When can mediation be used?

You can make use of mediation -

• Before you actually separate (to make an application for legal aid you need to be living "separately under the same roof")
• At relationship breakdown (although if there is high emotion or dispute it can be extremely difficult)
• After separation
• When you have decided to divorce
• After you have divorced
• After a court case e.g. for contact
• When CAFCASS become involved
• Years after separation/divorce when contact becomes problematic as children grow up
• At any time

There does not have to be "dispute" between the parties, you can use mediation to make your arrangements for the future "amicably", thus ensuring that nothing is forgotten in your considerations.

Mediation is sometimes used by people who do not wish to use a lawyer to divorce. They use mediation to make their arrangements and then file for the divorce themselves using the internet or applying to the court themselves. However, we would always recommend that legal advice is sought before any final decisions are made.