Family Mediation can be one of the most sensible and cost-effective ways of resolving problems when a couple’s relationship has broken down.

At Phillips Solicitors we offer this service through our sister company Haymarket Family Mediation, which specialises in helping people resolve disputes by negotiation and mediation.

What is Family Mediation?

Family Mediation is a process where divorcing or separating couples can meet to try and resolve disputes between themselves with the help of a trained Mediator, at our Town Gate offices in Basingstoke.

Mediation is commonly used to sort out finances, property matters and arrangements for children. Its aim is to help you both reach agreement and resolution quickly and with as little stress and upset as possible.

What does a Family Mediator do?

The Mediator’s role is to be impartial, to look after both of you and to help you to work through your options.

The Mediator will not tell you what to do or give you advice but will give you information about what the law says.

Can my children have a say?

Yes. Depending on how old your children are and providing they agree, along with both parents, the Mediator can arrange to spend some time with your children. Their meeting with the Mediator will be confidential.

How long will we be in Mediation?

Typically, each mediation meeting lasts for an hour-and-a-half. You might have three meetings over a period of four to six weeks, or you may find one meeting is enough.

The timescale depends very much on what will work best for you and your situation.

What happens after Mediation?

Once you have resolved your issues your agreement will be written down in a final document called a Memorandum of Understanding. This document is not legally binding but can be an important and a helpful way to confirm your agreement. You can then have the agreement drafted into a Court order if necessary.

How do I make an appointment?

If you would like to make an appointment please contact Sheila Parkes on 01256 854652 or send an email to [email protected]

You can also complete our or online form.

We are members of the Family Mediators Association (FMA) and of the Family Mediation Council and we follow their Standards and Codes of Practice.