Online mediation
What is online mediation?
Mediating through online platforms has never been more convenient or secure. With options including Zoom, WhatsApp video, Teams, or Google Meets, you can access online family mediation from the comfort of your home or office. Online mediation for family matters is especially ideal when conflict levels are high, preventing face-to-face interaction, as mediators can seamlessly facilitate discussions between participants without direct contact.
How does online mediation work?
Online divorce mediation works by utilising digital communication tools to facilitate a structured negotiation between disputing participants, guided by a trained mediator.
Direct Mediation Services is very keen on embracing new technologies and has already conducted Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) by WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet and FaceTime for over 6 years. We understand that people have less time and therefore this can be the most effective way of carrying out mediation quickly. Also, this approach may be beneficial for people living at a distance from one another, or in some circumstances where one person has moved or is working abroad.
You can apply for mediation online on our website using Calendly, which is useful for some clients, as they can make their appointment without speaking to anyone. They just choose the date and time that suits them, and then make payment by credit or debit card.
Book an online MIAM
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.
Benefits of online family mediation services
Online mediation services for divorce or family disputes offer several benefits that make them an attractive option, especially in situations where face-to-face meetings are not feasible or preferred. Here are some key advantages:
No need to travel
Participants can join online divorce mediatikn sessions from anywhere, eliminating the need for travel. This is particularly beneficial for participants who live far apart or have busy schedules.
Flexible scheduling
Online platforms often allow for more flexible scheduling of sessions. This can help all participants find times that work best for them, potentially speeding up the resolution process.
Reduced costs
Reduced costs by eliminating the need for physical meeting spaces and travel. Online mediation service can be less expensive than traditional in-person mediation.
From the comfort of home
Participants can participate from the comfort of their own homes or a private space, which can reduce stress and help them feel more at ease during discussions.
Improved accesibility
Online family mediation is more accessible for individuals with mobility issues or those who live in remote areas where mediation services are not readily available.
Useful digital tools
Digital platforms used for online mediation can offer useful tools such as document sharing, real-time editing, and secure communication channels, which can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the mediation process.
Booking online mediation with Direct Mediation Services provides a practical, cost-effective, and accessible alternative to traditional mediation, whilst maintaining the confidentiality and voluntary nature of the process.
Questions about Online Mediation
Is online mediation different from in person?
No. We will take you through the same mediation process and I will ask the same questions.
Online mediation gives better accessibility, especially for people who have mobility issues. Also, many people feel more confident and relaxed in their own homes during an online mediation, and this helps.
How can a MIAM for family mediation help me?
- Provides information about the mediation process and what to expect.
- Assesses whether mediation is a suitable option for your specific situation.
- Offers an opportunity to discuss your concerns and goals in a confidential setting.
- Helps you understand the benefits and limitations of mediation compared to other dispute resolution methods.
- Allows you to ask questions and seek clarification about the mediation process.
- Empowers you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with mediation.
- Provides guidance on next steps and resources available to support you in resolving your family dispute.
Do I need to download an app or program to do online mediation?
In Direct Mediation Services use WhatsApp, as it is encrypted and most mobiles have it pre-installed on them. Another bonus is that most people use WhatsApp nearly every day and are familiar with the app, unlike Zoom. This is perfect for online face-to-face family mediation.
How can you do face-to-face mediation online?
It is very easy and there is nothing to worry about. All you need to do is answer the call and the mediator will add your ex-partner if your mediation is using WhatsApp. If you want to keep your number private, please make sure your mediator knows, so that another program can be used. In these circumstances, Zoom would be used.
I am worried that my ex will not be alone when he has online mediation?
This concerns many people. What happens if my ex has their new partner in the room, but just out of camera shot? The mediator explains at the beginning of the session that only they are allowed in the room they are calling from. He or she will ask each person to show the room that they are in and this can be done at any time during the mediation
If the mediator suspects that someone has entered either person’s room, the mediation will be paused or stopped.
Is online mediation safe?
Online mediation allows you to keep your address private and the risk of intimidation is less. You are always in control and can finish the call with a press of a button. On a technological level, we only use digital platforms that are encrypted, which ensures your safety.
Can I record the online mediation on my phone?
No! Many people ask this, because they don’t want to forget what is happening. However, the mediator will be taking notes throughout the session, which you will receive a few days after. The Agreement to Mediate, which will be sent to you for reading, clearly states that you cannot record the session in anyway. If you are found to be recording it, the mediator will terminate the session immediately and will issue the mediation certificate. All discussions in mediation are legally privileged, so no one can refer to anything said in mediation during a court case.
How quickly can I get an online mediation appointment?
Online appointments are much quicker than an appointment at one of our venues. We have over 80 accredited mediators near me in our network and as a result, we can give you an appointment generally on the same day that you call. Our office is open Monday to Friday from 08:30 until 17:30 and appointments are available from 07:00 until 19:00.
How will I receive my session record?
Your mediation session record will be sent by email only. The email provider we use is Gmail. Gmail uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) to automatically encrypt incoming and outgoing emails. This is how we ensure the security of the documents we send. The document is normally sent in Word. If you do not have Word, please let your mediator know and they will ensure that a PDF is sent instead.
Will you make sure that my ex does not see my email address?
Yes, we will always ensure that your email addresses are not disclosed. The mediator and our admin team will generally email both of you at the same time, but you will be blind copied into the email, so there is no risk of your email address being disclosed by accident.
How do I sign documents such as the Agreement to Mediate online?
This is done through a program called Dropbox Sign. If you have an email address, the admin team or the mediator will send you an email. If you don’t have an email address, we can send a link to your mobile phone (as long as you can access the Internet) and you can also complete there. If you don’t have access to either of these, we can send it to you in the post. The document will contain a stamped addressed envelope for you to post it back to our office.
Can my children be with me when I am doing online mediation?
If you are a full-time parent, it can be difficult to have an hour free to do your mediation. We generally ask parents to try and find a friend, neighbour, or family member to be with the children. This allows you to concentrate on trying to find a solution to the problems that you and your ex are facing. Mediation is for adults only and the subject content is not suitable for children. By ensuring that your children cannot hear, you are protecting them emotionally.
Can I book my appointment online mediation?
At Direct Mediation Services you can book your appointment via our website. There is a large button saying “Book Now” at the top right of the site. It will take you to our booking system, Calendly, which is easy to use. You will choose the service you want, the date and time of your appointment and be invited to make payment by credit or debit card. After this, you will be sent a receipt and confirmation of your appointment by email. Naturally, you can call our helpline and book your appointment if you don’t have access to the internet or don’t like making credit card payments online.
