Frequently Asked Questions
When you separate there are often issues that are difficult to talk about but need to be sorted out, such as arrangements for your children, financial arrangements and what will happen to the family home. Left unresolved, problems can escalate and lead to bitterness, high legal costs and wasted time. Using family mediation can help you find an amicable solution, keep your legal costs down and help you find strategies to deal with situations as they arise in the future.
Research has shown that agreements reached outside court are felt to be more satisfactory by the people involved and have a much greater chance of succeeding in the longer term.
These are some of the questions that are frequently asked -
Who are the mediators?
This link will take you to another page where you can find out about our team of specialist family mediators.
What does the mediator do?
The mediator is impartial and does not represent the interests of either of you. They will make sure you are both able to express your views, help you generate options and ideas about how to resolve the situation and explore ideas with you to help you decide what works best for your family.
Do we both have to attend?
Mediation is about the decisions that you make together, so we do need you both to be involved. You can attend the initial Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM) on your own or together.
Why do I need to attend a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting?
There are some things we need to do before you start mediation and this is best done in a separate meeting. The mediator will want to find out more about the current situation and what kind of issues need sorting out. They will also talk to you about what happens in mediation, the ways it can be of help and check out any concerns you may have. If you want to apply for legally aided mediation we will need to have completed the assessment before you start mediation. You may also need to attend a MIAM if you are considering making an application the Family Courts.
Do I still need a solicitor?
Sometimes a mediated agreement will mean that further legal advice or intervention is not necessary, however mediation is not a replacement for your solicitor. There are times when we may recommend that you take legal advice on the proposals being made in mediation, particularly where those proposals are to form the basis of a consent order.
Where and when are appointments available?
This link will take you to another page that provides this information.
How much does mediation cost?
Information about our costs can be found here. We have a contract to offer legally aided mediation - if you think you may be eligible you will need to provide evidence of income for yourself and anyone you are living with as a partner.
How long does mediation take?
We would usually expect to hold between 3 and 5 meetings (excluding the MIAM) depending on the type and complexity of your case. Mediation sessions last up to 90 minutes.
Can children be involved in the mediation process?
When appropriate children can be invited to attend their own meeting with a specially trained mediator. The children will agree with the mediator what is to be fed back to the parents at the start of their next meeting. This page gives more information.
If your question has not been answered please CALL US ON : (024) 7663 3434
