Family Mediation Manchester

As a couple, separating or divorcing can be hard enough but if you have children or property and finances to sort out it can get even harder. Many people in Manchester can attest to this and no doubt you have friends or family who have gone through similar situations.

Historically, if you couldn’t reach an agreement between yourselves you would have to go to court and let a judge decide on the outcome of your case. This way can be extremely stressful, time consuming and expensive.

But thankfully there is another way in Manchester which is cheaper, quicker and less stressful than fighting things out in court.

People are now choosing to try and resolve the issues surrounding their breakup in family mediation. In fact solicitors in Manchester and around the country are advising their clients to speak to family mediators as well as judges adjourning cases to allow the parties to attend family mediation.

But Just What Is Family Mediation Manchester?

Family mediation in Manchester is a voluntary process where separating or divorcing couples meet with a mediator to discuss the issues surrounding their breakup and help them come to a considered agreement. These issues often involve finances, property and child arrangements moving forward.

All mediations begin with both parties having a private and individual meeting with a family mediator, which is called a MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting). After this meeting and if all parties, including the mediator, consider the issues and circumstances are right for mediation then the first mediation can be arranged.

*** Did you know that even if you only want to have your case heard in court you still need to speak to a mediator and conduct a MIAM before your court application forms can be ‘signed off’. If you would like to book a MIAM please click here

All MIAMs and mediation sessions with We Mediate are conducted online which means both parties can join the mediation from a location convenient to them, the parties do not have to travel and they have more control over how their mediation session proceeds. All the family mediators at We Mediate have a wealth of experience with online mediation and are committed to ensuring the parties have the best mediation experience possible. We often deal with parties who are in different parts of the country or indeed one party in Manchester and the other over seas.

Family Mediation Manchester FAQs

1. What is Family Mediation?

Family mediation is a process where separating or divorcing couples meet with a neutral mediator to discuss and resolve issues related to their breakup, such as child arrangements, finances, and property matters.

2. What is a MIAM and is it mandatory?

A MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting) is a private meeting with a family mediator. It’s a prerequisite for those wishing to take their case to court, as it assesses the suitability of mediation for resolving their issues.

3. How does online mediation work?

Online mediation involves conducting MIAMs and mediation sessions via digital platforms, allowing participants to join from any convenient location. This approach offers flexibility and reduces the stress of travel.

4. How long does a typical mediation session last?

The duration of mediation sessions can vary, but they typically last around 1.5 hours. The number of sessions required depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of parties to reach an agreement.

5. What are the costs involved in family mediation?

Costs can vary depending on the number of sessions required. Our fee for a MIAM is £130 (£150 outside normal office hours). Our fees for mediation sessions are £130 per hour, per person. For mediation sessions outside normal office hours please contact us by click here.

6. Is the outcome of mediation legally binding?

The agreements reached in mediation are not automatically legally binding. However, they can be made enforceable through a consent order if both parties agree.

7. Can I still go to court if we can’t agree in mediation?

Yes, if mediation doesn’t result in an agreement, you retain the right to take your case to court. However, demonstrating that you’ve attempted mediation is usually required before court proceedings.

8. Do I need a solicitor during the mediation process?

While it’s not mandatory to have a solicitor during mediation, legal advice can be beneficial, especially when discussing complex legal and financial matters.

9. How is family mediation different from counselling?

Family mediation focuses on resolving specific issues and reaching agreements, whereas counselling addresses the emotional aspects of relationships and personal well-being.

10. What if my ex-partner and I are in different locations?

With online mediation, parties can participate from different locations, even internationally. This flexibility is particularly useful for individuals who are geographically separated.

How To Arrange Family Mediation In Manchester

Family mediation is quickly becoming the preferred method of dealing with the issues surrounding a relationship breakup. If you would like to speak to a mediator to find out more about family mediation in Manchester, please call We Mediate on 0333 567 1676 or click here to send us a confidential message.

Family Mediation Services For Manchester, Including…

Salford, Stockport, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Wigan, Ashton-under-Lyne, Altrincham, Sale, Eccles, Denton, Radcliffe, Chadderton, Prestwich, Hyde, Middleton, Stretford, Swinton, Droylsden, Whitefield, Farnworth, Urmston, Hindley, Romiley, Royton, Walkden, Gatley, Dukinfield, Irlam, Horwich, Hazel Grove, Failsworth, Shaw, Marple, Ramsbottom, Hale, Bredbury, Tyldesley, Cheadle Hulme, Levenshulme, Mossley, Little Lever, Kearsley, Heywood, Longsight, Flixton, Partington, Tottington, Bramhall, Cheadle, Didsbury, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Wythenshawe.