Direct Mediation Services: Family Mediation in Manchester
Direct Mediation Services is proud to offer its family mediation service in Manchester.
What it’s all about
What Is the Family Mediation Service?
Family mediation offers an alternative to the contentious legal battles between the couple’s solicitors. Instead, it enables both participants to collaborate and create mutually advantageous proposals.
Even after a separation, participants engaged in family mediation sessions can reach decisions concerning children, property, and finances.
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Benefits
Advantages of the Family Mediation Process
Facilitating effective communication among all participants involved in the dispute.
Supporting participants in reaching mutually agreeable and amicable solutions.
Reduction of stress levels compared to those associated with court proceedings.
Focus on improving the welfare of the children concerned.
Considerable cost savings, relative to court proceedings.
Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAMs)
A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) serves as the first step in the mediation process, providing an opportunity for you to discuss your situation with a mediator and determine whether mediation could be advantageous for you and your family. Mediation meetings can be conducted either in-person or remotely via online communication platforms, such as Zoom or WhatsApp video.
Clients who are eligible for Legal Aid funding may also have access to this service. However, it is imperative that the Legal Aid assessment procedure is completed prior to attending the MIAM, which typically takes around 10 working days to arrange.
Financial Process
Mediation on financial matters involves the engagement of a mediator who provides legal information and facilitates communication, thereby promoting a constructive environment that is conducive to a mutually beneficial outcome. By impartially addressing matters with the assistance of a mediator, both participants can promptly arrive at a mutual agreement.
It is important to note that in family mediation a resolution does not become legally binding until a court order ratifies it.
Once a financial agreement has been reached, an Open Financial Statement (OFS) is written up to document financial assets, and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), outlines the specific terms of the agreed-upon proposals.
Child Arrangement Process
Mediation provides parents and children with an opportunity to express their thoughts and opinions, with due consideration given to the perspectives of both parents and sometimes that of the child. By prioritising the child’s voice and welfare, this mediation process aims to put the needs of the child first when putting child arrangements together.
Types of Mediation
Sole Mediation
Co-Mediation
Shuttle Mediation
Child Inclusive Mediation
Why Choose Our Family Mediation Service in Manchester?
Our Reviews
What our clients have to say.
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Very helpful and friendly service. Talked me through the mediation process and made it all seem much clearer and easier to understand.Code There was no complicated legal jargon and I came away armed with better knowledge and some helpful tips. Highly recommended!
I did it and now would like to recommend it. Dealt with Stuart, who was the man at the exact time. His approach and a great way of directing me with presenting my issues were surprisingly way easier than I projected the obstacle in my mind. Highly recommend it as this removes my blockage. A wealth of experience. Many thanks Stuart
Brilliant company and really easy to understand. Talked me through everything and explained it rather tahn rushed through it. Polite, courteous and sympathetic to each case. Couldn't say enough nice things about this firm, if your struggling to see your child then definitely give these guys a try.. I dealt with Stuart, and he did a fantastic job
I have been in contact Stuart at Direct Mediation Services on and off for about two years for various reasons and know him to be an utterly committed and decent person who I would (and do) wholeheartedly recommend to any other women (or men) in need of mediation. He is polite and calm, explains the whole process and makes you feel safe.
They were very helpful in clearly explain the process of mediation and were very friendly in all discussions. I would certainly recommend them to anyone..
Direct mediation are fantastic quick to respond and really efficient gets the job done
Lesley was very professional throughout and ensured we were both comfortable to start mediation together. Although it was a tough experience and brought up some baggage I feel it was very useful overall to reflect on our approach to parenting in the long term rather than focussing on the current uncomfortable situation. We've already started putting in place some of what we have discussed which I feel is already improving both our relationship with our child and each other.
Thank you very much for your services, I would recommend you guys to anybody going through this. You have been so professional and impartial while at the same time trying to get things resolved for everybody’s interests.
Thanks so much for helping me with this very difficult and sensitive issue . I am very grateful -
Lesley was a lovely kind person who listened without judging
Great service, handled the situation very sensitively
Provided a wealth of support centres and contact lines to assist with Domestic Abuse. Very experienced mediator with a very friendly manner. Excellent listener and tried very hard to work towards addressing a very complex situation
The mediator was kind, friendly and I was comfortable speaking openly with her, she was understanding and gave helpful advice and signposted me to useful services for me to use.
Just a big thank you.
My mediator was lovely and so helpful
Contact Us for Family Mediation Services in Manchester
If you are experiencing a family dispute and are seeking a confidential, cost-effective, and voluntary alternative to court proceedings, our family mediation service is here to help.
Our experienced and trained mediators can provide assistance in resolving a wide range of family-related issues, including child custody, divorce, and financial arrangements.
For those who are eligible, Legal Aid funding is also available. Contact us on 0113 468 9593 to schedule a meeting or attend to any questions you might have regarding mediation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mediation court-imposed?
Mediation is always voluntary. Nonetheless, mediation is solely applicable in suitable instances, such as those without any claims of domestic violence, emergency situations, or specific child-safeguarding circumstances.
Can I get free mediation in England and Wales?
To be eligible for Legal Aid, you must meet specific criteria. Legal Aid can provide financial assistance and cover the costs of mediation, but this is contingent upon meeting rigorous criteria.
What is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is a temporary initiative established to assist participants in resolving their family law disputes outside of court. Eligible participants may receive a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of mediation.
Is MIAM compulsory in England and Wales?
Before initiating legal proceedings for separation or divorce in family court, a MIAM is usually required. Courts encourage clients to work together with a mediator to seek resolution of disputes whenever possible.
How can I apply for a court order for finances and child arrangements?
Form E for divorce is a form used within the legal system of England and Wales, particularly in relation to the financial aspects of separation or divorce. Family mediation typically does not utilise it, but rather a court proceedings do. Meanwhile, the C 100 Form is used for parents asking the court to put an order in place for child arrangements. Know more about family emergency court order.