So what is Family Mediation?

Family Mediation is a registered charity with a simple aim - "to help reduce family conflict". Family Mediation can help when arrangements that have worked suddenly fall apart because circumstances or relationships change. Our mediators will listen to your concerns and help you explore alternative course of action to resolve the difficulties, but they will not take sides or make any decisions for you. Their task is to act as an impartial third party, managing the process and encouraging constructive communication.

What happens in mediation?

1. Assessment meeting

You will first be invited to an initial meeting with a mediator to discuss what you hope to achieve through mediation and to decide whether it is the best way forward for you. The mediator can also carry out financial assessment at this meeting to determine whether you are eligible for free or reduced cost mediation. You can choose to attend the assessment meeting on your own or with the other party. If you attend on your own and decide that you would like to proceed with mediation we will offer a separate appointment to the other party.

2. Mediation

When you have both attended assessment meetings, and providing you both want to proceed, a first joint mediation appointment will be arranged. Mediation sessions usually last between 1 and 2 hours depending on the issues being discussed. The length of each meeting and the number of sessions required will vary according to each particular case.

3. Final report / Memorandum of Understanding

When you are both satisfied that you have reached agreement on some or all of the matters under discussion a report will be prepared stating your agreement. Where agreement is reached on finance and property matters a comprehensive 'Memorandum of Understanding' will be drawn up for you both to sign. This is not a legally binding document but your solicitor can turn it into a formal legal agreement at your request.

How to make an appointment..

Please use our online contact form or call us on 01905 610925 (quote website). We are open for telephone enquiries and arranging appointments between 9.30am and 1.30pm. Monday through Friday. An answer phone is in operation at other times.

Your questions answered..

• Who are the mediators?...
• What venues are available?..
• Must I attend?...
• What does it cost?...
• Is it confidential?...