Mediation

In times of separation and conflict, mediation can be an extremely helpful method of improving communication, rebuilding trust and reaching workable solutions to disputes between parties with the assistance of a totally impartial third party. 

Family mediation produces jointly negotiated agreements which are proven to improve trust and understanding. Confidential sessions are held at a neutral location. Impartial mediators are able to help facilitate joint decision making without having to go through a drawn-out court process. 

A mediator begins each case with no preconceptions and is focused on offering you the best options for resolving a dispute, rather than prescribing a particular solution. Whether you are going through a separation, divorce or have a dispute regarding arrangements for children, mediation offers the ability to make agreements on issues relating to property, children and finances. 

A process which empowers - mediators empower all parties to present their concerns to each other, either face-to-face or through the mediator themselves. In cases which appear to have reached a dead end, power imbalances can be addressed in a manner which is swift and purposeful, while remaining non-confrontational. 

Avoids litigation - mediation offers a confidential and private route which allows you to reach solutions and start planning for the future, without resorting to the court process. 

Conducive to co-parenting - mediation encourages decisions to be made mutually by both parents, rather than court-ordered solutions which could lead to more conflict that could potentially negatively affect the children. By shielding them from the entire process, mediation offers parents a way to resolve their differences with minimal impact on children, build trust and improve communication. 

Less stress - court proceedings and the high emotions which go with them could potentially be much more a mentally draining process than family mediation, which aims to reduce the stress of all involved. For those with busy lives and demanding jobs, the ability to avoid the hassle of the courts can take some of the pressure away from what can be an anxious time. 

One of our Partners, Lynne Stratford, is a Law Society Accredited Mediator and offers impartial and independent mediation services to couples, taking referrals from solicitors across Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Lothians.