What is family mediation?

1 JULY 2025 16:45

Family mediation is a process where a trained independent mediator helps you work out arrangements with another participant. This is most frequently used after the breakdown of a relationship where there are disagreements around child arrangements, finances, or property.

The mediator will assist you to resolve any conflicts and find solutions that will benefit both of you. The mediator will also explain how to make the agreement legally binding, should you wish to do so. If you feel you are unable to sit together, you can request to sit in different rooms and have the mediator to go back and forth between you. This is called shuttle mediation.

Many people favour mediation because it gives both sides the freedom to decide what they agree and disagree with, unlike in court when a judge makes the final decision. Mediation can be an effective method of settling disputes since it can be less time-consuming and stressful than going to court. You still have the option to go to court if you are unable to reach to an agreement.

You must attend a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM) prior to filing an application with the court. A MIAM is a short meeting with a trained mediator during which you will learn more about mediation and the mediator will determine whether mediation is a good fit for your individual circumstances. You will have the chance to discuss your needs and priorities with the mediator in private during the MIAM.

You are exempt from attending an MIAM under certain circumstances. For instance, you may not be required to do so if any of the children in the application are involved in or the subject of emergency, care, or supervision proceedings; domestic abuse has occurred within your relationship with the other party; you have attended a MIIAM before; or the application is urgent. When requesting an exemption, you will need to produce supporting documentation, which must be sent to the court alongside your application.

If you require any help or advice in relation to any family law matters, please call us on 01554 755101 or email us at contactus@gomerwilliams.co.uk to arrange a free 30-minute appointment with our experienced Family Law Team. We offer family law services in our Llanelli, Ammanford, Cockett and Merthyr offices.

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