Direct Mediation Services

Turning family dispute into resolution

Family mediation

Our family mediation service offers the expertise of our family mediators, who bring extensive experience to assist you with matters concerning mediation for children, pets, property, and finances. Mediation empowers you to maintain a significant level of autonomy in decision-making. Unlike the court process, family mediation is known for its speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

family mediation

Marriage separation

No matter how challenging the situation is, we are here to assist you in in bringing about conversation that support finding a resolution with our family mediators.

mediation for children

Mediation for children

Our professional family mediators will listen to both participants, taking into account your needs and those of your children in an empathetic and pragmatic way.

marriage separation

Pets in family mediation

In a family mediation service, we understand that pets are equally part of the family and our mediators will help you find a way forward.

national family mediation uk

Financial agreement

Through national family mediation in UK we can help you find the best way forward regarding your family home, pensions, and investments.

Family mediation frequently asked questions

A consent order in family law formalizes agreements reached between disputing parties in divorce or child custody matters. It records terms like asset division, child custody, support obligations, and spousal maintenance. After mutual agreement, it’s submitted to court for approval, and once deemed fair and in children’s best interests, a court order is issued, making the agreements legally binding. Consent orders in family mediation offer clarity and protection, ensuring a structured resolution and legal enforcement

Is a legal document that details the division of assets, liabilities, income, and financial resources between divorcing spouses. It formalizes agreements reached between the parties or specifies how finances will be divided if no agreement is reached. Key components include the division of assets (property, savings, investments, etc.), financial support (spousal and child maintenance), division of debts and liabilities, and provisions for pensions. Once issued and legally binding, the financial order provides closure to the financial aspects of the divorce, minimizing future disputes. Full disclosure of financial circumstances from both parties is typically required for family mediation and the court to make informed decisions.

Is a legal document that details the division of assets, liabilities, income, and financial resources between divorcing spouses. It formalizes agreements reached between the parties or specifies how finances will be divided if no agreement is reached. Key components include the division of assets (property, savings, investments, etc.), financial support (spousal and child maintenance), division of debts and liabilities, and provisions for pensions. Once issued and legally binding, the financial order provides closure to the financial aspects of the divorce, minimizing future disputes. Full disclosure of financial circumstances from both parties is typically required for family mediation services and the court to make informed decisions.

A Child Arrangement Order (CAO) is a legal document issued by a UK family court that dictates care arrangements for a child, including residence, contact, and specific upbringing matters like education or healthcare. It’s obtained through court, either by agreement or decision, and can be sought by parents, guardians, or others with parental responsibility. Unlike parental responsibility, which isn’t always granted, a CAO focuses on practical care arrangements. While providing clarity and reducing conflicts, all parties must prioritize the child’s best interests and adhere to the CAO’s terms for the child’s well-being and stability.

In the UK, grandparents do not have an automatic legal right to visit their grandchildren, but they can seek court permission if denied access. Initially, family mediation services is encouraged to resolve disputes amicably, allowing parties to discuss concerns and potentially reach an agreement with a neutral mediator’s assistance. Should mediation fail, grandparents can pursue a Child Arrangement Order (CAO) through family court to secure contact. The court considers various factors, including the nature of the relationship, reasons for denial, child’s wishes, and parental responsibility, prioritizing the child’s welfare. Legal action involves applying to the family court, where decisions are made based on the child’s best interests. Although not automatic, grandparents may obtain contact rights through legal channels if deemed beneficial for the child.

Seeking custody of a child involves navigating a legal process that varies by jurisdiction. Key steps include understanding custody types, seeking legal advice, and considering negotiation or mediation before court in our family mediation services. If needed, filing a custody petition, attending court hearings, and complying with court orders are crucial. Child custody evaluations may be ordered, and ongoing legal assistance is recommended.

Child maintenance is financial support provided by one parent to the other for the benefit of their child post-separation or divorce. It covers everyday expenses like food, housing, education, and healthcare, aiming to share the financial responsibility for upbringing. Parents typically have a legal obligation to support their children regardless of relationship status. Payments are often based on the paying parent’s income, number of children, and special circumstances. Arrangements can be voluntary, mediated, or formalized through agreements or court orders, with government agencies sometimes involved. Enforcement measures ensure compliance, and arrangements may be reviewed periodically to accommodate changes.

In divorce proceedings, determining pet custody can be contentious as pets are considered property rather than children under the law. Ownership prior to marriage usually dictates custody, but joint ownership complicates matters, often leading to negotiation or mediation. Couples may include pet custody provisions in settlement agreements, considering factors like primary caregiver and pet welfare. Litigation is an option if agreements cannot be reached, though it can be costly and unpredictable. Ultimately, pet custody resolution in divorce and family mediation hinges on individual circumstances and willingness to negotiate or seek alternative dispute resolution.

Book an online MIAM

Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00

We offer an online MIAM appointment within 48 hours of booking, or even sooner. This includes options for scheduling during lunch breaks or before your children need to be picked up from school.

Book a fast track MIAM

Same day and/or out of office hours

We recognize the urgency sometimes associated with obtaining the MIAM certificate promptly for court application purposes. Hence, we provide an express service to cater to such needs in only one hour.

Can I get Legal Aid for family mediation?

Legal Aid for family mediation offers financial assistance to eligible individuals, enabling them to access mediation services for family disputes without incurring significant costs. Through this program, individuals facing financial constraints can receive support to navigate and resolve their family issues effectively. By covering the costs of accredited family mediators, Legal Aid ensures that everyone has access to the necessary resources for constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution, promoting fairness and accessibility within the legal system.

Legal Aid for family mediation is available to individuals who meet certain financial criteria set by the Legal Aid Agency. Eligibility takes into account factors such as specific benefits, income, assets, household expenses, and the merits of the case. 

If you qualify for Legal Aid you will receive your mediation at no cost. If you receive Legal Aid and your ex-partner does not, there is also partial funding available for them. You can talk to one of our team to see if you qualify.

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