What is family mediation?
Mediation is a process where an impartial third party, the mediator, assists disputing parties in reaching a resolution.
The mediator does not make decisions for the parties, but rather facilitates discussion and encourages open communication in order to help the parties reach a mutually agreeable resolution.
Mediation can be used to resolve disputes of all types, including those within families.
Family mediation is a type of mediation that is specifically designed to help resolve disagreements and disputes within families.
As family disputes can often be emotionally charged, mediation can provide a safe and neutral space for family members to openly communicate with each other and work towards a resolution.
If you are experiencing conflict within your family, consider contacting a mediator who can help you resolve the issue in a collaborative and compassionate way.
What to Expect
Family mediation is a process where a trained mediator helps family members communicate and resolve conflict.
The mediator does not take sides or make decisions for the family.
The goal of mediation is to help the family members communicate better and make their own decisions about how to resolve the conflict.
During family mediation, the mediator will help the family members identify the issues that are causing the conflict and then help them to communicate with each other.
Families will be encouraged to listen to each other and to try to understand each other’s points of view. The mediator will also help to brainstorm solutions to the conflict and develop a long-term plan.
Mediation can bring up strong emotions, especially when involving family members.
It is important to note that family mediation is not counselling or therapy, and it is not the same as court-ordered child custody mediation.
During family mediation, family members discuss their concerns and interests in a safe environment without judgment.
The mediator acts as a neutral party and helps guide the conversation in a constructive direction.
Once the family has agreed on a solution to their conflict, they will prepare an agreement detailing their plans which both parties will sign.
When both parties agree to the terms, the process is concluded.
If either party feels that the other is not following the agreement, they may seek legal counsel or enforcement.
Benefits
Family mediation is a process where families can come together to resolve conflicts in a constructive and peaceful way. Mediators are trained professionals who help facilitate communication and understanding between family members.
The benefits of family mediation include improved communication, reduced stress and conflict, and greater understanding and cooperation between family members.
Mediation can help families resolve disagreements about a wide range of issues, including parenting, financial matters, and family dynamics.
This can all be completed without the need to involve courts or take legal action.
MIAM Assessment
If you are interested in starting family mediation, there are a few things you need to do to get started.
First, you will need to find a mediator who is trained and experienced in handling family disputes.
Once you have found a mediator, you will need to schedule a time for a MIAMs assessment to take place.
This is a shorter session that involves a one-on-one discussion with the mediator, giving you the chance to explain the situation and understand how the rest of the sessions will move forward.
The aim is to get both parties familiar with each other so the best possible solutions can be reached.
Mediation Sessions
Once you have attended your MIAM assessment, you will need to book a standard mediation session where all parties are present.
It is important to choose a time when all family members are available and can fully commit to the process.
The process itself is fairly straightforward.
All parties will meet with the mediator and discuss their issues. The mediator listens to both sides and doesn’t take a position or advocate for either party.
During the process, the mediator will facilitate discussion and help the family members identify common goals. The mediator won’t make decisions for the family or impose their own values.
After each session, you will both receive a Statement of Outcome which will summarise what has been discussed and what has been agreed upon so far.
This will also include details about your next session.
At the end of the mediation process, the family should have an agreement that they all support and can carry out. If needed, the mediator can also follow up with the parties to make sure the agreed-upon solution is working.
Costs
The cost of family mediation varies depending on many factors, including the length of the mediation process, the location, and the agencies and professionals involved.
However, family mediation is much more accessible and affordable than involving the courts.
Our team offers a variety of mediation services starting from £175 per person, per session for standard mediation. MIAM assessments cost £100 for a 60-minute session and child-inclusive sessions at £75 for 90 minutes.
What does family mediation cover?
Family mediation can cover a variety of aspects within its sessions. This can be dependent on the people involved and what issues they are facing during their separation.
Typically, family mediation will include several issues that could be discussed such as:
– Property, such as your family home
– Where the children will live
– How the time will be split among children
– Support payments
– How assets will be divided
– Other financial concerns
How is family mediation different from other types of mediation?
Family mediation is a form of mediation that is especially suited to dealing with high-conflict situations. In a nutshell, it is pro-problem-solving and pro-cooperation, whereas traditional mediation takes more of a neutral approach.
Family mediation also strives to ensure all parties leave the table feeling like winners. If you feel like there is a winner and a loser in your family dispute, then the process hasn’t been carried out correctly.
Why should I consider family mediation?
Mediation is a less confrontational way to deal with disputes than other alternatives, such as litigation.
Litigation is highly structured and requires involving the courts, which is often much more costly.
A solution that is found through mediation is also much more likely to be followed by both parties as it is a solution that has been carefully thought out and agreed upon by everyone involved.
During mediation, there is no emphasis on who is right or wrong and the focus is on finding a solution that works for everyone.
You may also consider family mediation if any agreements already in place need to be adjusted due to a change in circumstances.
A mediator can then help you make new arrangements that work going forward.
Who is family mediation for?
Anyone can request family mediation to help resolve a dispute. Whether you are experiencing parenting issues, financial concerns, and even legacy issues.
Mediation can also be used for extended family members who are affected by the separation, such as grandparents.
Typically, grandparents may have difficulty when their grandchildren are involved are would like to cooperate with parents on moving forward.
Step-parents and partners can also use mediation to support their new partner throughout if all parties are happy communicating freely.
