“Mediation is often more cost effective and quicker to the user than going to court, and is a flexible process that can be used to settle disputes in a whole range of situations. It is also an excellent preventative tool and can be used effectively to stop problems escalating and becoming worse.”
hmcourts-service.gov.uk
A mediator is an independent, impartial negotiator working to find an acceptable, practical, fair and reasonable agreement, following real involvement and input from the parties in dispute.
Unlike solicitors, who act for one side only, mediators talk to both sides and work for the benefit of the whole family. The mediation process is non-confrontational and less stressful than the traditional route.
Through a series of meetings with the husband and wife, separately or together, the mediator develops a clear understanding of the feelings, wishes, hopes and fears of both parties.
The mediator will gather all the relevant financial information and, by using use his or her knowledge and negotiating skills, try to draw the two sides together into a sensible, fair and practical agreement that will be acceptable to both of them and to the courts. This may mean moving them from their entrenched positions (typically “She’s not getting her hands on my pension” and “If he thinks I’m going to move out of this house, he can think again”), to whatever solution is in the best interest of the family.
The mediation process ensures that both sides are completely involved in the decisions. This is very different to the court process, in which the judge makes the decision for them.
Phone: 01892 519 917
