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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. |
What is Family Mediation? |
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A. |
Family Mediation is a way of resolving difficulties through joint meetings with the help of a trained impartial person. It creates an opportunity to sort out practical family arrangements, particularly during separation or divorce. |
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Q. |
What about the mediators? |
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A. |
All our mediators are trained by National Family Mediation, are recognised by the Legal Services Commission, by assessment, and are full members of the UK College of Family Mediators. They come from a variety of professional backgrounds. |
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Q. |
Who can use Family Mediation? |
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A. |
Any family member. It does not matter whether you are married or not, have children or do not, are in a same sex relationship. Other family members may use mediation to arrange how to keep in touch with children. |
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Q. |
Can children be involved? |
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A. |
Indirectly children are involved in most mediations, where their views and likely effects upon them are expressed by their parents. They can also be seen by mediators trained in direct consultation with children. Many safeguards are built in before a mediator will agree to direct consultation. |
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Q. |
Does Family Mediation really work? |
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A. |
Yes it does! For it to work well it needs your willingness to take part, neither pressured by the other person nor exerting unfair pressure yourself. You must be willing to share all relevant information. If you can both do this, with the help of the mediator, you are very likely to reach agreement. |
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Q. |
How much does Family Mediation cost? |
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A. |
Possibly nothing. At the first meeting, you will be invited to undertake a means assessment from which you may qualify for publicly funded mediation which will cost you nothing. The charges for those who do not qualify are set out in the Cost section. |
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Q. |
Do I still need a solicitor? |
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A. |
That is for you to decide [mediators never take decisions for you!] However, there are considerable advantages in having your own legal adviser who can protect your individual interests and, at the conclusion of mediation, prepare orders for the court. |
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Q. |
Can you provide interpreters? |
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A. |
Yes. We can arrange for independent interpreters to attend the sessions where necessary. |
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Q. |
I have special needs. Can you still help? |
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A. |
Our offices at Southgate are fully wheelchair accessible. We will also help with any special requirements for those who have hearing or sight difficulties. |
