What is the process of mediation?

You will attend an initial Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM) meeting alone with the mediator. At this stage, the mediator will decide whether mediation is suitable for you . If mediation is suitable the mediator will reach out to the other party to see if he or she is willing to mediate.  If the other party is willing to engage then the mediator will set up a joint session. At the joint session you will both sit down with the mediator and set an agenda for what will happen next.

If mediation relates to divorce finances, you will be asked to exchange financial disclosure of your financial circumstances with the other party. . This will include the disclosure of bank statements, property valuations, mortgage redemption statement and pension valuations. This is not an exhaustive list and will be bespoke to each case.  The mediator will produce a summary of the figures and, based on this information  you and the other party can then discuss  your settlement. The mediator cannot give you advice during the process or provide you with an outcome.

In limited circumstances, where appropriate , shuttle mediation can take place. This involves the mediator carrying out the mediation whilst at all times the parties remain in separate rooms.