News

Understanding Family Mediation: A Practical Guide

Family disputes can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. Whether it is the breakdown of a relationship, disagreements about finances or arrangements for children, these issues often bring emotional and practical difficulties. Traditionally, many people turn to the courts for resolution, but this can be time-consuming, costly, and stressful. With the Family Court now actively encouraging parties to enter Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) and potentially imposing costs sanctions on those who refuse to do so without good reasons, alternatives to court must be considered at all stages.

What is Family Mediation?

Family mediation is a voluntary process where an impartial mediator helps people in conflict communicate more effectively and work towards mutually acceptable solutions. It is commonly used for:

• Financial arrangements after separation or divorce
• Property division
• Child arrangements, including living and contact schedules
• Future planning, such as schooling or relocation

Unlike court proceedings, mediation is confidential, flexible, and focused on collaboration rather than confrontation.

How Does Mediation Work?

• Initial Meeting (MIAM): Each person meets the mediator separately (in person or remotely) to discuss the process and assess suitability.
• Joint Sessions: Both parties meet with the mediator to identify issues, explore options, and work towards agreements. In appropriate circumstances the parties need not be in the same room at the same time – this is called “shuttle” mediation.
• Outcome: Agreements reached in mediation can be formalised into legally binding documents with the help of independent solicitors.

Benefits of Mediation

• Cost-effective: Mediation is generally much less expensive than litigation.
• Faster: Sessions can be arranged quickly, and agreements reached in weeks rather than months or years.
• Less adversarial: Mediation encourages cooperation, which is particularly important where children are involved.
• Control: Decisions are made by the parties, not imposed by a judge.

When is Mediation Not Appropriate?

Mediation may not be suitable in cases involving domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns, or where one party is unwilling to participate. In such situations, court intervention may be necessary.

About Xanthy Papageorgiou

Xanthy Papageorgiou is a Senior Associate and Mediator in the Family team at Sinclair Gibson.

As a mediator, Xanthy provides a calm, structured environment where both parties can communicate openly and work towards practical solutions. Xanthy’s legal background ensures that discussions remain focused on issues that can be formalised into agreements, giving clients confidence that the process is both constructive and legally sound.

Is Mediation Right for You?

If you are separating or facing family conflict, mediation can provide a structured, respectful way to resolve issues without the stress of court proceedings by finding workable solutions for the future.

For more information about family mediation and how it works, please contact Xanthy Papageorgiou at xanthy.papageorgiou@sinclairgibson.com.