SOLENT FAMILY MEDIATION WEYMOUTH
Mediation can support you before you need to go to court regarding child access or divorce or help you avoid taking your dispute to legal routes
Mediation can support you before you need to go to court regarding child access or divorce or help you avoid taking your dispute to legal routes
Contact our team Today – Put and end to the conflict in your life – NOW.
Mediation is typically more affordable than going to court. Solent Family Mediation provides cost-effective solutions that can save families both time and money. The mediation process is simpler, more straight forward and efficient, reducing the financial burden of a painful legal battle and helping families reach agreements peacefully.
A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is an essential first step in the family mediation process
1.Scheduling the MIAM – First, you will need to schedule a MIAM with an accredited family mediator. This can usually be done by contacting a mediation service directly, such as Solent Family Mediation. They will arrange a convenient time for your meeting.
2. Initial Contact – Before the meeting, the mediator may contact you to gather some basic information about your situation. This helps them understand the context of your dispute and prepare for the session.
3. Attending the MIAM – The MIAM typically lasts about an hour and can be conducted in person, over the phone, or via video call. Here’s what happens during the meeting:
• Introduction: The mediator will introduce themselves and explain the purpose of the MIAM. They will outline the mediation process and its benefits.
• Confidentiality: The mediator will explain that the session is confidential, meaning that what you discuss will not be shared with the court or anyone else without your permission.
• Your Situation: You will have the opportunity to explain your situation and the issues you need to resolve. This might include child arrangements, financial disputes, or other family matters.
• Assessment: The mediator will assess whether mediation is suitable for your case. They will consider factors such as the nature of the dispute, the willingness of both parties to participate, and any safety concerns.
• Options: The mediator will provide information about mediation and other non-court dispute resolution options. They will help you understand the pros and cons of each option and how they might apply to your situation.
• Next Steps: If mediation is deemed suitable and both parties agree to proceed, the mediator will explain the next steps, including scheduling further mediation sessions. If mediation is not suitable, the mediator will discuss alternative options.
4. Form FM1 – At the end of the MIAM, if you decide not to proceed with mediation or if it is deemed unsuitable, the mediator will provide you with a signed Form FM1. This form confirms that you have attended the MIAM and is required if you decide to apply to the court for a child arrangements order or financial order.
5. Moving Forward – If you choose to proceed with mediation, the mediator will help you schedule the first mediation session. These sessions will focus on resolving the specific issues you have identified, with the mediator facilitating discussions and helping you reach mutually acceptable agreements.
Benefits of a MIAM
• Informed Decision: A MIAM helps you make an informed decision about whether mediation is the right path for you.
• Cost-Effective: Mediation is generally less expensive than court proceedings.
• Confidential: The process is private, encouraging open and honest communication.
• Control: You retain control over the decisions made, rather than having a judge decide for you.
By attending a MIAM, you take the first step towards resolving your family disputes in a constructive and cooperative manner. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!