If you are going through a separation and have started researching your options, you may already have spoken to a solicitor, or at least considered it. Solicitors have an important role to play in many separations, particularly when legal advice or formal agreements are needed. However, a growing number of couples are choosing to start with family mediation as a more constructive first step.
In short, many separating couples choose family mediation first because it can be quicker, less adversarial and more cost-effective than going straight to court. Mediation also allows you to stay more involved in the decisions that affect your family, while still taking legal advice where needed.
What Are The Costs Of Going Straight To Court?
Instructing solicitors and making an application to court in relation to child arrangements can cost in the region of £10,000 each. For financial arrangements, costs of £10,000 to £20,000 each are not uncommon, with some people being quoted as much as £40,000. Those figures can add up quickly, and the process may take months or even years.
Beyond the financial cost, court proceedings are often adversarial by nature. They can increase conflict rather than reduce it, which can be particularly difficult when children are involved and you need to maintain some kind of co-parenting relationship for years to come.
How Much Does Family Mediation Cost?
At Vollans Mediation we charge fixed fees, so you always know exactly what you are paying at each stage. There are no hidden charges and no open-ended hourly billing.
A typical private mediation for child arrangements might cost around £950 per person in total. A case involving both child and financial arrangements might cost around £1,500 per person. Costs will depend on the complexity of your situation and the number of sessions needed, but mediation is usually considerably less expensive than contested court proceedings.
If you are eligible for the Government’s Mediation Voucher Scheme, you may also receive up to £500 towards your mediation costs. And for those who are financially eligible, Legal Aid may be available.
Can I Still Use A Solicitor If I Choose Mediation?
Yes. Choosing mediation does not mean you cannot use a solicitor. Many people take legal advice alongside mediation, so they understand their rights and options before making decisions. Your solicitor can also help turn any agreement reached in mediation into a formal legal document, where appropriate.
Why Do Separating Couples Choose Mediation First?
- It is usually significantly cheaper than court proceedings
- It is often faster. Sessions can usually be arranged within weeks rather than months
- You stay in control of the outcome rather than having decisions made by a judge
- It is usually less adversarial, which matters when you will continue to co-parent
- It’s confidential
- It can work around your schedule, with face-to-face and online options available
Does Family Mediation Work?
In the majority of cases, yes. Mediation does not guarantee agreement, but it gives couples the best possible environment to reach one. And because agreements reached in mediation are made by you (rather than imposed by a court), they tend to be more durable.
Mediation is not right for every situation. If there are concerns about safety or significant power imbalances, we will discuss this honestly at your initial meeting. But for most separating couples, including those with complex finances or strongly held disagreements about children, mediation is worth exploring as a first step.
What Is The First Step In Family Mediation?
The starting point is a MIAM, a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. This is a one-to-one meeting with your mediator, with no obligation to proceed. It gives you the information you need to make the right decision for your family.
Ready to find out more? Call us on 0113 213 3662 or email info@vollansmediation.co.uk