What is Mediation, and is it right for us?​

 

​Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where an impartial mediator helps you work toward practical agreements you both feel comfortable with.  It is not about blame or taking sides — it is about moving forward in a healthier way than through adversarial means. It is a constructive forum offering a calm, more practical way to sort things out together. ​

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Why choose mediation?

• It’s usually quicker, less expensive, and less stressful than going through court

• You stay in control of the decisions, rather than handing them over to a judge

• It helps reduce conflict, especially if you’ll continue co-parenting or sharing responsibilities

• It focuses on solutions, not battles

Many people use mediation alongside legal advice — they don’t have to choose one or the other.

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What to expect?

1. Initial Contact: I speak with each of you separately to understand the situation and confirm mediation is appropriate.

2. Mediation Sessions: We meet together in a neutral, supported space to work through key issues and explore fair solutions.

3. Agreements: I provide a written summary of outcomes, which you can take to your solicitor to formalise if you wish.

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Can mediation help us sort out parenting?

Yes. I can help you create a Parenting Plan that covers:

• When and how children will spend time with each parent

• Communication about school, health, and routines

• How you’ll make joint decisions

• Managing future changes in a respectful way

The goal is to put the children’s needs at the centre and reduce stress for everyone.

 

What about finances and property?

Mediation can help you talk through:

• Division of property, savings, and debts

• Ongoing financial support (where relevant)

• Budgeting for two households

• Any short-term arrangements while you transition

You can then take any agreements to a solicitor for legal drafting or advice.

 

Are mediation agreements legally binding?

Not automatically — but they can be. If you both agree on the outcome, you can have it made legally binding by a solicitor or through the courts. I can guide you on how to take that next step, if needed.

 

Is what we say in mediation confidential?

Yes. Mediation is a private process. What you say isn’t shared outside the sessions, and nothing you say can be used as evidence in court (unless both of you agree or it involves safety concerns).

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How many sessions will we need?

It depends on what you need to work through, but many couples reach agreement in 2 to 4 sessions. I’ll always keep things focused, efficient, and at your pace.

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Do we have to be in the same room?

Not at all. Mediation can take place:

• In person together

• In separate rooms (or online breakout rooms)

• Entirely online, with you both in different places

I’ll always make sure the process feels safe, respectful, and manageable for both of you.

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How much does it cost?

I offer transparent, flexible pricing — with fixed-fee options available. Mediation is typically far more affordable than using solicitors for everything, and the cost is usually shared between both parties.

Contact me for a confidential quote based on your situation.

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The answer is that mediation is suitable for most separating couples, even where there is high conflict—provided both parties are willing to try. I create a safe and respectful environment and can adapt sessions for shuttle mediation (you don’t need to be in the same room or call).

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Please contact me to discuss your needs further ....​