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Mediation
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Divorce
Susan Howarth & Company
41 Chesterway
Northwich
Cheshire
CW95JE
Tel: 01606 48777
Fax : 01606 49777
info@susanhowarthsolicitors.co.uk
Mediation is the process by which couples seek to reach an agreement about
arrangements for money, property and children, finances and property. Couples
discuss these issues in the presence of a trained, independent third party
- the mediator who will help them consider alternative options and possible
ways of reaching agreement.
What are the benefits
of Mediation?
Generally much quicker and less expensive than Court procedure/litigation.
Helps couples to communicate and co-operae to reach their own agreement.
Is less stressful and upsetting than going through the Courts and allows the couples to keep control over sorting out their problems.
1, Is confidential.
2, What does Mediation cover?
3, A mediator can be used to help separating couples agree:
4, The terms of separation/divorce.
5, Care and contact arrangements for children.
6, Financial provisions for either of the couple and/or children.
7, How the family home or other property should be shared.
8, How does Mediation work?
Couples are generally referred to a mediator by their solicitor and will already have received legal advice. If not they initially will be encouraged to seek advice from their solicitor as well as at various stages throughout the process.
The next stage involves a series of sessions between the couple and a
mediator. If financial issues are being discussed the mediation process
starts with the disclosure of all financial information.
Such information may be referred to by either party outside the mediation
forum and can be used by the parties` Solicitors.
The mediator facilitates open and free discussion; ensures any proposals are realistic and will help the couple to reach a consensus. NB. Proposals made during the mediation process are not legally binding.
Once an agreement has been reached the mediator will summarise the proposals and any financial disclosures. Summaries are subsequently passed to each party`s solicitor who will translate them into legally binding agreements.
What are the number and cost of Mediation Sessions?
The number of sessions depends entirely on the couple and the nature of the problems. On average two to three sessions are needed for cases involving children and four to five sessions for those involving property. Charges are payable at the beginning of each session and can be shared in any way the couple may agree.
Generally, charges can be as much as one third less than those conducted
solely through the Court. One or both parties may be entitled to Legal
Aid.
Who Mediates?
Here at Susan Howarth and Company specialise in family law and are all trained mediators operating in Northwich, Cheshire.
They have undergone an extensive mediation training programme with the
SFLA and are subject to regulation by the association. They work to a code
of practice which follows internationally accepted principles.
Who are the SFLA?
The SFLA was established in 1982. One of its main objectives is to encourage its members to deal with family issues sensitively, efficiently and economically. Another objective is to promote and encourage the use of mediation.
SFLA mediators are all practicing lawyers. As such they can apply their
knowledge and experience of family law in their mediation work and can
help couples to reach an agreement that will be upheld by the Courts.
What do I do next?
To appoint a Mediator simply contact us by clicking here and we will be happy to look at your situation. Remember that all information supplied to us is done so in the strictest confidence.