Help With Mediation for Divorce and Separation
Family Mediation in Hampshire and Dorset
Are You Separating? Divorcing? Are You Worried About Your Children Finances and Property?
Save time and money: resolve your differences without going to court with a Divorce Mediator
" With Michael's help, we were able to begin a much calmer discussion about how to separate, the practical issues of who lived where and communicating with the children, and some ground rules in the early stages ......."
Because it is more direct than dealing through divorce lawyers family mediation is usually a lot cheaper than only using divorce solicitors.
" Family disputes that are resolved through mediation can be cheaper,quicker and according to academic research, less acrimonious than those, which are settled through the courts." ( Legal Services Commission)
What is Family Mediation?
Family mediation is an alternative private way in which an independent person, known as a family mediator, helps separating or divorcing couples learn to communicate better and reach solutions to some or all of their issues relating to separation, divorce, finances, property or children.
Why use a Family Mediator?
- It is private
- It is voluntary
- It is usually faster and cheaper than going to court
- You are in charge of the outcome
- It is flexible so you can have tailor-made solutions
- It is an informal process
- Your legal rights are not affected
- You can use family mediation at any time; even after court proceedings have started
- It is better for your children if you can work together to make your own arrangements
What can Family Mediation be used for?
- Options for ending or maintaining the relationship and the consequences of doing so
- With whom the children are to live
- What contact they are to have with each parent and any other person such as grandparents rights
- Any other matters relating to parenting for example, arrangements for holidays and what school the children are to go to
- What is to happen to the home and any other property or assets
- What financial support, if any, is to be paid for the children and/or adults
- Similar issues between same-sex couples
- Anything else you want to resolve in connection with any breakdown in relationships
- How to deal with any future changes that become necessary to these arrangements
What do clients say about Family Mediation ?
" With Michael's help, we were able to begin a much calmer discussion about how to separate, the practical issues of who lived where and communicating with the children, and some ground rules in the early stages of the process. We also drew up an outline of our finances, which was important in breaking down barriers and building trust between us.
The progress we made with Michael gave us a framework for our issues, and helped us put some of the strong emotions aside, and after the first meeting we found it easier to talk outside the meetings too. It was a very positive experience for us both, at a very difficult time"
Ben and Elin South London ( names changed to protect privacy)
"I have been wanting to say a very big thank you for all the help you gave us during those traumatic months last year. I personally benefited greatly from your support during my discussions with Mark, as I felt able to speak my mind in an environment where I was not alone or intimidated. Our personal situation is greatly improved, we are all able to work together more, and apart from some small changes, the arrangements regarding James and Harry remain the same. Both boys are doing well. Although I still find communication with Mark rather exhausting! We just about manage to stick to the guidelines set up during mediation and I feel he listens to and respects my opinions much more than he used to. Hopefully he finds me easier to deal with too! "
Helen from Dorset (names changed to protect privacy)