24 Family Mediation

1. Introduction

2. What is mediation?

If you are getting divorced or separating from your partner, it is usually better if both of you can sort out the arrangements for the future between you. Mediation can help you reach decisions about these arrangements together. An arrangement that you and your partner have agreed between you is more likely to work in the long term than one that a court imposes on you.

Mediation aims to help you find a solution that meets the needs of you, your partner and any children, and that you all feel is fair. At the end of mediation, you should feel that there has been no 'winner' or 'loser', but that you have come to an arrangement that you can all live with.

Mediation can help to reduce tension, anger and misunderstandings, and improve communication between you and your partner. This is especially important if you have children, because you will both have to continue to co-operate over their care and upbringing after you have separated.

You may want to read this leaflet alongside one of the Community Legal Advice leaflets ‘Divorce and Separation’ or ‘Living Together’. These have more information about your legal rights if your relationship has broken down.

3. Who can use mediation?

4. What can I use mediation for?

5. At what stage can I use mediation?

6. What if my partner is violent or threatening?

7. What if I don´t use mediation?

8. Do I still need a solicitor if I use mediation?

9. Is mediation the same as counselling?

10. What happens in mediation?

11. Is mediation confidential?

12. How long does mediation take?

13. What happens at the end of mediation?

14. How much does mediation cost?

15 How do I find a mediator?

16. Further help

17. About this leaflet

This leaflet is published by the Legal Services Commission (LSC).

Leaflet Version: August 2008

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