If your separation, divorce or discussions about child arrangements, living arrangements or even finances are not progressing how you would like, it may be time to consider a new approach.
The week starting from the 27th of January onwards is Family Mediation Week and if you have not considered or tried mediation yet, now is your chance, it could save your family relationships.
What Is Family Mediation?
Family mediation covers a lot of ground, but in short it is a process where you and your ex-partner have a series of meetings with an independent and professionally trained mediator to discuss and hopefully resolve any matters.
What could these family matters be?
Family mediation solicitors are often used for the mediated discussion and decision making regarding child arrangements, financial arrangements or both. Plus, it is worth mentioning that you can each have your own legal advisors advising you outside of the meetings.
What Happens During Family Mediation?
Before the first joint meeting with family mediation solicitors, you will each have an individual, confidential 1 hour meeting with the mediator to discuss your case in detail and understand the process.
You are in control of the decisions reached and are able to tailor agreements so that they work for you and your family rather than have a Judge impose orders on you both.
an independent, professionally trained mediator facilitates discussions between both parties.
They do not take sides or make decisions but guide you through each issue to help you find workable solutions. Mediation sessions can be held jointly or separately, depending on what suits your circumstances best. Then, if you are able to reach an agreement, the mediator can draft a “memorandum of understanding”, a summary of the decisions made so you can both confidently move forward.
Ultimately, mediation offers privacy, efficiency and cost saving compared to other processes such as court or solicitor negotiation. Not only that, but arguably, a lot more can often be achieved in focussed 1- 2 hour meetings rather than via costly and acrimonious letters flying back and forth between your solicitors.
“Is My Case Suitable for Mediation?”
Mediation relies on you both agreeing to enter into the process and then working hard to reach resolutions, if this is something that applies to you then the answer is, yes.
You should also think about whether you feel you can speak freely, as you will need to be able to express your ideas and proposals in the meetings. You do not have to be in the same room as the other party and the mediator can discuss this if it may be suitable as mentioned.
Generally, mediation is not suitable where there has been abuse, so don’t worry if this is a position you resonate with. Our mediators are trained to carefully screen for abuse and will conduct safeguarding checks throughout the process.
Why to First Consider Family Mediation
Before applying to the court for an order in many types of family law disputes, such as financial settlements or child arrangements, you are often required to demonstrate that you have properly considered alternative dispute resolution options, with family matters mediation being the most common.
This is part of a legal requirement known as the MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting), which aims to encourage a less adversarial approach to family breakdowns.
As a leading law firm dealing with family mediation, we would encourage our clients to consider mediation not just because it is required, but because it often leads to better long-term outcomes. Our solicitors are trained to support you through the mediation process and can advise you throughout, helping you reach agreements that protect your interests and those of any children involved.
How Much Does Family Mediation Cost?
The cost of the initial individual meeting is £160 plus VAT per person, please contact us for the most up-to-date pricing.
Fees for the joint meetings are charged at a flat rate per meeting and this will be discussed with you in your initial meetings.
We are taking part in the Family Mediation Voucher scheme. You can explore whether your case is eligible with the mediator in the initial meeting.
Begin the Journey of Family Mediation with BBS Law
Mediation could offer you the chance to build a positive future for your family and we would be delighted to assist you with taking that first step.
Please contact the Family Team on 0208 349 0321 or via our contact form and one of our team will be happy to help you.
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