This year’s Family Mediation Week runs from 26–30 January 2026. An initiative of the Family Mediation Council (FMC), the annual event is an opportunity to raise awareness of family mediation and its benefits to separating families.
To support the promotion of this initiative, our family law team answers some frequently asked questions about family mediation and highlights its key role in resolving family law disputes.
What is family mediation?
Family mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that involves a separating couple sitting with an impartial, professionally trained third party (the mediator) to discuss issues arising from the breakdown of their relationship.
Since April 2014, attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is a legal requirement for couples considering court proceedings for child arrangements or financial matters. The requirement ensures that couples understand how mediation can help them reach agreements on property, finances, and children without going to court.
However, there are a few exceptions,for example, if there is evidence of violence or domestic abuse.
What are the benefits of mediation in family law disputes?
Family mediation has many advantages over court proceedings, which are often stressful, time-consuming, and costly.
Some of the advantages of family mediation include:
- Speed. Mediation is a much faster process than having to go to court.
- Cost-effectiveness. Mediation is more cost-effective as couples share the expense of the mediator, and both save on legal fees.
- Reduced conflict. Mediation is focused on reaching an agreement together rather than pitting one person against another.
- Collaborative approach. An independent mediator helps couples focus on the future and helps parties reach a consensus.
- Reduced stress. Court proceedings can be traumatic and take an emotional toll on everyone involved.
- Open communication. Family mediation in the UK is ‘without prejudice’, which means couples can discuss matters openly, make offers and explore different options without being legally bound to them.
- Retaining control. Parties are responsible for reaching their own agreements rather than delegating decision-making powers to a third party, such as the court.
- Flexibility. Mediation is a bespoke process that can be tailored to a couple’s particular needs.
What issues can family mediation help with?
Mediation helps separating couples decide on practical arrangements following the breakdown of a relationship. It can be tailored to the specific needs of a couple.
Some common issues mediation can help with include:
- Financial decisions, such as what will happen to property, savings, and pensions.
- Arrangements for children, including where they will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and what will happen during the holidays.
- Child maintenance payments.
- Dividing personal possessions and household goods.
- Dealing with any debts.
How much does family mediation cost?
The cost of family mediation varies depending on the number of sessions required and the issues that must be addressed. As mentioned earlier, you may also be required to attend an initial meeting with the mediator. This is sometimes called a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).
According to Gov.uk, the usual cost of a MIAM is around £120 depending on the mediator you use. You and your ex-partner will need to attend your own MIAM separately.
You do not have to pay for a MIAM if either you or your ex-partner qualifies for legal aid.
If you are on a low income and qualify for legal aid, the MIAM and mediation sessions will be free.
You will not have to go to a MIAM in some circumstances, for example if there’s been domestic abuse.
The government also introduced a family mediation voucher scheme, under which eligible parties receive a financial contribution of up to £500 towards mediation costs. For more information about the voucher scheme, visit: Gov.UK Guidance Family Mediation Voucher Scheme.
Is a mediation agreement legally binding?
A family mediation agreement is not in itself legally binding. However, it is possible to make the agreement legally binding by applying to a court for a consent order.
Once you and your partner have reached a consensus about your future arrangements, you should discuss the agreement with an experienced family solicitor, who will advise on the appropriate next steps.
Can I change a mediation agreement?
Yes. If your circumstances change or the arrangements you decided upon don’t work, you can return to the mediator and update the original agreement.
Family Solicitors Portsmouth, Fareham, and Waterlooville
Regardless of the complexity of your family law matter or dispute, our solicitors in Portsmouth, Fareham, and Waterlooville have the knowledge and expertise to help. We will explain all the options available and advise on the best way to proceed. If you are thinking of separating from your partner, please speak to a member of our family law team at Larcomes.
About our Family Law Legal Teams
Our family law solicitors hold several specialist accreditations, including the Help and Support for Separated Families (HSSF) Mark and the Law Society’s Children Law Panel, and are members of Resolution and The Grandparents’ Association. Find out more about our family law team.
Our specialist family law services include:
- Separation and Divorce.
- Matrimonial Finances.
- Civil Partnership.
- Cohabitation.
- Children Act Proceedings.
- Pre- and Post-nuptial Agreements.
Remember, you can talk to us in complete confidence and gain reassurance from speaking to someone who understands your situation.
For a free, no-obligation and confidential discussion, please call our divorce and separation lawyers Portsmouth: 023 9244 8100; Waterlooville: 023 9224 6666; or Fareham: 013 2982 3322, or make an online enquiry.
Please note that this article is not intended as legal or professional advice. It is for general guidance only, and updates to the law may have changed since it was published.
