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Family Mediation Week
The 23rd January 2017 to the 27th February 2017 is Family Mediation Week and it is all about raising awareness of mediation. Mediation can assist families going through a divorce or separation by helping them sort out their disputes.
What is mediation and how does it work?
Mediation is a way to resolve matters between separating parties without the need to go to Court. The parties involved in a separation meet with an impartial mediator in order to sort out disagreements and reach an agreement. This may concern issues relating to finances, property and children. A mediator cannot give you personal legal advice but at Emery Johnson Astills, we can offer you that personal legal advice if you are going through a separation or divorce.
Why mediation?
Mediation allows parties to come to an amicable agreement which they both believe is fair. It gives parties more say about what happens, is less stressful and can help reduce hostility. Where children are concerned, mediation is often easier on the children as parents are communicating, cooperating and there is less conflict.
How many mediation sessions do parties usually need and how long do they last?
A session usually lasts 1 to 2 hours and in many cases, only a few mediation sessions are needed for couples to resolve matters which can make mediation an extremely cost effective approach to divorce or separation. That being said, the length and number of sessions required will very much depend on the situation itself.
Are any agreements made in mediation legally binding?
The mediator will prepare a memo of understanding once the parties have come to an agreement although not all parties will reach an agreement. A memo of understanding is not legally binding but they can be made legally binding by the Court. The parties should consult with a solicitor before committing themselves to a legally binding agreement.
At Emery Johnson Astills, we have a Family Law team who are able to offer you advice about making a memo of understanding legally binding.
Where can I find out more information about Family Mediation Week?
If you would like to find out more information about Family Mediation Week then please visit http://www.familymediationweek.org.uk/.
If you are going through a separation or divorce and need advice regarding any of the issues discussed within this article, please contact the Family Law team at Emery Johnson Astills by telephoning 0116 255 4855.