Mediation Services
Divorce/separation – understanding whether divorce is the right way forward or there are other options more suited to your circumstances. If divorce, who does what, when and how? The legal framework is often misunderstood – we can help you get that right in mediation, so it sits alongside the solution you want to achieve.
Finances – money can be a stressful subject, especially when it’s tight and you are trying to finance two homes now. In mediation, we take it in logical and manageable steps; gathering up all the financial information so you are clear what is available, thinking about what everyone’s needs are going forward, exploring options and ‘reality checking’ them. It works – a way forward can be found for everyone, without going to court and being told what is going to happen (with the delay and massive legal bills that go with that).
Arrangements for children – nothing is more important than the kids. In mediation, we make it all about them – how do they continue having as good a relationship as possible with both parents? What does it look like for them going forward; taking into account the geography of where everyone will be living, schools and extra-curricular, parents’ work patterns etc.? There are plenty of tips and tricks, use of technology and many years of shared experience which will help you work out what is best for your family.
If its always easier to have those conversations with a mediator present, we offer our ‘keeping on the right path’ annual check in service (see below).
Child inclusive mediation – as well as talking to parents, suitably trained and qualified mediators can also meet separately with children. Guidance suggests this is for children aged 10 or older, but it can be with younger children who display the appropriate maturity and/or as part of a sibling group. Consulting with children does not mean children will be making the decisions. They won’t be asked questions like “Where do you want to live?” but they will be given the opportunity to have their voice heard as an important family member. A child may have something they want the mediator to share with their parents and that can really help parents make better decisions and improve the harmony of family life going forward.
Keeping on the right path – our popular annual check in service. This came about because clients would say, “It’s so much easier when we have these discussions with you present” and “I wish we could do it like this every year”. So now you can. A one-off mediation session to plan ahead for the next year; calendar or academic year as suits you best. We look at all the arrangements for that year e.g. school holidays, Birthdays, Christmas etc. – whatever is important for your family. Calendar gets sorted, taking a lot of ongoing stress away – and a chance to air any niggles and get communication back to a better place.
Pre-Nups and Cohabitation Agreements – congratulations! Welcome to a small but fantastic group of level-headed people who have worked out that it makes sense to plan ahead. Not just for the rich and famous or the super-wealthy, an agreement entered into before marriage or moving in together could avoid a lot of grief if the relationship breaks down later. Even better, we believe having these conversations at an early stage helps draw out any differences in understanding and approach, especially around money, ironing out any potential future problems. Couples use mediation to talk about what they want included in their agreement.