QIs family mediation only for married couples?
ANo. We can help married, unmarried and same sex couples to find solutions to family disputes.
QWhat if my partner and I are still living together? Do you think mediation could be helpful?
AThis may be a difficult time for you, but it may be a good opportunity to agree arrangements for separation, particularly those for the children.
QWhat kind of issues can mediation help to resolve?
AWe can help you to work out both the division of family assets and arrangements for children. In cases where divorce is an issue, we can help you and your partner to agree the basis of a divorce petition around the table.
QIf I come to mediation, do I still need to incur the cost of a solicitor?
AYes. You will need a solicitor to give you your own independent legal advice. Even though almost all our mediators are lawyers, they cannot advise each of you separately, but can only provide legal information to both of you together.
QDo you think I will save money by attending mediation?
AThere is no doubt that when couples are separating, resources are frequently limited. We are sure you will find that costs are substantially reduced by working out arrangements for separation around the table.
The initial meeting is in any case free, and will give you and your partner an opportunity to learn about the mediation process. You will then be able to make an informed decision about whether it is the right course of action for you. It will also give the mediator an opportunity to assess you for public funding and check whether your case is suitable for mediation.
QHow long do you think mediation will take?
AAs soon as you and your partner have each attended an initial assessment meeting, we will make an appointment for you to attend a meeting together. Many of our cases are settled in 2 or 3 joint meetings.
In cases where there are a number of family assets, it greatly speeds up the mediation process if you can obtain valuations of assets in time for the first meeting. Transfer values of pensions are often difficult to obtain and can hold up the mediation process. They should be applied for at the earliest opportunity.