Frequently Asked Questions
Is the purpose of mediation to help us get back together?
No. Family mediation is for couples who are separated, or in the process of separating or divorcing. It offers you the opportunity to talk about, manage and resolve issues arising from the breakdown of your relationship.
Do I have to be represented by a solicitor to go through mediation?
No. Many people decide to come to mediation to avoid seeing a solicitor because it offers a quicker and more cost-effective solution to their concerns, worries or issues. Simply call us and we will call you back.
Do Mediators give legal advice?
No, we do not give legal advice.
How can I find out more about mediation?
The Mediation People offer a phone call with no charge, up to 15 minutes, for you to ask any questions you may have and to get clarification about how the process works and its benefits.
Before committing to the mediation process, you are invited to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MAIM). This can take place via the internet call or with a face to face meeting.
My solicitor referred me for mediation what do I do?
Choose a Mediator we are only a phone call away and the initial phone call has no charge. During this call we will explain how mediation works.
This will be followed by an information gathering meeting known as a MIAM. As mediation is a voluntary process you or your partner may decide that it is not right for you. If this is the case, you may request a FM1 (C100) form. This form confirms to the court, if proceedings are to be commenced, that you have attempted mediation but for whatever reason it has broken down.
How long will the mediation process take?
When we receive the initial referral, we will speak to you both at the earliest opportunity. If either of you are not willing to mediate then we will provide the FM1 (C100), subject to payment for the initial meeting, to you or your solicitor. If you are both willing to mediate we will assess whether the other party will need to attend an information meeting (MIAM) and if appropriate we will arrange this as soon as possible.
Mediation will then be arranged as soon as possible, subject to your availability. Any further mediation sessions will be arranged at a timescale to suit both of you and the mediator. Each joint mediation session lasts between 1 ½. Each case is different, but the usual amount of joint sessions is between 1 and 3 depending on the complexity of your situation.
Can I telephone the mediator outside of the mediation sessions to raise issues / ask questions?
Ideally no. Mediators are there to help you both and need to remain impartial. Anything that is disclosed to the mediator outside of the joint mediation meetings will need to be discussed with the other party to enable the mediation to continue.
However, if you want to change an appointment or to share information requested then please feel free to give us a call.
Is the outcome legally binding?
No, but the summary prepared by Tracie can be given to your solicitor to be incorporated into a Consent Order or a legally binding agreement.
How much will it cost?
Please refer to our Fees page for full details of the costs of mediation. It will differ according to how far the process goes and if there are family and financial arrangements to be addressed.
Where will the mediation sessions take place?
The Mediation People have the benefit of working from different locations. Tracie works across Herts, Beds and Bucks coverings areas such as Leighton Buzzard, Aylesbury, Milton Keynes, Amersham, Tring, High Wycombe and the surrounding villages.
Debbie works across Warwickshire covering Coventry, Nuneaton, Tamworth and the surrounding area and villages. We are therefore able to arrange the mediation sessions at locations that are convenient to you both.
Is Mediation Confidential?
Yes, however, if you or any other person is at risk of serious harm we may be obliged to notify the relevant authorities. Mediators also have a legal obligation to report any suspected fraud, such as benefit fraud, tax evasion, undeclared income or money laundering.
Start your mediation journey
We can help you reach an amicable decision and move on to a better place in your lives.
