THE MEDIATION PROCESS

The first step to learning more about mediation is to attend an initial information meeting (a MIAM).

Your mediator will also make contact with the person you would like to mediate with (usually your ex-partner) to invite them to a MIAM of their own.

If they decline that offer, or it becomes clear at the MIAM that mediation isn’t suitable, mediation can’t proceed. If needed, your mediator can sign a form for a court to say that you have done all that is required.

Assuming you both want to mediate, and mediation is suitable, your next (and any subsequent) meeting would be a joint meeting. You should expect 2 – 3 meetings for mediation about Children and 3 – 5 meetings for Financial or All Issues Mediation.

Before reaching final decisions, you have time to take legal advice, which is particularly important in cases involving Finance and Property.

At the end of your mediation process, your mediator writes up a summary of your decisions. This is not legally binding (but can become so if you apply to court for a consent order).