Best Family Law Practitioners in Leek

Sometimes mediation, like any form of communication, can cause some stress and anxiety. There may be a history of conflict or you do not like confrontation. However, mediation is seen as a conciliatory process and the mediator is there to help reduce any tension and to allow you both to communicate effectively. It is important each person enters the mediation process able to discuss matters freely. Being prepared for mediation and understanding what you would like to get out of the process will help you and allow you also to feel more confident. Our mediator can speak to you about this.

Our mediator is there to help you narrow the issues in dispute between you and to a point where it makes sense for both of you to agree on a way forward or a solution. The mediator will work with you both, to help find ways of reaching an outcome that you both consider will work.

Try to avoid blaming one person or the other. Focus instead on the problem, identify what you can agree and therefore what remains in dispute; and then engage in joint problem solving. Compromise should not be underestimated and it is always important to provide positive and constructive feedback during family mediation.

No two cases are ever the same and a 50/50 split is not always appropriate. It is also important to see what is financially at stake, to check that all of the assets and income have been disclosed and that the valuations are accurate. When considering the financial issues [hyperlink], a court is guided by a number of factors to include: the welfare of any minor children income, earning capacity, assets and financial resources financial needs, obligations and responsibilities standard of living age of each party and the length of the marriage health of each party contributions (financial and non-financial) conduct loss of certain rights It is important that specialist family law advice is obtained to consider these points and so that the financial outcome is both fair and reasonable. We will always ensure the best possible outcome for you.

The living arrangements for the children will need to be carefully considered when parents separate. In a lot of cases the parents are able to reach an agreement about what time the children will spend with each of them. This might not be easy but remember that although you have rights, more importantly, the children have a right to see their parents and to spend time with each of them. Where parents cannot agree matters then the court can assist. This can be by way of a child arrangements order (previously a residence order and/or a contact order). In some cases the child arrangements can be shared. A judge can appoint a welfare officer (known as a Cafcass officer) to prepare a report to assist the court in reaching a decision. What is most important is the welfare of the children and what is in their best interests. There are many books available to help discuss divorce and separation with your children. Have a look at our reading list [hyperlink].