Family mediation is a voluntary process to help family members resolve disputes without the need for court intervention. It provides a forum for the identification of each party’s needs, interests and issues to facilitate joint problem solving. This is done through discussion, exploration of settlement alternatives and negotiation conducted primarily by the parties themselves.
The role of the mediator is to facilitate the mediation sessions and help the participants reach a mutually acceptable resolution to their dispute. The mediator cannot represent either party and should not take sides. The mediator’s responsibility is to promote the use of non-confrontational approaches in resolving disputes and in particular to encourage the participants to consider the welfare needs of any children involved in the case.
Sessions of family mediation can be arranged either in one day or over several two to three-hour meetings. It is important that participants prepare themselves for the mediation session by discussing the matter in question with their solicitor and bringing all documentation related to the matter. This preparation will assist the participants in getting the most out of their mediation session.
It is also important to remember that mediation is not about “winning”. It’s about a fair outcome for all parties involved including the children and resolving the matter in a way that will avoid court intervention. It is not uncommon for a family that enters into mediation embroiled in extreme tension to leave the mediation with logistical agreements and reminiscing about happy family memories. https://yorkshire.lakesmediation.co.uk/