Introduction
Kayani Legal is a leading firm of solicitors. We deliver a wide range of legal services, among others, and our expertise in family law is one of our specialities. We understand that disputes related to family law can be stressful and emotional. Consequently, our divorce mediation lawyers offer professional family mediation services to help you resolve your family issues. It mediates problems peacefully and amicably.
What is Family Mediation?
Family mediation is a process of resolving disputes related to family law. It includes divorce, child custody, and property division through the help of a neutral third-party mediator. The mediator helps both parties to communicate and negotiate their differences. He also finds a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation is a voluntary process. Both parties must be willing to participate during the process.
Benefits of Family Mediation
Family mediation has many benefits, including:
- A cost-effective alternative to court proceedings.
- A confidential and private process which keeps your privacy intact.
- A quicker resolution than court proceedings which could be costly.
- A more amicable and cooperative solution. It becomes significant when children are involved.
Our Family Mediation Process
At Kayani Legal, we follow a structured family mediation process to ensure your disputes get resolved peacefully and amicably. Our mediation process includes the following steps:
Initial Consultation
We offer a free initial consultation to understand your situation and explain the mediation process.
Mediation Sessions
We arrange mediation sessions with a neutral third-party mediator who will help you and the other party to negotiate and find a mutually agreeable solution.
Agreement
Once an agreement gets reached, our mediation solicitors in London will draw up a legally binding agreement, which both parties will sign.
Our Expertise in Family Mediation
Our team of divorce mediation lawyers have years of experience in family mediation. We helped many clients resolve their family issues peacefully and amicably.
The Benefits of Family Law Mediation
- Cost-effective compared to court litigation
- Faster resolution
- Confidential and private
- Greater control over the decision-making process
- Improved communication between parties
- Preservation of relationships
Our Expertise in UK Family Law Mediation
Our team of experienced solicitors at Kayani Legal are trained in mediation techniques and have successfully helped clients navigate the complexities of family disputes. We assist with:
- Divorce and separation agreements
- Child custody and visitation arrangements
- Financial settlements
- Property disputes
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
How Kayani Legal’s Mediation Process Works
Our mediation process is tailored to the needs of each case. Generally, the process follows these steps:
- Initial consultation to assess your case
- Appointment of a qualified mediator
- Mediation sessions with both parties
- Negotiation and drafting of agreements
- Finalisation of agreements and legal documentation
Duration and Costs of Mediation
The duration of mediation depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to reach an agreement. On average, mediation takes between 3 to 6 months. Our mediation fees start from £500 per session, with additional costs for drafting agreements and legal documentation.
Common Reasons for Delays in Family Law Mediation
Some common reasons for delays in mediation include:
- Unwillingness to cooperate or communicate
- Complex financial or legal issues
- Emotional turmoil or high-conflict situations
- Disagreements over child custody or visitation arrangements
To avoid these issues, it is crucial to approach mediation with an open mind, focusing on the best interests of all parties involved.
Success Stories: Kayani Legal’s Expertise in Action
We have helped numerous clients resolve their family disputes through mediation. Here are five real-life examples of successful mediations we have facilitated:
- Case Study 1: Divorce mediation, resulting in a fair financial settlement and child custody arrangement
- Case Study 2: Prenuptial agreement mediation, establishing clear terms and financial responsibilities before marriage
- Case Study 3: Post-separation mediation, helping a couple divide their assets and agree on child visitation schedules
- Case Study 4: Property dispute mediation between family members, resolving the issue amicably and preserving relationships
- Case Study 5: Postnuptial agreement mediation, addressing concerns and solidifying terms after marriage
Tips for a Successful Mediation
To improve your chances of a successful mediation, consider the following tips:
- Be open and honest in your communication
- Focus on the best interests of all parties, especially children
- Be willing to compromise and find common ground
- Stay patient and remain committed to the process
- Choose an experienced and qualified mediator, like the solicitors at Kayani Legal
Case Laws on Family Mediation
This brief outline enumerates ten significant UK family law mediation cases, shedding light on the courts’ approach to mediation and its role in resolving family disputes. The cases reveal the importance of engaging in mediation and complying with mediation agreements.
B v. B (1996)
The case highlighted the court’s willingness to adjourn proceedings to encourage mediation.
Halsey v. Milton Keynes General NHS Trust (2004)
The court underlined that refusing mediation could result in cost penalties.
S v. S (2014)
The case stressed the importance of upholding the confidentiality of mediation.
A v. A (2001)
he court emphasised the need for full and frank disclosure in mediation.
Dunnett v. Railtrack (2002)
The court highlighted the potential cost consequences of ignoring mediation suggestions.
Brown v. Rice & Patel (2007)
The case showcased the court’s power to enforce mediated settlement agreements.
Farm Assist Ltd v. DEFRA (2009)
The court confirmed the mediator’s duty of impartiality.
L v. L (2008)
The case demonstrated the court’s authority to order costs against a party who refused to mediate.
T v. V (2009)
The case stressed the need for compliance with mediated agreements.
G v. G (2015)
The court highlighted the significance of considering mediation before resorting to litigation.
/faq
Q: Do you know if I need a solicitor for mediation?
A: No – You may not require a solicitor for mediation. It also suggested seeking legal advice before and after the mediation process.
Q: Is family mediation legally binding?
A: Yes – it is pertinent to note that family mediation can be legally binding, provided both parties agree to the terms of the agreement and execute a consent order unless duress or other substantial factors with cogent evidence get produced.
Our divorce mediation lawyers can help you in the process.
Q: Do both parents have to contribute towards mediation costs?
A: Yes – both parents must provide towards the costs of mediation. However, each parent’s contribution may depend on their financial circumstances, savings or income.
Q: What are the disadvantages of family mediation?
A: This is a pertinent question. One disadvantage of family mediation is that it may only be suitable for some cases. In some situations, court proceedings may be more appropriate. Additionally, mediation requires both parties to be willing to participate and communicate in good faith.
Q: What are the drawbacks of mediation?
A: Mediation is a voluntary process. Additionally, mediation may not be suitable for cases involving power imbalances. An example where is domestic violence has previously been exercised.
Our divorce mediation lawyers can help you in the process.
Q: What are the three principles of mediation?
A: The three principles of mediation are:
- Impartiality
- Confidentiality, and
- Voluntary participation.
Q: What if my ex-partner refuses to attend mediation?
A: In the circumstances where your ex-partner refuses to attend mediation. It can be court proceedings.
Q: Can one proceed directly to family court without mediation?
A: Yes, the mediation is not binding. One can proceed directly to family court without mediation. The court may require parties to attend mediation before proceeding with court proceedings.
Q: Do the parties have to meet physically during mediation?
A: No = It is only sometimes necessary for the parties to physically meet during the mediation process.
Q: What should one avoid during mediation?
A: During mediation, avoiding threats or ultimatums is crucial. Other factors may be interrupting the other party or refusing to listen to their point of view.
Q: How can one achieve success during mediation?
A: This is the pivotal question. To achieve success, it is vital to approach the process with an open mind. You may listen to the other party’s perspective. You may also be willing to compromise.
Q: What issues cannot get resolved through mediation?
A: Mediation may not be suitable for cases involving:
- Criminal activity,
- Cases of abuse or neglect, whether physical or otherwise, or
- Cases where one party is unwilling to participate.
Q: What happens if family mediation is unsuccessful?
A: If family mediation is unsuccessful. The parties may need to consider other options. It may proceed to court.
Q: What happens if the other party fails to attend mediation?
A: Both parties must agree if the other party fails to attend mediation. The process cannot proceed. The parties may need to consider other options, including court proceedings.
Q: What is the cost of obtaining child custody through the UK court system?
A: It varies. The cost of obtaining child custody through the UK court system may depend on the time spent in court.
Ask a question.
Why Us
If you are looking for an experienced family mediation solicitor in London or Ilford, contact Kayani Legal today.
- We have a team of expert solicitors with years of experience in family mediation.
- We offer a detailed initial consultation to understand your situation and explain the mediation process.
- We provide specialist legal advice throughout the mediation process.
Call us at +44 (0)20 8478 5797 or info@kayanilegal.co.uk to book your free initial consultation.