Robert Finlay
Robert Finlay is an articling student and experienced family mediator at Crossroads Law, bringing more than 15 years of mediation experience to clients across British Columbia. He has facilitated hundreds of complex family law mediations and is known for his steady, practical approach to helping families resolve disputes.
Foundations in Communication and Conflict Resolution
Robert’s path to family law was shaped by early exposure to seasoned professionals in his family, including a long-time mediator with more than four decades of experience in counselling, parenting coordination, and evaluation, and a respected advocate who co-founded a prominent law firm in British Columbia. Surrounded by mentors who instilled in him the values of communication, principled advocacy, and creative problem-solving, he developed a passion for justice and a natural talent for guiding people through conflict.
Guided by these principles, Robert began his career in mediation, an intentional choice grounded in his belief that negotiation and mediation often lead to outcomes that are more effective, timely, and accessible for families than litigation. This foundation enriches his work as an advocate, equipping him with a practical approach to supporting clients in both collaborative and court-based processes.
In addition to his direct work with families, Robert served as the Manager of Family Mediation Services at Mediate BC, where he developed and led a province-wide initiative that expanded access to mediation and strengthened training for emerging mediators. He has also taught mediation theory and skills with Mediate BC, providing instruction to judges, lawyers, counsellors, and other dispute resolution professionals, reflecting both the depth of his experience and his commitment to advancing the field.
Empowering Families Through a Supportive Mediation Process
Robert approaches mediation by creating a supportive environment where parties feel heard, understood, and confident in their decisions. By assisting clients in identifying their priorities, considering options, and working toward sustainable agreements, he helps families resolve their matters without the cost and uncertainty of court.
To accommodate the diverse needs of the families he serves, Robert offers flexible mediation formats, including in-person, virtual, and hybrid sessions.
A Balanced Approach to Negotiation and Litigation
In his legal practice, Robert brings the same values of respect and collaboration that have guided his mediation career. He works closely with clients to understand their goals, provide clear and practical advice, and ensure they feel supported at every stage of the process. When matters cannot be resolved outside of court, he is prepared to advocate confidently and thoroughly in litigation, drawing on his resolution-focused approach to help clients navigate conflict with purpose and perspective.
Robert provides family mediation and legal services in many areas, including:
- Divorce and separation
- Agreements, including cohabitation agreements, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, or separation agreements
Parenting & Guardianship
- Child custody and parenting time, including regular, holiday, and vacation schedules
- Child guardianship and decision-making
- Co-parent communication
- Safety, health, and well-being of children
- Views of the child
- Parental alienation, estrangement, and reunification
- Relocation and travel with children
- Grandparent rights, access, and contact
Financial Matters
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Family property and debt division
Outside of the office, Robert enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and friends. He leads an active lifestyle, hiking the Grouse Grind, weightlifting at the gym, and travelling abroad. Robert’s favourite travel destinations include Tanzania, Japan, the Greek Islands, Ireland, Hong Kong, and the Galapagos Islands.
Our mediation experience with Robert Finlay was incredibly positive. He facilitated our discussions with kindness, clarity, and professionalism, helping us reach agreement on the key issues. His guidance was thoughtful and genuinely appreciated.
Credentials
- Juris Doctor, Law, Seattle University School of Law
- Certificate of Qualification, Federation of Law Societies of Canada
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Simon Fraser University
- Registered Roster Mediator, Mediate BC
- Certified Mediator, Washington Mediation Association
- Certificates in Mediation and Negotiation, Justice Institute of British Columbia
Associations
- Washington State Bar Association
- Mediate BC
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