This initial meeting provides an opportunity to tell us more about your individual set of circumstances. We will guide you through a straightforward and clear set of questions to achieve clarity and focus. There is no cost or obligation at this stage.

The process starts with what’s called a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting).

This covers the basics of mediation and lays out the structure of the sessions and mediation’s fundamental principles. Clients learn more of how the process works and the mediator has the opportunity to explain what can be expected and the legal parameters involved.

These sessions happen individually with clients; providing the opportunity for both parties to talk about how they’re feeling and what it is they hope to achieve via mediation, as well as to identify any immediate worries or concerns.

This is the first joint session and typically will last an hour and a half. It provides an opportunity for both parties to share their main priorities and concerns.

Some priorities may overlap, while others may differ. The aim is to create a clear agenda and structure for future sessions, helping everyone know what needs to be addressed and in what order.

At this stage, we look in more depth at what is truly important to each party and why. If relevant, the needs or views of children can also be incorporated to ensure they remain central to any outcomes. The goal is for each party to gain a better understanding of the other’s perspective.

Once the key needs are clear, the parties work together to develop practical and fair options. This stage may involve complex discussions, especially where shared finances or business interests exist. The focus is on finding solutions collaboratively, rather than defending entrenched positions.

Here, proposals and plans are tested and refined to ensure they are realistic and workable in practice. The mediator facilitates balanced discussion, helps explore potential outcomes, and guides the parties in evaluating options. Everyone’s active participation is essential to reach agreements that are fair and mutually acceptable.

If sufficient progress has been made, the mediator drafts a Memorandum of Understanding summarising the agreements reached. This is then ratified by the parties respective legal counsels, along with their financial statements and captures the essence of what has been decided and can be used as a reference for any matters that require further legal formalisation. It is common for some issues to be resolved in mediation and others through legal advice.