The mediator’s role will be to help you to identify what the issues are, then help you towards finding solutions through face-to-face discussions. You will meet in a neutral and safe environment and your discussions will progress at a pace that you are comfortable with.

The offers that are exchanged in the mediation process are “without prejudice” meaning that they are private and cannot be reported to the court. The intention is to encourage openness and a willingness to negotiate.

Once an understanding has been reached that could be confirmed as a final agreement, whether it relates to finances or children, the mediator will then help to draw up a formal agreement. They will work with your solicitors by informing them of the outcome of the discussions.

Do I need a lawyer for mediation?

Mediators will always recommend that you obtain legal advice alongside the mediation process. Maroof Solicitors are here to support you through this process.  

It is helpful to have independent legal advice as solicitors can advise you on what to consider and what financial information you will need. We will ensure you have the right component parts of your settlement and advise whether it’s fair or not.

A mediator can give you legal information (including the powers of the courts to make certain orders) but they can’t give you legal advice. The mediator will be impartial and cannot tell you whether or not the settlement is fair.  We will also assist with drawing up a formal agreement that can be incorporated into a court order.