Mediation is an alternative way for couples to deal with the issues that arise on separation and divorce. The principle of mediation is that a neutral third party helps the couple to a negotiated settlement. It is often a cheaper, quicker and less antagonistic process which can benefit the whole family.
How does Mediation work?
Couples who have decided to divorce or separate work together with their mediator to try and resolve the issues. The mediator is highly trained and impartial; he or she does not take sides and is non-judgemental. The mediator works with and for you both in helping you to reach agreement in a non-adversarial environment. Meetings with the mediator take place with both of you in the same room, on neutral ground. Everything discussed with the mediator is confidential.
You and your mediator sit down together and try to work out a Memorandum of Understanding which covers all the issues such as what will happen to the family home, where the children will live, how they spend time with each parent, and a financial settlement. Lines of communication are established and you take control over decision-making, over your own lives and your children’s future. You will be encouraged to focus on your futures and to look forward to developing new and separate lives. The aim is to reach decisions in a constructive, dignified and non-adversarial way.
The first step in Mediation
You must both agree to give mediation a try. You do not have to be on the best of terms with your partner for this process to work, but you do at least need to be able to communicate. You must both be prepared to disclose your financial situation fully and frankly, and you must be committed to resolving issues constructively and be prepared to compromise.
At Barlow Robbins, our mediators are experienced Family lawyers and can help you to reach a settlement which the Court will endorse.
Candida Purser qualified as an Advanced Mediator with the Association of Lawyer Mediators. She is a member of Family Mediators Association (FMA), Resolution and the Law Society’s Family Law Panel.
Karen Barham is a Consultant with Barlow Robbins LLP specialising exclusively in family mediation. She is currently Chair of Resolution Surrey.
If you and your partner are interested in mediation, please telephone our Godalming office (telephone 01483 417121) and we will send you more information.
Alternatively, you can complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
