If a couple undergoes a separation, it can often become a very stressful and uncomfortable experience for both people.

Trying to come to terms with the emotional turmoil can be bad enough, but if there are other matters to sort out and agree, such as who gets the children, what happens to the property, how the assets and liabilities are to be split, how much maintenance is paid then it can often be very difficult and painful to reach an agreement and sort things out.

Hopefully in most cases, any issues and problems can be resolved sensibly and amicably. If it is not possible to reach an agreement then usually the last resort is to consider going to court. However, there is an alternative to going to court and that is by using a process called mediation.

Mediation is a process whereby an independent family law trained mediator is jointly appointed by both parties to help sort things out by having face to face meetings to discuss and hopefully agree matters relating to all sorts of problems following a separation such as separation, children and finances.

If mediation takes place, it is important that there is complete transparency and full co-operation between both parties and their lawyers and the mediator. Legal advice is given to both parties throughout the mediation process and it needs both party’s lawyers to be experienced and trained in relation to using the mediation process.

Sometimes going to Court can be the best option, particularly if there are allegations of fraud, abuse or mental health but there are other occasions when using mediation is a quicker, cheaper and more effective and amicable way of resolving matters.

If you are separated and need help in relation to your family matters then you think you may need mediation help and advice then please contact us at Seatons Solicitors on 01536 276300 or use our online enquiry form.