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About Us
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We adhere to Codes
of Practice approved by the Law Society and the The College of Mediators which embody internationally
accepted principles of mediation.
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Mediation sessions usually last one and a half hours.
The number of sessions depends upon the nature and complexity of the
issues and the pace at which the couple wish to go – generally 3 to 6
sessions are needed. The charges for mediation are payable at the end of
each session and may be shared between the couple in any way they agree.
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We specialise in working with couples involved in separation or divorce.
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Separation and divorce usually involve a major
crisis for the family. Arrangements for the children, housing, financial
and property decisions need to be worked out. There may be a lot of anger
between the couple and great distress.
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Separating and divorcing couples might want to
avoid contested court proceedings which can escalate hostility and be very
costly, both emotionally and financially. It is often impossible for
couples to work things out on their own.
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and experienced mediators work together with the couple to help to
consider the options available and possible ways of reaching agreement,
while aiming to avoid pressure being put on either one of them. |
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What is mediation?
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Mediation involves both parties in working out
arrangements for themselves and their children instead of handing over
control of their affairs to solicitors or a court.
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Mediators do not take sides or tell people what they
ought to do and they have no power to impose decisions. Their role is to
reduce conflict by encouraging couples to explore the financial issues
that need to be settled and to consider the options that may be available
to them. They also help couples focus on children’s feelings and needs,
encouraging parental co-operation wherever possible.
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What problems can be brought to mediation?
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Any or all of the problems that arise when couples
part:-
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Decisions about day to day care – residency and contact
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Housing
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Arrangements for the division of capital including pensions
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Financial support for the family
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Mediation is not a substitute for legal advice, as
mediators do not advise or represent either party individually. They help
both parties work out proposals for settlement which they then summarise
for them. Each party is encouraged to take the summary to a solicitor for
legal advice. It can then be formalised as a legally binding agreement.
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Is mediation confidential?
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Mediators treat all discussion as strictly
confidential except where someone’s life or welfare may be in danger.
Financial information may be used by either party should there be court
proceedings. However, discussions to try to resolve differences are
“without prejudice” and legally privileged.
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When can people come to mediation?
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People can come to mediation at any stage of their
divorce or separation.
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