Family Mediation is an alternative method of resolving disputes. It involves a series of confidential sessions between clients (typically a separating or separated couple) and the mediator who is a neutral third party.
Sessions are designed to discuss and find solutions to the numerous issues that arise on the breakdown of a relationship or marriage. If there are children, they are the priority and are therefore put at the fore-front of any discussions.
Other issues which can be discussed are the divorce proceedings, separation of finances and property, improving communication and co-parenting arrangements.
The mediation process is managed carefully. After an initial assessment meeting with both clients, we will arrange the first joint session.
In that session, we will discuss and narrow the issues that need to be addressed. It may take 1 session or 4-5 sessions depending on the range and complexity of the issues that you need to resolve. At the end of each session, I will provide a summary of what we have discussed.
When the final session has concluded, I will prepare a clear and detailed document called a Memorandum of Understanding which will record what has been agreed between you. If a division of the finances has been considered I will also produce and an Open Financial Statement summarising the financial disclosure information. The drafting of final documents is charged at my hourly rate.
CHILD INCLUSIVE MEDIATION
Children can benefit from having an opportunity to share their worries and concerns when their parents are separating. They can often have mixed feelings and not wish to share them directly with their parents for fear of upsetting them.
It can be helpful for parents to understand the child’s perspective when finding solutions that could work best for the whole family.
I am specially trained to speak to children about their wishes and feelings without the pressure of feeling that they are responsible for any decision making (that is the role of the parents) or feeling that they have to take sides.
Should the parents and the child agree that I should meet with the child this is done in a carefully managed, gentle and reassuring process.
More information on child inclusive mediation can be found here.
