Mediation is an entirely voluntary process to help you resolve your disputes. Whilst any form of conflict in life is uncomfortable, family disputes – specifically pertaining to children – can be particularly painful. That’s because there is often the wellbeing of more than just the individuals in conflict to consider and the process – and outcomes – can be both profound and long-lasting.
Using mediation to resolve your problems is not compulsory but it can help you. In most circumstances when young people are involved, common ground can at least be found in both parties fundamentally wanting the best for their children. How this desire manifests itself and what the desired outcomes are, however, can be extremely challenging, emotive and complex.
Mediation in this regard can be an extremely effective way forward. At the very least, it can ascertain whether a drawn-out, potentially traumatic legal dispute can be avoided. That’s why anyone who now wishes to take legal proceedings in a family matter, whether it involves children or finances in a divorce, is required to attend an introductory meeting.
This takes the form of a ‘Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting’ (MIAM), which will explain the mediation process and seek to determine whether the case is suitable for mediation.
Jagdev Legal’s lawyers are here to help you.
Key Principles of Mediation
Mediation is not mandatory and there is no legal requirement to enter into it.
Whilst each case is different and mediation is not always possible, there will on most occasions be at least a degree of common ground on both sides of a dispute – a desire for said dispute to be resolved expediently, fairly and with as little distress and disruption as possible.
If there is a willingness to at least explore the prospect of reaching a satisfactory and fair outcome without the need to escalate, mediation can be constructive in mitigating against more protracted, painful and potentially expensive proceedings.
Whilst lawyers will naturally have a vested interest in positioning and advancing the needs of their clients, a mediator is fully impartial – meaning those in dispute can be confident of a fully-objective service.
A good mediator will not take sides and will take on board all issues and matters of conflict raised, offering crucial objectivity and balance which can otherwise be lost.
Whilst the role of a mediator is not to offer direct advice, they can offer guidance to both parties on the legal principles that could affect any case – which can be insightful in determining whether a mutual agreement can be reached and what the potential ramifications could be on both sides should the dispute escalate further legally.
Mediation falls within the same code of ethics as seeing a doctor – everything discussed will remain private and confidential; save extreme circumstances where there is a moral duty to report findings – such as if there is a very real and genuine concern for an individual’s safety.
Mediation can be a practical way of getting all outstanding issues out on the table in a controlled, safe environment with experienced professionals.
Crucially, anything discussed in mediation will not be used in a court of law, therefore client can raise and discuss issues freely without any risk of the discussions being used against them at a later date.
Much like a therapist will act as a facilitator and allow the client to lead and steer the conversation, similarly, those seeking mediation are in control of the process and discourse.
Each mediation will deal with issues unique to the individuals involved and every effort will be made to allow those in conflict to move forward in the best manner possible.
It’s important to note that nothing discussed in mediation is legally binding – this only becomes the case if discussions reach a conclusion deemed satisfactory to both parties, at which point the appointed legal team(s) can progress.
At Jagdev Legal, we know any dispute – big or small – can be stressful and impact lives.
Whether your dispute centres on divorce proceedings; child and parenting arrangements; separation; division of assets and liabilities or something completely different, the road ahead can feel confused, long and uncomfortable.
Mediation can be the first step in resolution and a brighter future. Our friendly, experienced and passionate family law experts know every situation is unique and deeply personal.
We will work with you to understand your case and work towards the best possible outcome to allow you to get on with living your life.
Take the next positive step and contact our team today.
Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) £100 + VAT
The process begins with a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) that takes place in a mediator’s office.
The purpose of the MIAM is to ask you what your case is about and whether it can be mediated. Jagdev Legal charges £100+VAT for this meeting.
By law, anyone applying to go to court to deal with children’s issues or financial matters must first attend a MIAM – unless there are safety or abuse issues.
Fixed fee advice meeting for £216 + VAT
We are able to offer an initial meeting for £216.00 + VAT. We are able to offer meetings, by telephone, video and if suitable face to face.
Why Choose us
Few things are more important than family. As a family-run business ourselves, we’ve dedicated a great deal of the work we do into helping people and those they love, handling many different legal issues and dynamics. For many of us, it’s the reason we became legal experts and solicitors in the first place.
Whatever you need us for, our team is here for you. Whether you’re excitedly planning for the future, or dealing with the aftermath of a separation, we can be there there at your side, helping you to celebrate the good times, helping you to get through the difficult times.
Our Other Services
We offer a range of legal services.
