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The Legal 500

Mediation

If you want to divorce or separate from your partner, mediation will often be recommended to you as a first step.

We can recommend local mediators who can help you to resolve these issues. Meeting with an impartial mediator means that you can discuss and agree solutions in a friendly, neutral setting away from the pressure and strain of court proceedings.

Mediation can help you resolve issues and make important decisions in a friendly and civil environment.

  • Arrangements for the care of your children
  • Financial arrangements
  • Dividing up your property and other shared assets
  • Your separation or divorce
  • How you and your partner will communicate in future
  • Any other related issues

The role of mediators

Mediators are experienced in dealing with complicated situations and helping clients find the best solutions in the interest of the whole family.

They also work closely with other professionals such as local solicitors, financial advisors and accountants as well as other experienced local mediators. This way, mediation can offer a comprehensive service to our clients. Mediation is available to anyone whether you are married or not, have children or not.

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Frequently Asked Questions

He's got to keep a roof over our heads hasn't he?

Non-residential parents have to pay maintenance for their children; hopefully the amount can be agreed though negotiation and if not then the CSA will decide. Each case is different.   If for example the Mum and the children stay in the family home then she may relinquish her claims over any other assets such as pension and savings in return.

How soon can I file for Divorce?

There is a 12 month barring rule which means you can start the divorce process after being married for 1 year. In England you can get divorced if your marriage has broken down irretrivably, usually proved by allegations of adultery or unreasonable behaviour, or if there has been 2 years' of continously living apart.

My aunt only has one bank account. Can I deal with this on her behalf?

If the bank allows, it is possible for your aunt to name you as a third party on her bank account. This will allow you to withdraw funds and sign cheques on her behalf. We can help your aunt complete the mandate form required to put this in place.

What am I entitled to in a divorce? Can she take me for every penny?

No.  Sometimes it may feel as though this has happened. The aim when sharing out matrimonial assets is to be fair.  Both spouses have to make full disclosure about their assets and debts before any decisions can be made about distribution, trying to hide anything won't work.  Factors which are important when sharing out the assets include the current and future needs of each spouse and any dependent children; the length of marriage and the age, earning capacity and contributions of each party.

Will I lose touch with my children?

Your aim should be that both parents still play an active part in the raising of the child/children.  Usually parents sort this out amongst themselves, although if there are problems mediation can be a good way to resolve this.  Going to Court should always be the last resort where children are involved.

Will we have to go to Court during our divorce?

No, getting a divorce should be an administrative excersise only and there are many options open to you that avoid going to Court.

See all frequently asked questions for Mediation

Thanks for your assistance with my case, your advice has been invaluable, and I would certainly recommend Banner Jones to my family and friends.

Mr P Sheffield
Kelly Parks
Kelly Parks

Thankyou Helena Downing for all your excellent service.

Mr & Mrs W, Alfreton
Helena Downing
Helena Downing

Mediation was an extremely easy process to follow. After years of dealing with other firms of solicitors, and protracted correspondence, a resolution was come to after 4 sessions. My mediator was unbiased but sympathetic.

Ms B, Heanor
Rob Stubbs
Rob Stubbs

I felt much better talking things through and would recommend mediation.

Mrs B, Bolsover
Rob Stubbs
Rob Stubbs

I was very satisfied with the mediation. It helped me to understand and clarify the issues and reach an agreeable outcome. Thank you!

Mrs B, Forest Town
Kelly Parks
Kelly Parks

97% of our clients would recommend us to a friend (Ongoing Client Survey)

See all testimonials for Mediation

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