In support of Family Mediation Week, we sat down with our mediator, Sam Haslam, to answer some of our most asked questions in relation to mediation.
Q: What is family mediation?
Family mediation is a process which helps you to resolve the issues that arise on the breakdown of your relationship, including divorce, children, finances and property. Mediation allows you to make important decisions about matters that affect you, without the involvement of a court. The process is voluntary and confidential and puts the needs of children and young people first. Family mediation can provide a safe, neutral environment to discuss things that matter to you, as well as a range of options for you to explore. It is an organised and constructive process which is often highly effective and leads separating couples to reaching a lasting agreement for the future.
Q: How does it work and what can we achieve?
In mediation, you take responsibility for decisions and work together to find solutions that work for you and which are in the best interests of the children. Your mediator will assist you to reach those decisions but will not make decisions for you. Unlike the court process, the power rests with you. The process is impartial, informal and constructive, focusing on the future and finding tailor-made solutions. Because it is about communication and finding solutions, mediation can improve future relationships. Mediation is also likely to avoid the stress of the court process and can save you both time and money.
Q: What does the mediation process look like?
The first step is for each party to attend their own Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (also known as a MIAM). During this meeting, you will have an opportunity to tell your mediator more about your situation and the issues that you are experiencing, as well as the result you are hoping to achieve. The mediator will explain how the process works, and you will discuss other options for reaching an agreement. Subject to your case being safe and suitable for mediation, you will then be invited to attend a joint mediation session with the mediator and the other party in which you can explore possible solutions to the issues at hand. If appropriate, the mediator might also refer you to other organisations which provide help and support such as counselling or financial advice. The sessions can be held in person or remotely and can also be done on a “shuttle basis” so you are not in the same space at the same time. Typically, joint sessions last around 1.5 to 2 hours and you can have as many sessions as you like or as required to reach a resolution.
Q: Who will be my mediator?
I will be your mediator. By way of introduction, I am a senior solicitor and a qualified mediator, and I am a long-standing member of Lake Legal. I first qualified as a solicitor in 1999 and have practiced solely in family law in both Leeds and Harrogate since then. In my capacity as a solicitor, I have extensive experience of dealing with a wide range of family related issues, in particular those relating to financial settlements and child related issues arising on separation. As a mediator, I strive to help my clients find practical and child-focused solutions, and my background as a solicitor helps me guide discussions in mediation much more quickly and efficiently.
Q: How much will mediation cost?
As a firm, we always aim to provide a high-quality service in the most cost-effective way, and to do our mediation sessions are charged on a fixed fee basis. Mediation sessions are charged depending on their duration which enables our clients to budget. More details of our costs can be found on our website at www.lakelegal.co.uk.
Q: How do we start the mediation process?
If you are interested in mediation, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 0113 357 1270 or by email at mediation@lakelegal.co.uk. Alternatively, you can use the online enquiry form on our website. Our mediation team is on hand to provide you with more information about the process, our costs and next steps.
