Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that is used in family law to help resolve disputes without having to go to court.
Family mediation offers a non-confrontational environment where parties work together alongside an independent, professional third-party to find mutually beneficial solutions to issues that arise when couples separate, such as arrangements for children and deciding on the division of assets.
A mediator’s role is not to get you back together or to take sides. Rather it is to facilitate discussion and create an environment that is conducive to you and your ex-partner finding solutions that you can both agree on.
Mediation can be extremely effective for separating couples and has various advantages over the litigation process.
To mark this year’s Family Mediation Week, which runs from 27–31 January, in this blog our experienced Family Law Solicitors consider some of the main benefits of family mediation for separating couples.
- It’s cost-effective.
Fighting a lengthy battle through the courts can be expensive. Legal fees and court costs quickly add up, and family law cases can easily run into tens of thousands of pounds.
Mediation is a lot more cost effective. The Family Mediation Counsel says that most people can expect to pay £130–£170 per person per hour for mediation sessions, although this varies depending on where in the country the mediator is based, and the type of issues you need to discuss.
- It’s quick.
Mediation usually leads to speedier resolutions than relying on court proceedings.
Family law cases can easily take up to two years to be heard by the court. Resolving issues through family mediation is much faster.
Most couples can reach agreement on arrangements for their children in one or two meetings, according to the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass).
If you need to discuss property and financial issues as well, you may need three to five meetings.
- It’s less stressful.
Going to court can be extremely traumatic and can have a negative effect on everyone involved.
Family mediation significantly reduces the level of conflict that typically accompanies divorce proceedings. Mediation encourages couples to work together to reach an agreement rather than pitting parties against one another, as can happen if the matter goes before the courts.
- It encourages communication.
Communication is often strained between separating couples, and it can be difficult to talk to an ex, particularly if the relationship has ended badly.
However, at a time when important decisions need to be made, mediation helps couples to sit down together and find a way to communicate effectively.
- It’s flexible.
Mediation is a bespoke and voluntary process, and couples determine the speed, timing, topics, and outcome of their discussions.
Sessions can be arranged to fit in around work and other commitments.
Discussions and agreements can be adapted to meet a couple’s particular needs. If things change, the arrangements made can be revisited and updated.
- Couples retain control.
By reaching agreement themselves through mediation, separating couples retain control over their affairs.
Relying on the court system to impose a decision for them means surrendering this control.
The mediator is not a judge but will instead work with the couple in a neutral way.
- It produces better results.
Enabling separating couples to reach an agreement about their children, finances, property, and other relevant issues encourages compromise.
As couples have signed up to what they have agreed, they are more likely to stick to it.
Mediation also sets the tone for positive parenting. Agreements between separating parents that are reached in this way provide families with a firm foundation for their life to come.
Family Law Solicitors Wisbech
At Bowsers Solicitors, we are proud to support Family Mediation Week. The annual event is organised by the Family Mediation Council and is designed to raise awareness of family mediation and the benefits it can bring to separating families.
Mediation can help couples take control, make decisions together and build a positive future for their family.
If you have separated from your child’s parent and are struggling to agree on arrangements going forward, get in touch with Bowsers Solicitors.
Our dedicated specialists provide legal advice to individuals and families across March, Wisbech and wider Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk to assist in resolving children’s matters and other issues that arise following a separation.
We will take time to understand your situation and advise on the best way to proceed, always prioritising any children involved.
If you are looking for family law advice, please contact our experienced family solicitors and chartered legal executives today on 01945 583194 (Wisbech) or 01354 652606 (March), or email reception@bowsers.co.uk.
Alternatively, you can fill in our contact form.
