Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that helps families work out their issues without going to court.
It can help to resolve a wide range of family disputes but is most used to help separating couples reach agreement on arrangements for children, property and finances.
Family mediation provides a non-confrontational environment where parties work together alongside an independent, professional third-party (the mediator) to reach mutually beneficial solutions. If one party feels uncomfortable being in the same room as the other, then the mediator will offer separate rooms to put you at ease.
Mediation can be extremely helpful in family law matters and has various advantages over the litigation process.
Some of the benefits of mediation in family law include:
- It’s cheaper. Mediation is significantly cheaper than going to court and is one of the most cost-effective ways to resolve disputes. While separating couples should still take legal advice from an experienced family solicitor, any legal fees incurred will be substantially lower than trying to resolve an issue through the courts.
- It’s faster. Family mediation is much quicker than the litigation process. It typically takes couples an average of four mediation sessions to reach agreement on their issues, while it can take up to two years for a case to be heard by a court.
- It reduces conflict. Mediation promotes a collaborative approach to resolving disputes by encouraging parties to work together and reach an agreement that is acceptable to them both. A family mediator acts as a facilitator to discussions and ensures conversations stay on track.
- It’s less stressful. Taking an ex-partner to court is highly emotional and distressing for everyone involved. Family mediation is voluntary, and it is in both parties’ best interests to work together to agree on appropriate solutions.
- Couples stay in control. Going down the litigation route means that couples have decisions imposed on them by a judge. Family mediation means couples retain the power to make decisions for themselves, which also results in better outcomes.
Family Law Solicitors Near Me
Our experienced team of family solicitors at Berlad Graham LLP advises individuals and families on matrimonial, finance and child law, and are committed to delivering excellent standards of service in an empathetic and caring way.
We are members of Resolution’s Specialist Accreditation Scheme and the Law Society’s Family Law Advanced Panel. Our specialist family law solicitors are committed to providing the highest levels of practical assistance to achieve a positive outcome that is sustainable for all the family.
If you have a query relating to family law and want to speak to one of our solicitors, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call our team on 0330 175 5655 or enquire online.
