Mediation works because:
- We are specialists. Family Matters was set up to provide the highest quality mediation. We are a dedicated mediation service. Our mediators are experienced in dealing with people who are separating or divorcing and we have specialists in child mediation and child consultation.
- Mediation costs less than cases settled through court. The National Audit Office latest figures – which are from 2007 – say that, on average, a mediated case cost £752 compared to £1,682 in cases where mediation wasn’t used. In our area, a contested case going to court using solicitors costs around £5,000 – £7,000, whereas a mediated case can costs around £500.
- Quicker than the traditional separation or divorce route. The average time for a court case to be completed in 435 days. Mediated cases take around 110 days
- There is Legal aid for mediation. This means the government will pay the cost of your mediation. Before you start your case, Family Matters will assess your income to see if you are eligible for legal aid. If only one person is assessed as being eligible for legal aid, both people will receive funding for their individual meeting and first mediation session. Find out more about mediation costs.
- You are in control. Deciding the pace and direction of the discussions. You decide on which agreements meet your needs and your children’s needs rather than having a court impose those decisions . You can decide which financial arrangements will suit your own individual circumstances and make plans that take account of your future needs.
- It’s about you and what you want for your future and the future of the children. Mediators undertake a complete assessment at your individual meeting. You can bring a friend to this meeting if you are worried about coming on your own.
- Mediation is safe. We will listen to your concerns and worries in your first individual meeting. If you feel anxious or unsafe being in the same online meeting room as your ex-partner, we can discuss ways for this to be managed so you feel safe whilst you are taking part in mediation.
- Stress and conflict is reduced and is more constructive than going to court. Discussing and making decisions about your children and your financial future are stressful and it’s hard to think clearly. In court proceedings, conversations become heated, blocking your ability to talk things through and come to solutions that will work for you and your children in the future.
- Your children can be listened to and consulted in the decision-making about their own future using child mediation.
- Mediation is private and confidential. Mediators will not disclose any discussions they have with you to anyone else. It is privileged: this means the discussions you have cannot be taken to court without your agreements. When you reach agreement, the decisions you make can be written up by a solicitor and made into a legally binding order.
- It’s creative and informative finding solutions that will work to be agreed, we have access to a wide variety of local resources and can refer you to other specialists for help and support.
- It is forward-focused, concentrating on what can be done now and in the future to keep things working.
- Mediation is flexible and modern. It works around you and your schedule
- Mediation is neutral. Expert mediators are there to listen and are non-judgemental allowing the best ideas to be heard.
