MEDIATION IN OXFORDSHIRE and LEGAL AID

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If you are facing separation or divorce in Oxford, Banbury, Abingdon, Witney, or elsewhere in Oxfordshire, family mediation provides a way to resolve disputes constructively and avoid the significant stress and cost of court proceedings.

Family mediation uses a neutral, professionally-trained mediator to help you and your former partner discuss arrangements and reach mutual, binding agreements about your children and finances.

1. The First Step: Your MIAM

Before you can apply to the Family Court for issues like Child Arrangements or Financial Orders, you must first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

What it is a MIAM

An individual, confidential meeting with an accredited   mediator.

Why it's necessary

It is a mandatory legal step (unless an exemption   applies).

What happens

The mediator explains your options, assesses whether   mediation is suitable for your situation, and checks your eligibility for   Legal Aid.

In Oxfordshire, many mediation providers offer the MIAM both in-person across the county and conveniently via video call.

2. Resolving Disputes in Oxfordshire

Family mediation is highly effective for resolving key issues following a relationship breakdown, keeping the decisions in your hands rather than a judge's.

• Arrangements for Children: Creating a detailed Parenting Plan that covers      where the children live, when they spend time with each parent, holidays,      education, and health matters.
• Financial  & Property Matters: Reaching an agreement on the division of      shared assets, the family home, pensions, savings, and debts, as well as      spousal or child maintenance. This can be documented in a Memorandum of  Understanding (MOU) to be made legally binding by your solicitors.

Benefit: Mediation is generally faster, cheaper, and less adversarial than court. It focuses on communication and future-focused solutions, which is essential when co-parenting.

3. Financial Support and Legal Aid

The cost of mediation should never prevent you from finding a resolution. Several financial assistance options are available for families in Oxfordshire.

A. Legal Aid for Mediation

Legal Aid can cover all the costs of your family mediation if you meet the financial eligibility criteria set by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA).

• Eligibility Check: You must pass a means test (income and capital) to qualify. If you are on certain benefits (like Universal Credit or Income Support), you are often eligible.
• The Shared Benefit: If only one person qualifies for Legal Aid, the      other party still benefits greatly: the MIAM and the first joint mediation session are free for both of you.
• How to Apply: You must use an Oxfordshire-based mediator or service that holds a Legal Aid Agency (LAA) contract. They will conduct the official assessment for you.

B. The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme

If you do not qualify for Legal Aid, the Government's voucher scheme may still significantly reduce your costs.

• Up to £500: The scheme offers a financial contribution of up to £500 towards your joint mediation costs.
• Focus on Children: This is available for cases that involve or include discussions about arrangements for children.

4. Taking the Next Step

To start the mediation process, you need to contact a mediator accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMCA) in Oxfordshire. They will arrange your initial MIAM.

Area covered

Abingdon-on-Thames Banbury Benson Bicester Chinnor  Chipping Norton  Didcot Eynsham Thame Faringdon Henley-on-Thames Oxford Wallingford Wantage Witney    

Amity Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire is a historic and geographically diverse county in the South East of England, best known globally as the home of the academic powerhouse, the City of Oxford—often called the "City of Dreaming Spires." While Oxford is the undisputed cultural and administrative heart, the county's character is shaped by a collection of vibrant market towns and picturesque villages. Key towns include Banbury, a large commercial hub in the north famed for its cross and cakes; Bicester, rapidly growing and internationally recognized for its luxury outlet shopping village; Henley-on-Thames, famous for its prestigious annual Royal Regatta; and historic market towns like Witney and Abingdon-on-Thames. The county also acts as a gateway to the Cotswolds, boasting charming stone-built towns such as Woodstock (home to Blenheim Palace) and Burford, blending academic prestige with rural beauty and commercial vitality. 

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