Family Mediation in the UK
A faster, cheaper, and less stressful way to resolve disputes about finances and children on separation.
Why Choose Mediation?
The benefits of mediation compared to going to court
Cost Effective
Mediation typically costs 1,000-3,000 GBP total. Court proceedings can cost 15,000-50,000 GBP or more per person.
Faster Resolution
Most cases resolve in 3-6 months through mediation. Court can take 12-18 months or longer.
You Stay in Control
You and your ex make the decisions, not a judge. You know your family best.
Less Conflict
Mediation is collaborative, not adversarial. Better for ongoing co-parenting relationships.
Confidential
What is said in mediation stays confidential. Court proceedings are public record.
Flexible
Sessions can be arranged around your schedule. Online mediation is available.
The Mediation Process
From MIAM to legally binding agreement
MIAM Booking
Contact a mediator and book your Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting.
Your MIAM
Meet the mediator alone to discuss your situation, learn about mediation, and assess suitability.
Partner's MIAM
Your ex-partner attends their own MIAM (unless an exemption applies).
Joint Sessions
If both agree, you attend joint mediation sessions to discuss and negotiate.
Reaching Agreement
Work towards agreement on finances, property, and/or children arrangements.
Memorandum of Understanding
Mediator produces a document setting out what you have agreed.
Legal Advice
Take the agreement to a solicitor to be turned into a legally binding consent order.
Typical Timescales
- MIAM: 1-2 weeks to arrange
- First joint session: 2-4 weeks after MIAMs
- Sessions: Usually 2-3 weeks apart
- Most cases: 3-6 sessions total
- Total process: 2-4 months typical
- Plus: Time to convert to consent order
MIAM Exemptions
Circumstances where you do not need to attend a MIAM before court
Evidence of domestic abuse within the last 24 months.
A child is subject of a child protection plan or enquiries.
Risk of harm, child abduction, or irretrievable financial prejudice.
MIAM attended in last 4 months with no agreement reached.
Cannot locate other party or they are overseas.
Disability prevents attendance and no adjustments available.
Party is bankrupt so financial mediation not appropriate.
Other party not willing to attend mediation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prepare for Mediation with Splitifi
Use our tools to organise your finances, understand your options, and prepare for productive mediation sessions.