Whether you are separating, going through a divorce or you are considering ending a civil partnership it can be very painful. However before you make the final decision there are often a lot of issues to discuss. While it can be very hard to make the process easy one way to ensure that it is handled in the best way possible is via family mediation.
In simple terms this is where a trained legal professional discusses the practical issues of a separation with you. This can include issues such as finances, custody issues or how to ensure that child maintenance payments are arranged.
One reason that this option is often better than going to court is that there is a bit more control and more open discussion. If you go to court then the judge makes a decision there and then. You may be able to appeal but mediation is often a more positive step before going to court (and is often a less expensive option in the longer term).
Indeed it is now mandatory that you have attended at least one mediation session before you take a case to court. However, this should not merely be a legal obligation you owe to it to yourselves to ensure that the mediation process is handled in the most professional way possible.
In the case of family issues it is often less stressful because children can see it is being handled in a more amicable way. If a case goes straight to court there is always the danger that the children feel guilty and this could have repercussions for them in later life.
The important thing to recognise is that the mediator has to work with both parties. Ultimately the mediator will have done their job if both sides can reach a mutual agreement that is beneficial for everyone involved (this is especially crucial if the case involves a custody hearing). However even the best mediators cannot guarantee results and both parties have to be willing to hear each other out and if necessary compromise.
As with any other type of legal service it is important to ask around and research the people offering legal representation. In the case of mediation this is especially important. Contact us today to find out more about the family mediation services we offer and what we can do to help families during difficult times.