Frequently Asked Questions

Must I meet my ex partner when I come for mediation?
Is it confidential?
Is mediation legally binding?
How much will it cost?
Can I still get separate legal advice?
Why has my solicitor referred me to mediation?

Must I meet my ex partner when I come for mediation?

In your first meeting with a mediator you may either make an appointment just for yourself, or you can come along with your ex partner. If you both decide to mediate you will see your ex partner in mediation sessions. If this is difficult for you please tell us. We have separate waiting rooms and you could leave our office at different times. Also, we can make sure you are never left alone together if that would help.

Is it confidential?

Anything you say to the mediator is confidential unless there is concern for the safety of anyone in the family, especially your children.

How much will it cost?

Nothing if you are on low income and eligible for public funding. If not, there will be a very reasonable charge to help with the cost of running our local charity.

Download a list of our charges

Is mediation legally binding?

No, but you can take copies of any agreements to your solicitor to be converted into legal documents.

Can I still get separate legal advice?

Yes. You will need to see your solicitor (or any other solicitor experienced in family law) for separate legal advice. Mediators cannot give legal advice but we can provide you with a list of family solicitors in your area offering publicly funded help.

Why has my solicitor referred me to mediation?

If you wish to apply for public funding with your solicitor, the Legal Services Commission require you to attend an introductory meeting with a family mediator to consider whether mediation is an option before you can submit your application for funding.

From 6 April 2011 new rules were introduced in most family proceedings. These new rules say that you cannot start any Court proceedings until you have attended a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) with a family mediator to find out about family mediation.

"Having a calm, detached third person present was helpful"
"The Service was excellent. I cannot think of anything else that could be done to improve it. A very positive experience in a difficult situation. It helps to reduce the stress levels"
"It does provide a forum to talk where otherwise it may not be possible"
"I am very happy with how things have gone and it all happened so quickly. Now we get on well, which our son can see which is really good for him"
"It was really helpful in my case and avoided high legal costs"