FAQs

 Costs vary by mediator, but it is significantly cheaper than a court battle. Ask for a clear breakdown of the cost per session, the MIAM fee, and any charges for drafting the final documents (MOU/OFS). 

 Yes, it is available for mediation services if you are on a low income or certain benefits. If one person is eligible for Legal Aid, their entire mediation is free, and the MIAM and first session are also free for the non-eligible party. 

 No, the agreement reached in mediation (documented in the Memorandum of Understanding and Open Financial Statement) is not legally binding on its own. You must take these documents to an independent solicitor to be drafted into a formal Consent Order, which is then approved by the court to make it legally binding. 

 This is a government-funded scheme that provides a contribution of up to £500towards the cost of mediation for disputes concerning arrangements for children 

 No, the agreement reached in mediation (documented in the Memorandum of Understanding and Open Financial Statement) is not legally binding on its own. You must take these documents to an independent solicitor to be drafted into a formal Consent Order, which is then approved by the court to make it legally binding. 

 For financial mediation, you must provide full financial disclosure, including proof of income, assets, debts, and pensions. Your mediator will tell you exactly what is required. 

These questions help clarify what the mediator will and will not do.

  No, the mediator is a neutral facilitator and cannot give either person legal advice or tell you what is "fair." They will, however, provide legal information to help you make informed decisions. 

 It is highly recommended to have a solicitor for independent legal advice alongsidethe mediation process, especially for complex financial matters. The solicitor can advise you on the fairness of any proposals you agree upon. 

Yes. A mediator's core role is to remain neutral   and impartial. They do not take sides, give opinions, or make judgments. They   are there to ensure both parties are heard and negotiate effectively.

 No, the agreement reached in mediation (documented in the Memorandum of Understanding and Open Financial Statement) is not legally binding on its own. You must take these documents to an independent solicitor to be drafted into a formal Consent Order, which is then approved by the court to make it legally binding. 

 Yes, through Child-Inclusive Mediation (CIM). With the agreement of both parents, a specially trained mediator can meet with the children   (usually aged 10 and over) to hear their views and feelings, which are then relayed to the parents for consideration. 

When selecting a service, don't be afraid to ask direct questions about their credentials and experience:

• Are you accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC)?
• How  many mediations do you conduct each year?
• Do you offer Legal Aid?
• Do you have experience in cases similar to mine (e.g., complex pensions,      multiple properties, international children arrangements)?

The divorce process in Amity Mediation Services involves filing a petition for divorce, serving your spouse with the petition, and attending court hearings to resolve any disputes regarding child custody, support, and property division.

The divorce process in Amity Mediation Services involves filing a petition for divorce, serving your spouse with the petition, and attending court hearings to resolve any disputes regarding child custody, support, and property division.

Child custody in Amity Mediation Services is determined based on the best interests of the child, taking into account factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, each parent's ability to care for the child, and the child's preference if they are old enough to express it.

Legal separation in Amity Mediation Services is a court order that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each spouse while they are living apart. It does not officially end the marriage, but it can be a good option for couples who are not ready to divorce but want to live separately. Divorce, on the other hand, officially ends the marriage and allows each spouse to remarry if they choose to do so.