Saracens Solicitors are a member of Resolution. This means that we are committed to conflict-free separation wherever possible when we are acting as your divorce solicitor in London. This organisation recognises that straightforward and amicable divorce proceedings are better for everyone involved.
All parties are more likely to stick to terms worked out with the help of professional mediation. We can help you decide if mediation is right for you, taking into account the information below.
What is mediation?
This is a process whereby a third party supports couples in reaching a resolution to divorce issues. When Saracens Solicitors are acting as your divorce solicitor in London, we can help you with the mediation process, if you wish. Some of the skills offered by mediation are negotiation, conflict resolution, reframing and clear communication.
You may only need to go to one mediation meeting to prove that you have considered mediation. The first session is where the mediator can tell you how the process goes and advise you about costs, possibilities and limitations of mediation. If you decide not to go ahead after this, they can still provide paperwork letting the court know that you attended an information session.
Do you need to have mediation?
You may wish to go straight to court because you do not think that mediation will work for some reason. It is now a requirement, however, that couples at least attempt mediation before they can be seen by a judge. This is partly to take the pressure off the courts system and partly because many people can reach equitable agreements through mediation without the cost and stress of the court process.
There are special circumstances that may mean you can skip the mediation step. These are usually based around either protection issues for yourself and your child or an inability to contact the other party and have them be present for mediation.
If you think that you might be exempt from having to attend mediation, please let Saracens Solicitors know when we are acting as your divorce solicitor in London. We can help you apply for exemption and provide other support for any issues that you are facing.
