FAQ

No – but the summary (MOU and OFS) prepared by the mediator once mediation is complete can be given to your solicitor to be incorporated into a court order or a legally binding agreement.

If you wish to pursue your case through court, your case can be dealt with by your solicitor. In some cases we invite the solicitors to attend at the last mediation session which many clients feel speeds up the process and is more cost effective. Most people find mediation less stressful and a far better option than court. It helps you both to negotiate and make your own decisions about what’s right for you. It’s usually quicker and more cost effective than using solicitor/court route.

Please call the office to discuss these concerns. We can arrange for separate waiting and access areas and other arrangements to ensure you feel safe and comfortable. When required we can provide ‘shuttle mediation’ i.e. with each client being in a separate room

Since 6th of April 2011 the Government has decided that anyone in a family dispute is expected to have attended a mediation information meeting to find out about mediation. If you do not attend your case could be seriously delayed or adjourned until you have met with a Mediator. If you have concerns or worries about attending a mediation meeting please call the office and we will do our best to help.

We will check if you are eligible at your first meeting. If you would like to check in advance you can check on <a href=”http://www.legalservices.gov.uk/civil/guidance/eligibility_calculator.asp”>www.legalservice.gov.uk</a> website. Clients receiving income support, employment and support allowance, income based job seekers allowance or guarantee credit will qualify automatically for Legal Aid.

If you are eligible for legal aid Mediation is free of charge. For privately paying clients the costs will be discussed in the first meeting, but mediation is much cheaper and quicker than going to court.

Clients usually require 3-5 sessions. Each session lasts around 90 minutes.

Mediation is a process that assists clients to resolve any issues including family, relationship and financial issues in a confidential and safe environment. Mediation is a faster process and far cheaper than going to Court. In addition you are able to make decisions that suit your family’s unique situation rather than having arrangements imposed on you by the Court. Research shows that mediation assists families to separate co-operatively and the impact of separation and divorce on children is significantly reduced.