Family mediation differs a little from other forms of mediation, but the principles are the same. It is still a voluntary and confidential process in which the two people involved arrive at a decision which is best for them and are assisted by an impartial mediator.
It begins with the completion of a simple form in which you describe your circumstances, and once that is completed, you attend an initial individual meeting known as a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, or MIAM, at which you can discuss the situation and what you want to achieve from the separation process confidentially with the mediator. Usually, each participant attends this initial meeting alone, but you may bring a family member or friend if you wish. It is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the mediation process and decide whether it can help you.
You can download the Referral form here, and the Agreement to Mediate here.
After your MIAM, the other participant will be invited to take part.
After the two assessment sessions, and if both parties agree, the mediation will begin. There may be anything between one and five sessions, depending on what the participants want to discuss and on the complexity of the issues involved. When an agreement has been reached, the mediator will draw up a formal Mediation Summary for the participants.
Our family practice is governed by the Code of Practice for Family Mediators published by the Family Mediation Council. You can download a copy of the code here.
The meetings take place at venues across Hampshire and the surrounding counties.