The mediation process encourages you to talk and listen to each other. Understandably, you may feel anxious about how your future will pan out, after a separation. This is normal and sometimes the hardest step is to begin. I offer a no obligation introductory meeting where I explain how mediation works.
Gathering financial information is often the first step and it can be daunting to know where to start. There is a distinction between disclosure of your assets versus what you would like to do with an asset or what you want to pay. I guide you through the requirements of financial disclosure and help you both look at future housing, income, and the arrangements for your children.
The mediation process is confidential, which encourages you both to discuss options without the fear of being bound by it. You each make proposals about money and what you believe is best for your children. It can be a challenge to say what you want for fear of upsetting the other, or perhaps you don’t know yet. The mediation space enables you to explore ideas, discuss everyone’s needs before you reach a decision together, if possible.
Engaging in mediation is usually in place of correspondence between your lawyers, which can be a relief to some separated couples, not only from a cost perspective but also the anxiety of not knowing when you will receive a letter and the content of it. I encourage my clients to check in with their solicitor during the process as it is important to obtain legal advice.
Mediation doesn’t provide advice or tell you what to do. It provides other perspectives, and practical solutions. In addition, my clients have the benefit of my experience of working in family law for over 11 years. It’s helpful to talk, to be heard by each other and try to understand each other’s viewpoint if you want to reach an amicable agreement.
My mediation service is a private, independent practice, in the centre of Bristol. If you have any questions, feel free to call me on 07510711453, email me at kate@lovegrovemediation.uk or fill out the contact form here.