Mediation

The Family Mediation Service

The family mediation service allows you to appoint an impartial, family mediation solicitor to help you explore the possibilities for resolving any conflict and to facilitate negotiations in an even-handed way. The mediator cannot give you legal advice but will provide you both with information and will create a safe space for direct discussions. It is for the participants to make decisions based on the information provided.

For mediation to be successful, it is often necessary to attend a number of joint sessions to enable you to gather relevant information, seek further support, if needed, and discuss all relevant issues. If you are able to reach a set of proposals, these will be confirmed in a document called a Memorandum of Understanding which will also contain relevant information to be provided to both parties’ legal representatives.

Discussions in mediation are confidential with the exception of financial disclosure or a risk of harm situation. Mediation is one of a range of non-Court dispute resolution methods which you will be given information about if you were to attend mediation.

Specialist Mediation Solicitors

Deborah Leask, Katie Taft and Asya Panchalieva are experienced family solicitors who are also trained mediators.

With their dual qualification and experience, they are able to help steer you through this difficult process and avoid the need for Court proceedings. Deborah, Katie and Asya are members of Phoenix Mediation, a network of local lawyer-mediators in the Dorset and Hampshire area who meet regularly to exchange information and updates.

Deborah and Katie are also accredited mediators with the Family Mediation Council. Deborah, Katie and Asya are able to offer participants one off financial contribution towards joint mediation through the current Government Mediation Voucher Scheme.

Get in touch with a member of the team for more advice and guidance.