Family Mediation Week – How to save money, time and stress when divorcing

January usually sees a dramatic rise in the number of parents deciding to live apart, as the various pressures that go together with the Christmas period can be the final straw for fragile relationships.

Yet once the life-changing decision to separate has been reached, many still do not know which way to turn, as there are many difficult questions to consider:

• Who lives where?
• Where will the children live?
• How can we make sure we both spend time with the children?
• How will we divide up our finances?
• What about debts and pensions?
• What happens to family pets?

The aim of Family Mediation Week 22-26 January is to help parents who have decided to separate or divorce during 2024, to avoid courtroom confrontation, by raising awareness of the benefits of family mediation.

The process of family mediation involves an independent, professionally trained mediator helping separating couples to reach agreements on childcare, financial and property issues, without involving the court. In this way, professional mediators help empower people to create long-term solutions for their personal circumstances, as they remain in control of how childcare, property and finances are resolved.

Taking these issues to court means the judge has the final say on how things are divided between you. Not only do couples lose control over the decisions that need to be made, going to court is hugely expensive, subject to lengthy delays and increases the level of stress and hostility associated with family breakdown.

At Tisshaws we have three trained family mediators, Richard Adams, Hana Khodabocus and Lidia Farrell, all experienced in helping couples to reach agreements without having to go through the courts.

Further information about Family Mediation Week can be found here https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/fmw/

If you are considering divorce or separation, we offer a one-hour no obligation consultation for £100 (incl. VAT) with one of our team of family lawyers. At this meeting we can discuss your personal circumstances and explain what options might work best for you and your family.

As mediation is a totally impartial process, we are unable to offer you mediation services if one of our lawyers has already advised you about your case. So please ensure that you specify that you are looking for a mediator when you make your initial enquiry.

You can book an initial consultation with one of our specialist family lawyers by calling us on 01444 472700, emailing info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk or completing the form below.