Mediation
Mediation for divorce and separation
From 22/04/14 you must attend a mediation information and assessment meeting before you can go to court.
We aim to help you sort out your problems with the least possible stress and expense.
It is always difficult when relationships breakdown, emotions are running high and it seems impossible to talk about all the decisions that need to be made. This is where mediation can help.
What is Mediation?
Mediation helps people facing a relationship breakdown to meet with a Family Mediator, to help make the best arrangements for the future whether this is how your children are cared for or how your finances will be organised.
At a time when there are so many issues that will be worrying you, at Swain and Co Solicitors we hope through mediation we can help you avoid the additional stress of the costs, delays and uncertainty of court proceedings.
How does Mediation work?
You contact us and we will explain how family mediation works and ask what you want to achieve.
We will contact your ex-partner to say that we have been in contact with you and explain how mediation can help with sorting out issues arising from the relationship breakdown.
You can choose whether you have your first meeting together with a mediator to identify the issues which are important to you and need to be agreed.
Or alternatively you can meet the mediator separately first for information as to how the mediation process works.
Who is it for?
People who want to take control and make their own decisions on housing, children and financial arrangements following relationship breakdowns.
Mediation is a means to avoid the increased hostility and expense that Court proceedings could create.
What happens if we can’t agree?
It can still go to court. The majority of the information compiled at the mediation meetings would be required by solicitors acting on each party’s behalf. Plus, the court requires the information that has been gathered before making an Order, even in cases where agreement has been reached.
So even if you can’t agree, the mediation process is not wasted as the information is still needed.
“Our aim is to help you make informed decisions together that are right for your circumstances.”
What about the expense of the mediation service?
If eligible, Legal Aid assistance is available for mediation and we have a contract to offer legally-aided mediation
Experience indicates that mediation represents a considerable cost saving than traditional court proceedings where each party has their own solicitor.
Each meeting last around 1 to 1½ hours, and the number of meetings required will depend on the complexity and nature of the issues and the pace the parties wish to proceed at. On average, 3 – 6 meetings are required to deal with most issues.
If you are not eligible for Legal Aid, charges are payable after each session and can be shared by you and your ex-partner in a way you both agree.
Who is a mediator?
Our mediators are qualified and practising solicitors who understand the law as well as being trained as mediators.
We cover Portsmouth, Havant, Chichester, Southampton, Petersfield and surrounding areas, and beyond.
For more information or to arrange an appointment please contact Samantha Lee about our Mediation service.
Call Freephone 0800 0351 999.
