Mediation

Mediation brings families together through guided conversation, understanding and practical solutions which will lead to lasting agreement.

Constructive resolution

Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that helps families resolve disputes constructively. With the support of our solicitor mediator, couples can communicate openly, explore options together and reach practical agreements arising from their separation, in respect of the finances or the arrangements for children.

Close up of a hand shake in a modern clean meeting room.

Understanding the family mediation process

Family mediation is a structured and confidential process. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions but will guide the conversation to ensure everyone is heard and understood.

The process usually begins with an individual assessment meeting, where the mediator explains how mediation works and checks that it is suitable for everyone involved. If everyone agrees to proceed, joint sessions are then arranged. During these sessions, each person can share their concerns, needs and priorities in a safe and respectful environment.

The mediator will help clarify the issues, manage emotions and keep discussions focused on practical solutions rather than past conflicts. Options are explored with an emphasis on fairness and the best interests of any children involved. When agreements are reached, the mediator will record them in a clear, structured summary. These agreements can then be reviewed independently and, if needed, made legally binding.

Family mediation is flexible, cost-effective, and focused on cooperation. It empowers families to make their own decisions and supports more positive long-term relationships.

What to expect

In family mediation, you can expect a calm, structured and confidential process focused on helping everyone communicate and reach workable solutions. Here’s what typically happens:

Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)

Firstly, there is a private session where the mediator will individually explain the process, check suitability and discuss your concerns and goals.

Joint mediation sessions

If mediation proceeds, everyone meets together (or sometimes separately in the same session known as shuttle mediation). You’ll discuss key issues which could be parenting arrangements, finances or communication challenges.

Guided discussion and problem-solving

The mediator helps clarify issues, manage emotions and keeps the conversation focused on the future. Together you will work towards practical, mutually acceptable solutions.

We can also offer Integrated Mediation which is particularly suited for high-conflict and complex cases. This allows other professionals to be involved to offer advice and support, such as lawyers and divorce coaches.

Focus on children and wellbeing

When children are involved, their needs and best interests remain central to the discussions. Child Inclusive Mediation can also be offered where appropriate. This means the mediator can also speak to the children.

Outcome

Any agreements reached are written up clearly. While mediation itself is not legally binding, the agreement reached can be reviewed by solicitors and made formal if necessary.

Our commitments to you

Our team of experienced family solicitors are ready to help you.

We look after you

We understand that you’re going through a tough time, and we’re here to support you through it.

Our lawyers are available to talk to you whenever you need it.

We keep you informed

It can be stressful waiting for information.

We don’t keep you waiting. As soon as we have progress, we let you know straight away.

We help you understand

Legal matters can be complex.

We’ll explain everything to you and guide you through the process so that you know what’s happening.

Our process

Our team of experienced family solicitors are ready to help you.

1.

Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

2.

Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

3.

Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

4.

Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

5.

Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

Fees

  • MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment meeting) form – required in most cases to either asses your suitability for mediation or when considering a Court application.

    £168 each (including VAT)

  • Joint session (1 hour and a half). Each case is different but on average couples require 2 to 3 sessions for children and the same for finance.

    Each session will require payment to be made in advance.

    £288 (including VAT)

  • For financial cases, separate preparation is required.

    We will need to have evidence of your financial circumstances to create a financial summary. This will cost £240 inclusive of VAT per hour each. This document is usually prepared before the second session.

    Following the last session, we will need to draft either a Memorandum of Understanding or Open Financial Statement which will cost £240 inclusive of VAT per hour each.

    £240 each per hour (including VAT)

Testimonials

“In all aspects of the issues that occurred we couldn’t have asked for better service And would highly recommend her to anyone seeking or requiring legal advice or services in any and all matters.”

CarlaSeptember 2025

“Louise, I can’t thank you enough. What felt like such a stressful, overwhelming process became manageable with your support. You were clear, reassuring, and always on my side. You achieved the result I had been hoping for and that’s been a huge relief!”

AnonymousJune 2025

“From my first telephone call, Alison provided an excellent service, going beyond what I expected. It was a very difficult, stressful time and her understanding and reassurance eased my concerns. Alison is a great listener and provides very clear explanations of options, implications and likely outcomes, which was so important for someone like me, without any experience on legal matters. Above all, Alison was always there for when I needed legal advice, responding promptly to my many queries and giving me the encouragement that I needed towards achieving a satisfactory settlement. With her invaluable help and empathy that objective was achieved.”

AnonymousMarch 2025
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