Practical solutions to problems after separation and divorce
telephone 0121 233 1999 or 01922 611966
telephone 0121 233 1999 or 01922 611966
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.
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.
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 and assessment meeting (MIAM) on your own and occasionally we do conduct shuttle mediation, where you sit in separate rooms or attend at different times.Why do I need to attend a mediation information and assessment meeting?
There are some things we need to do before you start mediation and this is generally 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.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 will recommend you take legal advice on the proposals being made in mediation, particularly where those proposals are to form the basis of a consent order.How much does mediation cost?
Information about our costs can be found here or you can download our factsheet. We are able to offer legally aided mediation - if you think you may be eligible please download the information sheet.How long does mediation take?
We would usually expect to hold between 3 and 5 meetings (excluding pre-mediation) depending on the complexity of your case. Mediation appointments usually last between 60 and 90 minutes.
