At Ridley & Hall Solicitors, we recognise that family disputes can be both emotionally and financially challenging. During Family Mediation Week, we want to highlight the importance of mediation in resolving disputes amicably and efficiently. Our experienced Partner and Solicitor, Vicky Medd, offers expert mediation services designed to help families reach fair and workable solutions.

• Is Mediation necessary before applying to Court?
• What happens during family mediation?
• Shuttle mediations
• Virtual mediation
• The benefits of mediation
• When is mediation not required?
• How can Ridley & Hall’s Family Solicitors help

Is Mediation necessary before applying to Court?

Mediation should not be considered as a last resort when clients wish to apply to Court but should also be considered when participants wish to settle prior to Court, in a cost effective and collaborative manner.

Under the Family Law Protocol, participants are required to consider mediation before filing an application to court. This involves attending an individual Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), where you’ll learn about the mediation process and whether it’s suitable for your case. There are exceptions to this requirement, such as cases involving domestic abuse or urgency, where mediation may not be the appropriate solution.

Both participants will be invited to attend the MIAM in any event, before mediation can take place.

What happens during family mediation?

Family mediation is a structured process, where an impartial mediator facilitates discussions between couples to help resolve issues such as child arrangements or financial settlements. During the sessions, the mediator is unable to offer legal advice, but ensures both participants have equal opportunity to voice their concerns, explore options and negotiate agreements. Mediation often takes place over a number of sessions, allowing participants to go home and think about their discussions. Participants are also able to take Independent Legal Advice from their Solicitor regarding the conversations within mediation, which can facilitate matters concluding faster. Mediation is a confidential process aimed at fostering constructive dialogue and minimising conflict. Attending mediation is optional, if either participant decides they no longer wish to partake the mediation session will stop.

Shuttle mediations

In some cases, couples may feel uncomfortable being in the same room. Shuttle mediation allows for discussions to occur with the mediator moving between separate rooms, ensuring both participants feel safe and supported. This method is particularly beneficial in high-conflict situations, as it reduces tension while still allowing progress to be made towards an agreement.

Virtual mediation

Our Vicky Medd can also offer virtual mediation sessions. This is extremely beneficial in cases where couples do not live locally to one another, or where couples do not live locally to our firm.

The benefits of mediation

Mediation can significantly reduce the costs associated with resolving family disputes. Court proceedings are often lengthy and expensive, while mediation is generally quicker and more cost effective. By avoiding court, you also minimise stress and maintain greater control over the outcome, as agreements reached through mediation are made collaboratively rather than imposed by a judge.

Although speaking with the other participant during mediation may feel uncomfortable, it generally aids familiar relationships as opposed to negotiating via Solicitors as both participants are able to discuss their opinion in a calm environment.

It may also allow a resolution to be made faster, as there is no need to wait for negotiations to be passed through Solicitors.

When is mediation not required?

There are specific circumstances where mediation is not necessary, including:-

• Situations involving domestic abuse and violence.
• Cases where one party is unable to participate due to incapacity.
• If the dispute involves urgent matters, such as a risk to a child or the need for immediate financial relief.
• When a participant has already attended a MIAM and mediation is deemed unsuitable.

How can Ridley & Hall’s Family Solicitors help

At Ridley & Hall we are committed to supporting clients through every step of the mediation process. Vicky Medd’s extensive experience ensures that clients receive tailored guidance and the best possible chance of reaching a resolution without the need for court intervention.

If you’re considering mediation or have any questions about the process, please contact us at on our freephone 0800 860 62 65 today to arrange a consultation.

At Ridley & Hall we also offer Resolution Together, this family service is aimed at assisting couples who are going through separation and divorce. Our approach focuses on collaborative legal guidance for financial resolutions and child-related arrangements, provided by a single experienced family lawyer.

Corinne Barnett – Solicitor