The Mediation Process

Following your initial enquiry I will usually meet with both you and your former partner separately for a preliminary intake meeting.  These meetings can be held in person or remotely, and usually take around one hour each.  They give you the opportunity to explain your situation in full and find out more about the mediation process.  You will have the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.  We will also discuss whether mediation is indeed appropriate for you and, if not, what other options might be available, including solicitor negotiation and arbitration.

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This intake meeting is confidential and nothing will be reported to your former partner unless you expressly agree. 

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It is distinct from a “MIAM” (a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) which is a requirement in circumstances where there is an immediate intention to issue court proceedings. A MIAM needs to conducted by an accredited mediator, a list of whom can be found in the “Find a Mediator” section on the Family Mediation Council’s website.

After the initial intake meetings, if both you and your former partner agree to mediate, we will together arrange your first joint mediation session.  From that point, all subsequent sessions and communications will be with you both. 

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All meetings can be held in person or remotely.

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You will likely attend a number of joint mediation sessions.  I will guide you through the process from start to finish, helping you with your financial disclosure, and addressing the practical and financial issues between you both, as well as the arrangements for any children.

 

You can consult your solicitor if you have one at any time during the mediation process.  If agreed, I can also update your solicitors as the mediation progresses.

If you are able to reach agreement through the mediation process, I will prepare an "Open Financial Statement" on your behalf.  This is a document recording the financial disclosure made by you both during the mediation process.

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I will in addition prepare a "Memorandum of Understanding", which is a document confirming your proposals for the settlement of the financial issues between you and your former partner, and will enable your solicitors to draft Minutes of Agreement and, if appropriate, obtain a Consent Order.

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With regards to any children of the family, the way in which you and your former partner adapt to living apart and managing communication with each other, will impact your children's experience of the family separation.  In order to manage this transition, I will work with you to prepare a Parenting Plan that addresses your children's emotional and practical requirements, ensuring they maintain healthy relationships with both parents.