I can arrange individual or joint Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMs). The fee for this service is £90 for an individual session and £140 for a joint session. I do not charge VAT. My fees for mediation are listed on the Cost page.
The government now expects anyone who wishes to start court proceedings regarding family matters, e.g. orders for contact with a child, or financial orders in divorce proceedings, to first have a meeting with a qualified mediator.
This regulation has been introduced because it is generally believed that it is better for couples to reach their own agreements rather than go to court. Litigation is stressful, tends to exacerbate the conflict and is more expensive than mediation. Also the parties are not in control of the outcome. In my experience most couples reach agreement in mediation.
At the Information and Assessment meeting you will have the opportunity to talk to me about your situation and what you hope to achieve from mediation. I will explain to you how mediation works and answer any questions you may have. I will also try to work out whether mediation suits your situation, and whether it would help you reach an agreement with your former partner, who will also be invited to attend an individual meeting.
If mediation is found not to be suitable for your situation, or if one of the recognised exemptions apply to you, I will discuss other options with you. I will also complete form C100 if you application regards child arrangements, or form A in the case of an application for financial orders. You will need to take the relevant form to your solicitor or produce it to the court before you apply for a court order.