Family Mediation Week 2023: Help To Focus On The Future
The Family Law team at Hodge Jones & Allen recognise and support Family Mediation Week, every year, in January (16th – 22nd). The aim of the week is to raise awareness of the benefits of family mediation and how it can provide a collaborative route to resolving issues between separating couples.
Jacqueline Major is a Partner in our Family Law team. As well as being an experienced family law solicitor, she is a trained mediator. In this blog for Family Mediation Week, she looks at what mediation is and how it proves useful in providing a conflict-free resolution to divorce and separation issues.
When should you consider family mediation?
You should consider mediation when you and your partner/former partner have a genuine desire to talk, reach an agreement and move forwards, especially when you expect to remain in contact, such as to co-parent, in the future.
When should you start family mediation?
Family mediation can begin at any stage of a divorce or separation. Even if you have already begun court proceedings, it’s not too late to start mediation.
What happens during family mediation?
Family mediation is a series of discussions between you and your partner, which are facilitated by a trained mediator, who will help you to reach agreements. The mediator doesn’t take sides or make decisions for you – they’ll empower you to find a resolution that works for you both, in a neutral, constructive and confidential setting.
An experienced mediator will encourage open, honest dialogue. Their goal is to help you both to move on with your lives and make the best decisions for your family.
Mediation sessions can be used to discuss any issue arising from your separation. Common topics for discussion include:
- Financial arrangements, such as maintenance payments, the division of the family home and other assets, child maintenance.
- Children matters, such as how much time the children will spend with each parent, issues related to their wellbeing.
- The terms and timings of any divorce proceedings.
- Urgent interim issues. For example, payment of unexpected expenses, or the use of a family car or a holiday with the children that is not agreed by one party.
- If you are able to reach an agreement, the mediator will prepare a formal document, which you can both review and, if necessary, obtain legal advice.
How is family mediation useful?
Most couples would like to come to an amicable agreement, but this can be difficult to achieve by themselves. Family mediation helps to resolve issues in a constructive and cost-effective manner, focusing on what matters most to your family. For many couples, they find it easier to discuss issues with a mediator present. It provides a safe space for exploring the options.
Jacqueline is a firm believer that mediation is an excellent option for couples wanting to seek an amicable resolution to their matter. Jacqueline is a member of Resolution – a community of family law professionals who aim to resolve issues in a collaborative, constructive manner.
The process of mediation can be by zoom, although often it is much better in person.
Our experienced Family Mediator, Jacqueline Major provides professional and friendly mediation, tailored to your specific circumstances. For a confidential discussion, get in touch with us today on 0330 822 3451 or request a call back online at your convenience.