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When you are experiencing a family breakdown, finding a constructive path forward can feel overwhelming. Disputes about finances, children, or living arrangements can create significant emotional strain and uncertainty.
Family Mediation offers a practical way to resolve these issues collaboratively, without the need for Court proceedings. If you are going through a family related dispute, our expert Family Mediation Solicitors in Romsey can help.
At Parker Bullen, we offer a dual approach. Some of our team are trained Family Mediators and can act as neutral facilitators to help separating couples and families reach clear, workable agreements.
Alternatively, if you are taking part in Family Mediation with another provider, our Family Law Solicitors can support you throughout the process by offering independent legal advice and helping you understand your rights at each stage.
Please note that a legal professional cannot act as both your Mediator and your Lawyer in the same matter.
Whether you are considering Family Mediation for the first time or are already engaged in the process, we provide clear, practical guidance based on your needs and role.
We can support you with:
- Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMs)
- Family Mediation (delivered by trained Mediators within our team)
- Independent legal advice (where you are taking part in Mediation with another provider)
- Hybrid Mediation
- Child Inclusive Mediation
- Non-Court Dispute Resolution options
Contact our Family Mediation Solicitors in Romsey
Our experienced Family Mediation Solicitors in Romsey can help you resolve sensitive family matters without going to Court. Contact us today by calling 01794 513466 or complete our Contact Form.
Our Family Mediation Services in Romsey
Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAMs)
A MIAM is a legal requirement before most family law applications can be made to the Court. The meeting helps determine whether Mediation is a suitable method of resolving your dispute. One of our trained Family Mediators in Romsey can conduct this meeting, either individually or jointly, offering impartial guidance about the Mediation process and other forms of Non-Court Dispute Resolution.
During the MIAM, the Mediator will:
- Explain what Family Mediation involves
- Describe how the process works in practice
- Outline the benefits of resolving disputes outside of Court
- Assess whether your situation is suitable for Mediation
They will also consider any concerns, such as domestic abuse or safeguarding issues, that may make Mediation inappropriate. If Mediation is not suitable or does not proceed, we will provide a signed MIAM certificate (FM1 form) to enable you to make a Court application.
Family Mediation
Our Family Mediation service supports separating couples and families in reaching amicable agreements regarding children, property, finances, and other matters.
As impartial professionals, our Family Mediators in Romsey help both parties communicate more effectively, reduce conflict, and focus on constructive, long-term solutions.
We do not provide legal advice during Mediation, but we encourage both parties to seek independent legal guidance alongside when appropriate.
Find out more about this approach on our Family Mediation service page.
Hybrid Mediation
Hybrid Mediation offers a flexible structure that allows each party to have their own Lawyer present during the Mediation process. This model is particularly helpful in complex or high-conflict cases, such as those involving financial assets, business interests, or safeguarding concerns.
While our Mediators facilitate the discussions, your independent Solicitor can be involved to provide legal advice throughout, ensuring that any decisions made are legally sound.
If you are interested in this process, we can advise on whether Hybrid Mediation is appropriate for your circumstances and signpost you to the relevant professionals.
Child Inclusive Mediation
Where appropriate, Child Inclusive Mediation gives children a voice in the decision-making process during family disputes. This approach ensures that their views are heard in a sensitive and age-appropriate way.
Our Mediation Solicitors work with children directly and are also trained on Child Inclusive Mediation. This process empowers children while reducing pressure on them, helping to ensure that the arrangements made reflect their needs and preferences.
Non-Court Dispute Resolution
We encourage families to explore Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) wherever possible. In addition to Mediation, our Family Law Solicitors in Romsey can advise on other NCDR options such as Resolution Together, negotiation, collaborative law, or arbitration.
While our Mediators facilitate dialogue neutrally, our Solicitors can provide legal advice independently if you are participating in Mediation elsewhere. This dual approach helps you stay fully informed while aiming for a cost-effective and constructive resolution.
To learn more, please visit our Non-Court Dispute Resolution page.
Frequently asked questions about Family Mediation
What is the role of a Family Mediator?
A Family Mediator helps separating or divorcing parties resolve disputes without going to Court. They act as a neutral third party, facilitating discussions and guiding parties toward practical, workable solutions on matters such as child arrangements, finances, or property.
Please note, a Family Mediator does not provide legal advice, and individuals or couples will need to seek support from a Lawyer alongside Mediation.
If you require support from a Family Mediator or have any questions, please get in touch with our team.
Can my Solicitor be my Family Mediator?
No, your Family Lawyer cannot also act as your Family Mediator in the same matter. The roles of a Solicitor and a Mediator are different, and it is important they remain separate.
A Family Mediator is a neutral, independent professional who helps both parties reach an agreement. They do not take sides or give legal advice to either person during the process. Their role is to facilitate open and balanced discussions.
A Solicitor, on the other hand, acts in your best interests and can give you legal advice before, during, or after Mediation. If you need legal support, you will need a separate Family Lawyer from your Mediator.
This ensures that Mediation remains fair, and that you still have access to independent legal advice when needed.
What are the costs associated with Family Mediation?
Costs can vary depending on the complexity of your situation and the number of sessions required. MIAMs and initial consultations may be offered at fixed fees, while ongoing Mediation is typically charged per session. Family Mediation is usually more cost-effective than Court proceedings, and legal aid may be available in some cases.
What happens if we can't reach an agreement through Family Mediation?
If Mediation fails to reach a resolution, you may need to pursue other legal routes, such as Court proceedings. However, anything discussed during Mediation is confidential and cannot be used against you in Court. Your Family Mediator will advise you on your options and next steps, including whether a Consent Order can formalise any partial agreements reached.
How long does the Family Mediation process usually take?
How long Family Mediation takes varies depending on the nature of the dispute. Some issues can be resolved in just a few sessions, while more complex cases may take longer. On average, Family Mediation takes between two to five sessions, each lasting around one to two hours. The pace can be tailored to your needs and availability.
Contact our Family Mediation Solicitors in Romsey
Our experienced Family Mediation Solicitors in Romsey can help you resolve sensitive family matters without going to Court. Contact us today by calling 01794 513466 or complete our Contact Form.
