What does family mediation involve?
- Voluntary participation: Both parties must agree to attend and be willing to negotiate in good faith.
- Impartial mediator: The mediator doesn’t take sides or offer legal advice but guides discussions and ensures a fair hearing for all.
- Structured sessions: Mediation usually takes place in a series of meetings, covering topics like finances, property, or child arrangements.
- Legally binding outcomes: If an agreement is reached, it can be formalised into a consent order, which the court can approve to make it legally binding.
How can a solicitor help with family mediation, and what does it cost?
A family solicitor can:
- Offer independent advice: Ensuring you understand your legal position before and during the mediation process.
- Draft consent orders: Converting your mediated agreements into a legally binding format, if desired.
- Represent you if mediation fails: Should mediation not resolve all issues, a solicitor can guide you through court proceedings.
Costs vary based on your solicitor’s experience, the complexity of the issues, and how many mediation sessions you need. Mediators often charge £100–£200 per hour (often split between participants), while solicitors’ fees can range from £150–£300 per hour. Some firms offer fixed-fee packages for simpler cases. An initial consultation helps clarify likely costs and the benefits of mediation for your situation.