Family mediation FAQ

What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a confidential, forward-focused process that helps separating couples resolve disputes around parenting, finances and property— without going to court. Family mediation also deals with wider family disputes such as grandparents contact, decisions on care of relatives and more.  It’s quicker, more affordable, and less stressful than litigation. In most cases, you must consider mediation before applying to court. 

Our mediators are trained, FMC registered professionals, who:

Facilitate calm, constructive conversations

Help you explore options and reach fair agreements

Ensure both voices are heard

Provide legal information (but not advice)

Support decisions that work for your children and your future

They remain impartial and do not make decisions for you.

The first step is to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) to find out if the process is right for you. You might be surprised to find it is – we know that where both former partners go and see a mediator for a MIAM, three quarters choose to go on to mediate, despite the fact that many don’t know anything about mediation before the meeting, or think their partner is so unreasonable that mediation will never work.

A MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting) is your opportunity to meet with the mediator 1-2-1 for up to an hour and helps you:

  • Understand the mediation process
  • Share your situation and concerns
  • Explore options for resolution
  • Decide whether mediation is right for you
  • Next steps
  • MIAMs are required before most court applications. Learn more from the Family Mediation Council

If both parties agree to mediate, we’ll schedule your first joint mediation session. Most families reach agreement within 2-4 sessions. If mediation isn’t suitable, we’ll guide you through alternative options including providing the necessary form/s for applying to court if required.

Mediation isn’t compulsory — but it is strongly encouraged. Before applying to court for issues involving children or finances, most people are legally required to attend a MIAM.  This is a chance to explore whether mediation could help resolve things more constructively and cost-effectively than going to court.

At Brighter Future Mediation, we believe in empowering families to find solutions that work for them — not those imposed by a judge. Mediation offers a safe, confidential space to be heard, explore options, and move forward. Even if communication feels impossible right now, our experienced mediators are trained to support you through it.

You won’t be forced to mediate, but choosing not to engage without good reason could affect court proceedings, including potential cost orders. That’s why the government is offering £500 towards the cost of mediation in cases involving children to explore mediation first — it’s often faster, less stressful, and more child-focused than litigation

All our services are fully online.  Additionally we offer shuttle mediation when it’s not safe or comfortable for both parties to be in the same space. This might be due to past trauma, emotional distress, or safeguarding concerns. The mediator moves between separate spaces, sharing information equally and staying neutral. This approach helps reduce tension and allows each person to focus on finding a resolution at their own pace.

CIM allows children (usually aged 10+) to share their views with a specially trained mediator in a safe, separate meeting. After agreeing with the child what information can be shared regarding their views and wishes this become the agenda for the adult mediation sessions.  This ensures decisions remain child-focused and supports healthier outcomes for families.

You may be invited to attend a MIAM. This doesn’t mean you’re committing to mediation — it’s simply a chance to understand your options and this step can save time and money.

Not automatically. However, you can apply for a legally binding consent order through the court. We’ll guide you through this process and connect you with legal support if needed.

Absolutely. Many clients find it helpful. You can:

Legal advice is helpful when:

  • Making decisions with legal implications
  • Reviewing proposed agreements
  • Preparing consent orders or divorce papers

Read more about legal advice during mediation.

Yes, we offer hybrid mediation, where solicitors join sessions. This is especially useful for financial matters and can speed up resolution. Ask us if this option suits your case.

If mediation doesn’t result in agreement, you can still take your case to court. However, over 90% of our clients reach resolution — well above the national average of 73% (Family Mediation Council, 2019).

You can return to mediation to revise your agreement. If your arrangement is legally binding and not followed, enforcement through the courts is possible. Although, people tend to stick to arrangements when they’ve been involved in the decision-making process, rather than being ordered by a Judge.