Family mediation has been growing as a method of resolving disputes in recent years. If you and your ex-partner are currently divorcing, or you’d like to find a resolution that would work best for you, you might want to consider family mediation. 

Courts are no longer the only option for resolving disputes over children and assets in divorce nowadays. Family mediation is a process where a professionally qualified mediator assists you in determining the terms of custody and financial support after a divorce. 

If you haven’t heard of this service before, we’ve prepared some tips to help your process run smoothly, and you get the most out of your sessions.

Find a qualified mediator

Before you start the process, you will need to find a mediator you trust. A competent mediator will encourage you to find a compromise that benefits both parties and provides a calm, pleasant environment. You can ask your solicitor for recommendations on a reputable mediator. Maybe you have someone in your family or a co-worker who was in the same situation and can refer you to someone.

Still, make sure to do your research. Check the website of the mediator you are considering hiring and ensure they have all the qualifications and accreditations to work in this field. 

Prepare for MIAM

The MIAM, or Mediation Information Analysis Meeting, will be the first meeting you attend with the person handling your case. During the first meeting, your mediator will immediately asses your situation and tell you whether you should seek the court’s assistance instead.

Your mediator should tell you about the cost and the specifics of what to expect throughout the process. MIAM can be done separately or with your ex-partner. 

Think about the circumstances of your situation and be ready to share them with the mediator. Be prepared to stay open and honest, as that will help you go through the process smoothly. Prepare any questions or worries you might have about the procedure. 

Remember you will need more than one session

Depending on how complicated your situation is, you may have to attend multiple sessions. One session lasts from 90 minutes to 2 hours. Cases regarding finances and parenting issues will need 2 to 3 sessions.

To ensure you go through the procedure as quickly as possible, always have the documents required ready with you. 

For example, a dispute involving children will require you to fill in form c100. It may seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Your mediator should be there to help you regarding any documentation you need. When working with children, your mediator may request to talk to them if appropriate and with your consent. 

Be ready on time with documents, as you don’t want to prolong the process more than necessary.

Try to remain calm

Having a conversation post-divorce is highly stressful and unpleasant for most people. Family mediation should help you resolve all disputes in a secure manner. 

You should tell your mediator if you have any concerns or worries regarding problems that could hamper the discussions. 

You can request separate sessions, so you don’t have to communicate directly with your ex-spouse. This style of mediation is more time-consuming but possible nonetheless.

Keep an open mind

Come into your session expecting to listen to the other side and try to understand the other person’s point of view. Your mediator compares both sides and will aid you in achieving an agreement with which you will be satisfied. 

Keeping an open mind will result in a much more successful session and, overall, better results.