Family mediation explained
What is family mediation?
Family mediation involves you and your partner sitting down with a trained mediator to work out problems you may be struggling to work out on your own.
Mediators do not give legal advice, offer counselling or therapy, or make decisions for you. They help you both talk, listen and reach decisions together.
Why choose family mediation?
- Much cheaper than the solicitor and court route.
- A safe, neutral place to talk things through.
- Completely impartial with no sides taken.
- Simplicity: the process is informal, straightforward and constructive.
- Control: you remain in control, and as mediation is voluntary you can stop the process at any time.
- Saves time: and avoids the stress of a lengthy legal process.
- Improved future relationships: you are able to move forward and make a new start.
Who is family mediation for?
Family mediation can help improve communication, help you make decisions about future arrangements for the children, and help you make decisions about property and finance as they affect your separation.
It can also help anyone in the extended family where communication or relationships have become difficult.
What can we talk about?
What is the cost of family mediation?
Mediation is much cheaper than the solicitor and court route. A full overview of our prices can be found here.
How long does family mediation take?
When we receive your referral we aim to see you for the individual assessment meeting within two weeks.
Any further mediation sessions are then arranged at a time to suit both of you and the mediator. The number of sessions can vary. If you are sorting out finances and children's matters (All Issues Mediation) the average is between three and five meetings. If you are only discussing children's matters, two to three joint sessions is usually enough.
The time needed depends on:
- your individual circumstances
- the number and complexity of the issues that need resolving
- how flexible you can be with days and times for appointments
Most sessions last for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Want to talk to someone?
Call our friendly team today to discuss how we can help you.
Ready to start family mediation?
Complete a short referral form and we will be in touch to arrange your first meeting.