What is mediation?
Mediation is designed to encourage constructive discussion and assist couples to resolve conflict. You will actively participate in finding solutions that are focused on what is important to you and your family. This is done through face to face meetings with a mediator.
Mediation is an alternative to court proceedings, is confidential, and is voluntary. Instead of your fate being in the hands of a judge, you jointly work out an agreement that you can live with and can be upheld in a court of law.
Mediators are trained professionals and are impartial. We do not give legal advice. We work differently from solicitors. We will provide legal information throughout the process to aid your discussions. As your mediator I will explore options with you and encourage dialogue to help clarify issues and ‘reality test’ your proposals.
Who is mediation for?
Mediation is appropriate for you if conflict has arisen within your family and you wish to resolve matters peaceably without litigation.
Family mediation is useful not only in times of conflict, it can be used to help you plan for a life together. I can guide you through the considerations around finances and children, such as pre-nuptial agreements, donor conception agreements, or living together agreements.
Why choose mediation?
With many years of experience as a family lawyer dealing with resolution of disputes through the court system, I have first hand experience of how this affects people. Separation and divorce is a difficult and emotionally challenging time. Court proceedings are stressful, emotionally costly, financially crippling and time consuming.
I feel strongly that there is a better way to resolve things and this forms the bedrock of my Mediation Works service. I aim to provide the right space and calm environment to help people in dispute find solutions and to help people make good and lasting future arrangements.
Mediation is:
- Quicker and cheaper than litigation
- Less stressful for you
- Easier for your children
The benefits of mediation:
- You decide what is best for you and your family
- You retain control rather than leaving it up to a judge
- Improved communication