Family mediation is a structured, confidential process designed to help separating couples and families resolve disputes without going to court. A family mediator acts as a neutral third party, guiding participants through discussions around key issues such as child arrangements, financial settlements, and communication breakdowns following a separation or divorce.
Our experienced divorce mediation specialists offer a supportive and professional environment to help families reach practical, long-lasting agreements. Whether you're navigating child custody mediation, dividing assets, or exploring non-court dispute resolution options, mediation can be a cost-effective and less adversarial alternative to litigation.
The process begins with a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), which is a legal requirement before most family court applications in England. During the first individual meeting, the mediator will explain the process, answer any questions or concerns, and assess whether it’s suitable for your situation. MIAMs typically last around 60 minutes and can be held in person at our offices or remotely via Microsoft Teams.
If mediation is suitable, the next step is to arrange a joint session, where the mediator will be present, along with both participants. In some cases, the participants prefer not to see one another, therefore the session may take place on a shuttle basis, either remotely or in person. Shuttle mediation means that the mediator will speak to both parties privately, ensuring no contact between them. Generally, at least two to three sessions will be required.
We also offer hybrid mediation, which can include solicitors, or other specialist professionals such as accountants, or financial advisors to assist in the mediation process. When appropriate, we can invite the participants solicitors to attend a part of the mediation sessions, to enable any agreement to be drawn up and concluded, without delay, or to assist offering legal advice along the way.
Mediation specialist Lucy Adams from our Teesside office in Stockton-on-Tees explains more.