Understanding family mediation
Mediation is not…
Family mediation helps separating couples and parents discuss children, finances and future arrangements. It is not court, counselling or legal advice.
Recently separated?
Unsure about finances?
Need child arrangements?
Want to avoid court where possible?
What is mediation?
Family mediation is a structured process where an impartial mediator helps people discuss arrangements after separation.
Clarity before you begin
Mediation helps you discuss decisions. It does not make the decisions for you.
A family mediator helps both people talk through the practical issues that follow separation, including children, finances, property and future communication. The mediator manages the process, keeps discussions focused and helps both people explore possible solutions.
The mediator is neutral. They do not take sides, tell either person what to do, or decide who is right.
Mediation is not…
What family mediation does not do.
It is not relationship counselling
Mediation is not designed to repair the relationship. It focuses on practical arrangements after separation.
It is not legal advice
The mediator does not advise either person what legal outcome to accept. You can take legal advice separately.
It is not court
There is no judge in mediation. The mediator does not impose an order or decide the outcome.
It is not taking sides
The mediator is impartial. They help both people participate and keep the conversation balanced.
It is not forced agreement
Mediation is voluntary. Both people must be willing to take part and explore possible solutions.
It is not automatically legally binding
Proposals reached in mediation may need legal advice or a court order before becoming legally binding.
What mediation can help with
Mediation is practical, structured and future-focused.
- Children arrangements and parenting plans.
- Communication after separation.
- Property, savings, pensions, debts and other financial matters.
- Changes to existing arrangements as family circumstances change.
- Whether a MIAM, shuttle mediation or online mediation may be suitable.
If direct communication is hard
Shuttle mediation may be possible. This allows each person to remain separate while the mediator moves between them.
If cost is a concern
Legal aid or the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme may help with costs, depending on eligibility and the type of dispute.
Mediation questions
Will the mediator tell us what to do?
No. The mediator manages the process and helps both people explore options, but the decisions remain with you.
Can mediation help if we cannot agree about children?
Yes, where mediation is suitable. Parents can discuss parenting time, holidays, handovers, communication and other child-focused arrangements.
Can mediation help with finances?
Yes. Mediation can help people discuss property, savings, pensions, debts, income and future financial arrangements after separation.
Is mediation confidential?
Mediation is generally confidential, subject to important exceptions such as safeguarding, risk of harm, financial disclosure and legal obligations.
Do I need a MIAM before court?
Many family court applications require a MIAM unless an exemption applies. A mediator can explain the process and whether mediation is suitable.
Useful related pages
Before you enquire
- Think about the issues you need to resolve.
- Bring details of any existing court dates or forms.
- Tell the mediator about any safety or domestic abuse concerns.
- Ask whether legal aid or voucher funding may be relevant.
Need family mediation?
Contact Solent Family Mediation to discuss MIAMs, online mediation, shuttle mediation, children arrangements or separation finances.