HOW THE MEDIATION PROCESS WORKS

 STEP ONE:  After an initial free telephone consultation , we will invite you to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) where you can discuss with the mediator in confidence the matters that need resolving. We will explain how mediation works and discuss with you whether mediation is the way forward. This meeting typically lasts up to 1 hour. If you wish to mediate, we will contact your ex-partner and invite him or her to attend a MIAM

STEP TWO: If you both wish to mediate to resolve matters and mediation is suitable, we will then arrange your first mediation. If mediation is not suitable or if you do not wish to mediate, we can provide you with the MIAM certificate to enable you to take the step of issuing court proceedings. You will need this certificate to apply to court regardless of whether you wish to mediate or not. There are exemptions to attending a MIAM – details of which can be found HERE 

STEP THREE: During the joint mediation sessions, the mediator will help you to make proposals regarding matters that are important to you both such as arrangements for your children and/or property & family finances                                                           

STEP FOUR: The proposals made by yourself and your former partner are written up in a non-legally binding summary or outcome statement, sometimes called a Memorandum of Understanding. In finance matters, the mediator may also prepare an Open Financial Statement. Once both parties have taken legal advice, the proposals can be converted into a consent order and sent to the court for approval by the judge