Family mediation is a process where families work with a neutral mediator to negotiate their separation and divorce settlements. It may involve parenting arrangements, Schedule 1 matters (financial negotiations) and other issues that arise from separation or divorce.

Family mediation can take place online or face to face and is usually less expensive than a trial. It is also quicker and more flexible.

It is less expensive

Many people find that Family mediation is far less expensive than going to court. It is also far quicker and more flexible than the process of litigating a case in court. In addition, mediation is typically far less stressful than a trial.

During your sessions, you and your spouse can meet with your mediator at times that work best for you and your schedules. You can also prepare for your session by gathering information and documents that pertain to your dispute. For example, if your dispute involves division of property, you may want to bring financial statements or credit card and loan information.

As with any mediation, it’s important to be prepared to compromise. If you enter the mediation with a “my way or the highway” mentality, it’s unlikely that you’ll reach an agreement. If you and your spouse can come up with a solution that suits both parties, you’ll have an agreement that you can use for years to come.

It is less stressful

Family mediation is far less stressful than fighting in Court. In mediation sessions, parents discuss issues and find solutions that are mutually acceptable. The process can be completed in a shorter time frame and is much less distressing. In addition, it is cheaper and less costly than litigation.

In addition, mediation is child-focused and places a strong emphasis on protecting children from the conflict associated with separation or divorce. Mediators encourage parents to find creative solutions that will suit their situation. They also encourage cooperation and open communication between parents. This can help reduce tension between the parties and promote a more positive parenting relationship.

Longitudinal research suggests that mediation is more effective in the longer term than litigation. However, the success of a mediation depends on many different factors. The key to success is the quality of the mediator and the willingness of the participants to compromise. Also, it is important to remember that mediation does not provide legal advice.

It is more flexible

Family mediation is a less expensive and more flexible process than litigation. A trial can take months or years, but mediation sessions can usually be arranged to fit around the parties’ schedules. The flexibility of the mediation process also allows both parties to brainstorm resolutions and communicate in a safe environment. The process can help to promote a shift in the pattern of behaviour from within the family system.

Mediators are often able to identify non-legal issues that are at the heart of family disputes, which can be difficult to discuss in court. The parties may then negotiate possible solutions, which can be drafted as a legally binding agreement that the judge will sign as an order.

However, agreements reached in mediation are not automatically legally binding and can be changed as the circumstances change. It is still advisable to seek legal advice on any agreement before it becomes legally binding. This is especially important if children are involved, as the agreement must be in the best interests of the child.

It is more convenient

The family mediation process is less time consuming than taking the matter to court. You and your ex-partner can pre-determine dates and choose the times that work best for you. This is much more convenient than waiting for months to get a court date.

Additionally, you can decide to spend extra time on a specific issue in a session. It is also possible to arrange to meet outside of sessions to collate monetary disclosure or consider the suggestions made by the mediator.

Nevertheless, you should be aware that family mediation cannot replace your lawyer’s advice or representation. This is because the role of a solicitor is to provide you with legal advice and representation, which are not available in mediation. Hence, it is crucial to bring all the relevant paperwork and pre-written notes to the mediation session to ensure you make the most progress from it. You should also prepare for the sessions by considering what you want to say and preparing questions you may have.https://carlisle.lakesmediation.co.uk/