and referrals
  • drafting agreements