Typical costs can run into many thousands of pounds (anywhere from £6,000 - £20,000) when using a solicitor to resolve issues associated with divorce and reaching a settlement.

Communication

Using solicitors can also result in communication between couples disintegrating, it is particularly crucial for parents to maintain communication between them at this time to fulfil their role effectively as a mum and dad. Children need their parents to be able to talk to each other and to them about what is happening especially when they are faced with making important decisions for their family as well as themselves.

Time

How much will mediation cost?  

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Can we meet up at home?  

This would only be available if one or both parties were unable to leave the home due to severe disability.

Do we both have to attend each meeting?

Yes, the mediator would not be able to see one party over the other as this would create an imbalance which would go against the basic principal of mediation.

How long are the meetings and how often do they take place?

The frequency of meetings are decided by those attending mediation.  The mediator may suggest a longer period in between meetings in order to gather relevant information and to help ensure that the process progresses. Generally speaking meetings last an hour and half.   However should you wish a shorter meeting or a longer period contact us by using our online contact form here or for more details or check our costs page for packages available or all day option.   

Can I bring a friend along with me?

You can bring a friend along with you, but they would not be involved in the mediation, they would need to wait in the waiting room.   If there are safety issues with regard to attending mediation these need to discussed with the mediator before mediation can commence.

Do I still need a solicitor?

You need to make your own decision with regard to this.  Many people who attend mediation have a legal advisor to protect their own individual interests and to prepare orders for court at the end of mediation.

Who can use Mediation?

• Married couples still living together, but are planning to part

• Those who have recently decided to separate

• Couples who have been separated for a considerable length of time perhaps years

• People who are already divorced

• Parents with contact issues

• Couples who do not have children

• Parents or couples who have not lived together

• Those not married to each other

• Couples from same sex relationships

• Grandparents or other family members wanting to make arrangements to see children.

Children and mediation

This is known as Child Consultation, and not mediation. 

The purpose of this would be to give any children of a divorcing family the opportunity to air their  views on the situation and may help parents in making decisions regarding the children particularly with regard to contact.

Mediation Matters will see children by themselves if both parents and the child wishes them to do so.  This is aimed at giving children “a voice, but not a choice”, ultimately parents will always make the final decision with regard to any arrangements involving the children.

Is mediation for everyone?

Those considering mediation must have a genuine desire to reach an agreement, and be prepared to consider options other than their own.  It is also important that you are able to be open about your feelings with the other party in order to secure proposals that will work for both of you.

It is strongly suggested, particularly if communication is currently difficult between couples they make full use of the preliminary one hour meeting which will give them a "feel" of what it will be like in mediation.  In addition it will give them an opportunity to meet the mediator, and have  individual time to talk to the mediator about their particular concerns. This will also allow the mediator to assess whether mediation will be able to assist fully in resolving all the issues.