family mediation

Mediation: helping you to talk and work out solutions

The breakdown of any family relationship is upsetting and discussing the issues can be difficult. Mediation can help you to talk things through and sort out key issues. 

What is mediation?
Mediation is not relationship counselling. Mediation allows both you and your partner to work with a mediator who encourages negotiation and communication to help you reach an understanding about the future, following your relationship breakdown. They will make you aware of your options and help you talk about what matters to you.

How can the mediator help me?
A mediator gives impartial guidance to both parties, to help you reach practical solutions which you feel are fair for both of you and your family. They are totally neutral and will not take sides. They do not give legal advice, though they can provide legal information to help you make sense of your situation.

What can we talk about?
Many couples involve a mediator to help them discuss aspects of their divorce, separation or cohabitation, or to help them work through specific issues such as financial arrangements. Mediation can also be the best way to discuss childcare arrangements, and it is reassuring for the children to know that their parents are working together.

Is mediation mandatory?
No, mediation is a voluntary process however as from 6 April 2011 the Government has introduced Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMs). This meeting is mandatory for anyone wishing to issue a court application in relation to financial or children matters following a relationship breakdown (unless there are domestic violence issues). Our family mediator Janet Baines is fully qualified to conduct these MIAMs.

How much does it cost?
We are clear and transparent about our prices - we understand that in this difficult time, you want to know exactly how much we will charge you. Please click here to view all of our mediation costs.

Mediation can help you to avoid costly and lengthy court battles and reduces tension and hostility. Within our family and divorce team, Janet Baines is a fully qualified family law mediator and can also conduct MIAMs.

As a member of one of our Trade Unions you are eligible for a 10% discount on our professional charges.

Download our mediation information sheet here or see Janet's Q&A mediation article here.

View our press release on divorce mediation here.

CONTACT

Janet Baines - our fully qualified family law mediator