So how much will Mediation cost?
With the average financial dispute in court costing more than £20,000, taking 2-3 hearings over 11 months or more, family mediation is certainly something you may wish to consider. Family mediation is the governments and the courts preferred method of dispute resolution when dealing with issues that may arise as part of your divorce, separation or ongoing parenting. Indeed, for the courts to start processing a hearing for your case they will want to see that you have at least considered mediation by way of attending a MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting).
MIAM
The purpose of a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is two fold. Firstly, it is for the mediator to give you more information about Mediation, its principles and the process. It is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about family law or family matters. We can give you information and help you consider all the possible options to aid you in deciding how best to move forward.
Secondly, the mediator will want to understand your current circumstances, what has been happening and what you would like to achieve, either in mediation or more generally. If you are considering making an application to court relating to a family matter, the court require that you first attend a MIAM; an accredited mediator can then sign and release the relevant court forms to you to confirm the attendance of your MIAM.
Joint/Shuttle Mediation Meetings
Should you choose to enter into Mediation after attending your MIAM you will begin joint Mediation meetings; these meeting last 1 ½ hours and are inclusive of all preparation and an outcome summary for the session. Shuttle mediation sessions last for two hours – a mediator will be happy to give you more information about shuttle mediation should it be right for your circumstances.
Costs
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Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM):
£100 per person
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MIAM certificate for court:
£50
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Joint Mediation Meetings (one and a half hours):
£150 per person
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Shuttle Mediation Meetings (2 hours):
£200 per person
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Preparation of Memorandum of Understanding and Open Financial Statement:
£140 per person
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Preparation of parenting plan/child arrangements plan:
£100 per person
