24 Family Mediation

1. Introduction

2. What is mediation?

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?

You don’t have to use mediation to sort out arrangements for the future – you can negotiate directly with your partner and reach agreement without any outside help.

You can ask a solicitor to negotiate with your partner for you, either directly or through your partner’s solicitor. Your solicitor may still suggest that you try mediation to settle a particular problem between you.

You can apply to the court to settle your dispute for you. However, the court will encourage you to reach agreement between yourselves if you can. If you have not already tried mediation, the court may suggest you do.

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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