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The benefits of family mediation
Every professional working in family justice agrees that the family courts are overwhelmed with applications relating to children and finances on divorce. Everywhere in the country family courts have significant backlogs resulting in long delays. It is not uncommon for court proceedings to last well over a year.
In contrast, Family Mediation offers a multitude of advantages for those seeking resolution in a dispute. You get the support of an experienced family mediator who uses their skills and experience to help separating couples reach agreements.
Here are some of the benefits of Family Mediation:
1. Cost effectiveness
Mediation offers a financial advantage, with costs shared equally between parties. This approach is notably more economical than the expenses associated with protracted court proceedings.
Participants can also receive a voucher for £500 towards their mediation costs, when they are discussing child arrangements, through a scheme funded by the MOJ. All that the participant needs to do is sign a consent form, the mediator will do the rest.
2. Speed of Settlement
Mediation meetings can be swiftly organised at a time convenient for all involved – unlike court proceedings where the court dictate the timeframes which often involve long delays. As the negotiations take place as discussions, with both participants allocating time to focus on trying to reach an agreement, progress is usually much quicker than alternatives such as exchanging letters between lawyers. The flexibility in scheduling meetings and tailoring the process to suit individual needs contributes to a faster and more efficient resolution.
3. Less Stress
Any separation or divorce is going to be stressful but Family Mediation provides a calm and private environment for open communication, facilitating informed decisions about the future. This reduction in stress is particularly beneficial in addressing emotional and family-related matters, allowing parties to work together constructively.
4. Decision-Making Control
Mediation ensures that both parties retain control over decisions affecting them, including matters related to children. They can focus on solutions that work for them and their family. By fostering an environment where thoughts, ideas, and concerns are heard, mediation minimises the risk of contentious court-imposed decisions that may leave both parents dissatisfied.
5. More Amicable
A mediator guides the focus towards what is best for all involved, fostering an amicable atmosphere that promotes agreement. This contrasts sharply with court proceedings, which often escalate tensions and animosities, leading to less favorable outcomes for everyone.
6. Flexibility
Mediation adapts to your schedule, offering the flexibility of face-to-face or online meetings, longer or shorter meetings, lots of meetings or just one, incorporating professional advisors or not. This accommodates the diverse needs and preferences of individuals, ensuring that the process is as convenient and accessible as possible.
7. Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the mediation process. Discussions are held on a ‘without prejudice’ basis, meaning that whatever is said remains within the mediation realm and cannot be used against either party in court. This confidentiality empowers participants to speak openly and honestly, fostering an environment conducive to resolution.
In conclusion, mediation stands as a modern, client-centric approach to dispute resolution. Its many benefits make it a really valuable option to support separating couples work together to reach agreements on any of the issues that arise out of their decision to separate.
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