In cases where there is trust and the desire to remain on good terms, there are alternatives to going to Court. Mediation can help people to come to an agreement, about arrangements following on from divorce or separation, on both finances and arrangements for children.
Mediators help people consider, what they each want and can help them reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Mediators do not negotiate or advise, rather they facilitate. Mediation does not remove the need for lawyers. Solicitors do not attend mediation, but individuals will often have sought legal advice in advance.The outcome from mediation, is referred back to each parties solicitors so they can obtain independent legal advice, to ensure that the outcome reached at mediation is a fair one. If both sides are happy with the outcome, it can then be embodied in a Court Order or formal agreement.