LIncolnshire family mediation legal aid & mediation

---

 If you're dealing with separation, divorce, or disputes over children and finances across Lincolnshire, including Lincoln, Grantham, Grimsby, Scunthorpe, or Boston, family mediation offers a practical, structured, and constructive way to find agreement without going to court.

This guide details how to access mediation services in the county and specifically how to use Legal Aid to cover your costs.

1. What is Family Mediation?

Family mediation uses an impartial, professionally-trained mediator to help separating couples discuss and agree on vital issues. It is often required as a first step—you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before you can apply to the family court in most cases.

Key Areas for Mediation in Lincolnshire

Area of Dispute - Lincolnshire Focus

Children's Arrangements

Setting up parenting plans, contact schedules, and making   decisions about schooling.

Financial Settlement

Division of property, savings, debts, and pensions, which   is especially relevant for homeowners or business owners in the county.

Co-Habitation Issues

Resolving financial and property disputes for couples who   were not married or in a civil partnership.

2. Accessing Mediation with Legal Aid (Free Service)

Legal Aid is government funding designed to ensure individuals on low incomes can access essential legal services, including family mediation. If you reside in Lincolnshire and meet the financial criteria, your mediation costs can be fully covered.

Legal Aid Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility is based on both your income and capital(savings/assets):

• Automatic  Eligibility: You are generally eligible if you receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Income-related Job Seekers Allowance/ESA, AND your capital is below the £8,000 limit.
• Low Income: If you are on a low income but not on the benefits listed above, a full financial assessment of your disposable income (after housing costs and tax) and capital will be carried out by a Legal Aid mediator.

The Advantage for Both Parties

If one party in the dispute is financially eligible for Legal Aid, the other party benefits significantly:

Service                                                                                                                          Cost Coverage (If ONE Party is Eligible for Legal Aid)

MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting)            Free for both parties.

First Joint Mediation Session                                                                          Free for both parties.

Subsequent Sessions                                                                                             Free for the Legal Aid-eligible party only.

 Action Point: To use Legal Aid, you must work with an accredited mediator or service in Lincolnshire that holds a Legal Aid Agency (LAA) contract. They will conduct the formal financial assessment and process the application for you.

3. The Government Mediation Voucher Scheme £500 Contribution.

An alternative source of funding is the government's Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, which is not means-tested (meaning it is available regardless of your income).

• Voucher Value: Up to £500 towards your joint mediation costs.
• Eligibility Focus: The dispute must involve arrangements for a child (even if financial issues are also discussed).
• How to Access: Your chosen Family Mediation Council Accredited mediator in Lincolnshire will assess whether your case qualifies and apply for the voucher on your behalf.

4. Finding an Accredited Mediator in Lincolnshire

When searching for a service in areas like Lincoln, Grimsby, or Scunthorpe, always check for the following:

• Accreditation:     Ensure the mediator is registered with the Family Mediation Council (FMC).
• Legal Aid Contract: If you require Legal Aid, confirm that the mediator or      firm has an LAA contract. Many solicitor firms and dedicated mediation  services in Lincolnshire (such as those with offices in Lincoln or Scunthorpe) offer this.

Areas Covered

Gainsborough Grimsby Lincoln Scunthorpe Skegness Sleaford Spalding    

Or to find out more about the mediation services we can offer, click below.