Family Mediation in Cornwall

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Separation and divorce are challenging, but family mediation offers a constructive, less confrontational alternative to the Family Court, often based in Truro or Plymouth. In Cornwall, accredited family mediators help families resolve issues concerning children, property, and finances in a way that respects the unique needs of the South West.

Why Choose Mediation in Cornwall?

Family mediation is highly recommended, and legally required to be considered before applying to court (by attending a MIAM), for several key reasons:

1. Lower Stress and Conflict: Mediation provides a private, supportive, and neutral setting to discuss difficult issues, which is often significantly less stressful than the adversarial court process.
2. Parental Control: Unlike a Judge imposing a decision, mediation empowers you and your ex-partner to make your own tailored agreements, which are generally more practical and sustainable for your family's future.
3. Cost-Effective:  While not always free, mediation is typically far cheaper than funding  solicitors for court proceedings, especially when one or both parties qualify for financial assistance.
4. Flexibility:  Many Cornwall-based mediators offer remote (online/Zoom) sessions, making      the process more accessible for those living in rural areas like West Cornwall or North Devon, saving on significant travel time and cost.

Accessing Financial Support: Legal Aid and the £500 Voucher

Cost should not be a barrier to finding a resolution. In England and Wales, there are two primary routes for financial support for family mediation, both accessible through accredited mediators in Cornwall.

1. Family Mediation Legal Aid

Legal Aid is available to cover the full cost of mediation if you are on a low income or receive certain state benefits.

What Legal Aid Covers 

Legal Aid covers a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) for the eligible person.  The non-eligible partner is entitled to a FREE MIAM and their first mediation session covered by the Legal Aid Agency.

Legal Aid covers FREE joint mediation sessions for the eligible person.  This effectively means the first substantive step (MIAM and first session) is free for both parties if one is eligible.

How to Check Eligibility: Your chosen mediator, if they hold a Legal Aid contract, will conduct a formal assessment to determine your eligibility. You will be asked to provide evidence of your income, capital, and benefits.

2. The Government's £500 Mediation Voucher Scheme.

The Ministry of Justice has created a Family Mediation Voucher Scheme to encourage families to resolve their disputes outside of court.  this offers A contribution of up to £500 towards your mediation costs.

Eligibility

You must be in a dispute that concerns arrangements for a child (or a child-related dispute that includes a financial matter). It is not means-tested.

How it Works

The voucher is applied for and managed by the mediator. It   covers the costs of the actual joint mediation sessions but cannot be used for the initial MIAM.

Note: You can still be eligible for the £500 voucher even if you or your ex-partner qualify for Legal Aid, providing an extra layer of financial security.

Getting Started: The MIAM Requirement

The first step in mediation is attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

• This is a private meeting with an accredited mediator.
• The mediator will explain the process, assess your family's situation, and determine if mediation is suitable and safe for you.
• In most cases, you cannot apply to the Family Court for a Child Arrangements   Order or Financial Order until you have attended a MIAM. The mediator will  sign the necessary court form (C100 or Form A) if mediation is not suitable or if the other party refuses to engage.

Finding a Mediator in Cornwall

To ensure you receive high-quality service and access to funding, you must choose a mediator who is accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) and, if you need Legal Aid, one who holds a Legal Aid Agency contract.

• Amity Mediation has  accredited mediators in your area (e.g., Truro, Bodmin, Penzance).
• Amity Mediation is registered to use e the £500 Voucher Scheme    

Areas covered 

Bridgend Falmouth Bude Helston Camborne Bodmin Bridgetown Truro Carne Delabole Looe Newquay Penzance Saltash Port Isaac Redruth St Austell Tintagel Wadebridge    

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