One of the most commonly asked questions is what is Family Mediation? We’ve set out below some further information to help guide you through the process:-
Mediation can be a simple and effective way of resolving matters without the requirement for lengthy and expensive court proceedings, whether it be related to children or financial matters.
Many families find that despite the relationship breaking down, mediation can be a channel through which they can find a way to work together with the benefit of their family. They regain trust which was previously lost due to the nature of the process being open and honest, in turn resulting in improved communication.
If you are able to agree matters in the forum of mediation, the outcomes are likely to be more sustainable and you will hopefully leave mediation better equipped to communicate effectively as co-parents.
The first step is to have separate intake meetings with your Mediator. If they assess mediation as suitable, then a meeting with both clients and the Mediator together will take place. This is usually 90 minutes for the first session.
You will then have the opportunity to go away and take legal and financial advice, coming back for a further session 2-3 weeks later. If mediation is successful, then an Advocate can draw up the terms of the agreement reached and have this filed with the Court to make it legally binding.
If you are in receipt of a qualifying benefit, then you may be eligible for the cost of mediation to be met by Legal Aid.
If you would like to discuss mediation, then please contact Polly Garrett at Callin Wild.
