Mediation can help separating couples or parents discuss practical arrangements with the assistance of an independent mediator. A mediator does not take sides, does not act for either person and does not give legal advice. Their role is to help both people explore whether agreement can be reached without the need for court proceedings.
Gladstone Solicitors does not provide mediation services and we do not act as mediators. However, we can advise and support you before, during and after the mediation process so that you understand your legal position and feel better prepared for discussions.
We can help you identify the issues you need to consider, prepare for mediation meetings, understand the possible legal outcomes, review proposals made during mediation and consider whether any suggested agreement is fair, practical and workable.
If an agreement is reached, we can advise on the next legal steps. This may include preparing or advising on consent orders, child arrangements, separation agreements or other documents needed to record the outcome properly and, where appropriate, make it legally effective.
How we can help
- Explain what mediation involves and what to expect from the process.
- Advise you on your legal position before you attend mediation.
- Help you prepare the issues and questions you may want to raise.
- Review proposals made during mediation and advise whether they are fair, practical and workable.
- Help you understand the possible legal outcomes if agreement is not reached.
- Prepare or advise on documents needed to record any agreement properly, including consent orders, child arrangements or separation agreements where appropriate.
FAQs about mediation
What is mediation?
Mediation is a process where separating couples or parents meet with an independent mediator to try to resolve practical issues, such as finances, property or arrangements for children.
Is the mediator on my side?
No. A mediator is independent and does not take sides. Their role is to help both people discuss the issues and see whether agreement can be reached.
Can a mediator give me legal advice?
No. A mediator cannot give legal advice to either person. They can provide general information, but they cannot advise you about what is best for you legally.
Do Gladstone Solicitors provide mediation?
No. Gladstone Solicitors does not provide mediation services and does not act as a mediator. We can, however, advise and support you before, during and after mediation.
Why should I speak to a solicitor before mediation?
It can help to understand your legal position before you attend mediation. This means you can go into discussions better prepared and with a clearer idea of what may be fair or realistic.
Can you help me prepare for mediation?
Yes. We can help you identify the issues to discuss, prepare questions, understand your options and consider what documents or information may be useful.
Can you advise me during mediation?
Yes. Although we do not attend as the mediator, we can advise you between mediation sessions, review proposals and help you understand the legal implications of any suggestions made.
What happens if we reach an agreement in mediation?
If agreement is reached, we can advise on how it should be recorded and whether further legal steps are needed, such as a consent order, child arrangements agreement or separation agreement.
Is an agreement reached in mediation legally binding?
Not always. Agreements reached in mediation may need to be put into a formal legal document or approved by the court before they are legally binding.
What happens if mediation does not work?
If agreement cannot be reached, we can advise you on the next steps, including negotiation through solicitors or, where necessary, making an application to the court.
Do I have to attend mediation before going to court?
In many family cases, you may need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, known as a MIAM, before making a court application, unless an exemption applies.
What is a MIAM?
A MIAM is a meeting with a mediator to find out whether mediation may be suitable. It is not the same as full mediation, and the mediator will assess whether mediation is appropriate in your circumstances.
Contact Gladstone Solicitors
If you are considering mediation, or have already been invited to attend, we can help you understand your position and prepare with confidence. To arrange an appointment, please contact Gladstone Solicitors by email or telephone.
Email: info@gladstonesolicitors.co.uk
Telephone: 0115 9555 050
Information about our costs is available on our Price Transparency page.