Family Mediation
Mediation is a way to reach agreement concerning your finances, the children, and sometimes both.
It usually involves a series of meetings with a qualified family mediator - who is quite likely to be a family law solicitor. All discussions that take place during mediation are confidential and are not allowed to be referred to in any Court proceedings.
Mediation is a voluntary, independent process and you can choose to opt in or out at any time. It runs in parallel to the Court process, where you both instruct an independent mediator who assists in your discussions and negotiations to guide you to a resolution.
You and your partner / spouse will often have your own solicitor advising on aspects of your case that may need further investigating and settlement proposals.
Over the course of a number of mediation sessions, your proposed settlement terms will be carefully considered, and the mediator will help by giving independent input to help to facilitate settlement. The mediator is not allowed to give legal advice to either party.
If the mediation results in an agreement then your solicitors will draw up a consent order for you to sign. This is usually lodged at the Court without the need for your attendance.