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Family mediation for individuals and families with over £1million in property assets or multiple properties. Avoid complexities by working with our trained mediators to settle your financial & property matters What is complex asset mediation Helping High-Value Families Resolve Financial Disputes Amicably. Designed for individuals and families with over £1 million in property assets or multiple properties. High-value financial disputes can be challenging, but our expert mediators help you navigate them with clarity, fairness, and discretion. How does complex asset mediation work Complex asset mediation is a structured process that helps separating couples and families divide significant financial assets without resorting to costly and lengthy court proceedings. This service is ideal for cases involving: - Multiple residential properties - High-value real estate portfolios - Overseas property holdings - Investment properties and rental income - Trusts, pensions, and business assets Why choose mediation over litigation Confidential & Private – avoid the public nature of court disputes. Cost-Effective – mediation is significantly less expensive than prolonged legal battles. Tailored Solutions – agreements are designed around your unique financial situation. Faster Resolution – avoid court delays and resolve disputes in weeks instead of years. Reduced Stress & Conflict – a cooperative approach ensures better long-term relationships, especially when children are involved. How does the mediation process work 1. Initial Consultation – we assess your financial situation and discuss your goals. 2. Disclosure & Valuation – full financial transparency is essential; all assets are disclosed and professionally valued if necessary. 3. Negotiation Sessions – we facilitate structured discussions to find equitable solutions. 4. Agreement Drafting – once consensus is reached, we provide a legally recognised Memorandum of Understanding. 5. Legal Finalisation – a solicitor can convert the agreement into a legally binding Consent Order. Who can benefit from complex asset mediation - High-net-worth individuals going through divorce or separation. - Couples with multiple real estate assets needing fair division. - Families managing inherited or shared property portfolios. - Business owners concerned about protecting commercial assets. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you have over £1 million in property assets or multiple properties and need assistance in navigating a complex financial separation, our expert mediators can help. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit

Mediation offered through preventative and mitigation conflict management for the workplace. Avoid complex tribunals and restore a positive work environment What is workplace mediation At ark mediation, we specialise in Workplace Mediation, helping businesses and employees resolve disputes quickly, fairly, and confidentially. Our services prevent workplace conflicts from escalating into costly and time-consuming tribunal claims, fostering a more positive and productive working environment What is workplace mediation Workplace mediation is a structured, voluntary process where an independent mediator helps employees and employers resolve conflicts constructively. Unlike formal grievance or tribunal procedures, mediation focuses on mutual understanding and long-term solutions rather than blame and punishment. Why choose mediation over tribunal Cost-Effective – Tribunal cases can be extremely expensive for businesses, whereas mediation is a lower-cost alternative. Faster Resolution – Mediation can settle disputes within days or weeks, whereas tribunals can take months or years. Confidential & Non-Adversarial – Unlike public tribunal hearings, mediation is private, fostering open and honest discussions. Preserves Workplace Relationships – Mediation encourages dialogue and compromise, helping employees and employers maintain a professional working relationship. Flexible & Custom Solutions – Outcomes are tailored to the needs of both parties, rather than rigid legal rulings. Our workplace mediation services We offer two core services to help businesses manage and prevent workplace disputes: 1. Conflict prevention and early intervention Proactive mediation before conflicts escalate. Training sessions for HR teams and managers on conflict resolution. Mediation policies to integrate dispute resolution into workplace culture. Creating a safe space for employees to express concerns early. 2. Post-conflict resolution and management Mediation for employee disputes, team conflicts, and employer grievances. Restoring effective communication between colleagues. Facilitating return-to-work discussions after grievances or disciplinary actions. Helping to rebuild trust and productivity in teams affected by workplace disputes. Who can benefit from workplace mediation Employees and managers experiencing interpersonal conflicts. HR professionals seeking efficient alternatives to tribunals. Businesses wanting to improve workplace culture and reduce turnover. Teams experiencing ongoing tension or breakdown in communication. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you're facing workplace disputes or want to proactively prevent conflicts, ark mediation can help. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit

Discover our transparent pricing for family mediation, MIAMs, and dispute resolution. Affordable fees with clear, upfront pricing. A cost-effective alternative to lengthy legal battles Mediation fees The information below outlines our standard fees. We operate a simple and transparent pricing structure with prices for our standard services starting from £90.00. Note: we do not offer Legal Aid. Standard Family Mediation Pricing MIAM Standard MIAM £130.00 -Includes FREE Court Form, upon request -Conducted over video call -+£30.00 for in-person -Up to 1hr of session time Fast Track MIAM £150.00 -Only available via video call -24-48hr Form Turnaround -Plus £25.00 for Court Form, upon request -Up to 1hr of session time Do I Need a MIAM? MEDIATION Online Joint Mediation £130.00 -Per hour, per person (+£30.00 for face-to-face) Shuttle Mediation £180.00 -Per hour, per person Child Mediation £190.00 -Per hour, per parent (incl. child) 6-Month Follow Up FREE Voucher Scheme DOCUMENTATION C100 / Form A FREE -Included with MIAM Open Financial Statement £95.00 -Per person Parenting Plan £90.00 -Per parent Memorandum of Understanding £95.00 -Per person Free Consultation We do not charge VAT. Appointments changed/cancelled with less than 2 working days notice will be charged at a fee of £90. Charges for MIAM's and mediation are per person, per session and are payable in advance. Specialist Family Mediation Pricing 1. Complex Asset Financial Mediation This service is for clients requiring support with a financial settlement and that own over £1 million in property assets (either through one or multiple properties). Mediation sessions relating to these matters start at £199.00 per person, per hour. 2. Neurodiverse Family Dynamics Mediation This service is for clients with children that have unique needs. Our team work with a broad range of professionals specialising in child therapy including ADHD, dyslexia, or sensory processing disorders. Mediation sessions for this service start at £240.00 per hour. Fixed Fee Legal Package Fixed Fee Legal Package Our fixed fee legal package offers you the benefit of an end-to-end service including mediation and the legal aspects of formalising your separation, settlement and arrangements. The cost of this service includes the following: 1. A MIAM for both parties 2. The divorce application fee (set by the government) 3. Independent legal advice from an ark mediation partner law firm, for a fixed cost of £850.00 4. Mediation to agree terms. This can go to court for approval 5. £850 per consent order. Depending on the complexity of your order the maximum you will pay is £5,000 Workplace Mediation 1. Workplace Mediation Services: • Half-Day Mediation: Typically lasting up to 4 hours, the fees range from £500 to £750 • Full-Day Mediation: Spanning approximately 7 hours, standard rates are between £1,000 and £1,500 2. Conflict Resolution Training: • One-Day Training Courses: These sessions are designed to equip employees with strategies to manage and resolve workplace conflicts. Prices typically range from £295 to £550 per participant

Discover Ark Mediation's simple 4-step family mediation process. From MIAM to final agreement, learn how we help families resolve disputes effectively What is the family mediation process The law in England now requires all couples to demonstrate they have attempted to resolve separation disputes through mediation. Whilst a mediator cannot issue you your divorce, the mediation process will prepare you with all the necessary documentation to help you avoid the need to attend court and prevent against lengthy drawn out court hearings over issues such as child maintenance, financial settlements etc. At ark mediation we will work closely with you and the other party to ensure a quick, robust and amicable outcome. 1. MIAM - Initial Meeting At ark mediation, your mediation journey follow four key stages: 1. The Initial meeting , and a requirement by the courts, also know as a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) 2. Mediation Sessions , offered in various formats to suit your needs e.g. shuttle mediation in high-conflict situations, child inclusive mediation where kids are involved, and other formats 3. Outcome , resulting in documents drafted by your mediator to confirm what you agree upon. These can be made legally binding 4. Post-mediation six month check in with your mediator to see how things are going 2. Mediation Sessions The mediator brings all parties together in joint sessions where open and respectful communication is encouraged. During these sessions, participants have the opportunity to express their perspectives, interests and needs. The mediator facilitates the conversation, promotes understanding and helps identify areas of agreement and disagreement. We recognise sometimes it is too difficult for individuals seeking mediation to participate in a joint session. Ark mediation can provide shuttle mediation to overcome this. In cases involving children, and where a child needs to be included as part of the mediation process, our team are trained in Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) and qualified to speak with children aged 10 years and above. Younger children maybe considered on a case-by-case basis. Read more here . Our team are also trained to deal with cases that are circumstances involving 3. Outcome - Agreement & Documentation The mediator assists the parties in generating and evaluating possible solutions. They help participants explore different options, consider the consequences of their decisions and find creative ways to meet their interests and needs. When the parties reach a mutually satisfactory agreement, the mediator assists in documenting the agreement in writing. The agreement may cover various aspects such as parenting plans, division of assets, financial arrangements and any other relevant matters. The agreement can be made legally binding by a qualified solicitor. With a fixed legal package from ark mediation, we can take care of this for you, or you can secure the services of a solicitor of your choosing. 4. Implementation and Six-Month Follow Up After the agreement is reached the parties may need to take steps to implement the agreed-upon terms. The mediator can provide guidance on the necessary actions and support the parties to address any challenges that may arise during the implementation process. It is important to note that Family Mediation is a voluntary process and the mediator remains neutral throughout. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties but instead facilitates their communication and helps them find their own solutions. The goal is to promote understanding, improve communication and foster cooperative relationships within the family. Ark mediation offer all clients a free six-month follow up session. This is an opportunity to make further enhancements to your agreement based on how things are going. Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? Mediation Process FAQs How long does the mediation process take? The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issues. A straightforward case may be resolved in one or two sessions, while financial disputes or more complex cases might require three to five sessions. Each session typically lasts 60-90 minutes Is family mediation confidential? Yes, mediation is entirely confidential. Discussions cannot be used as evidence in court, except in cases involving safeguarding concerns, criminal activity, or financial fraud What are the benefits of family mediation over court? 1. Quicker: Mediation takes weeks, while court cases can take months or years 2. Cheaper: Mediation is significantly less expensive than legal proceedings 3. Less stressful: A cooperative process rather than an adversarial legal battle 4. Confidential: Unlike court cases, mediation remains private 5. Better for children: Focuses on reducing conflict and prioritising their well-being

Ark Mediation has been featured in the Spring edition of Juno - a natural parenting publication Ark Mediation have been featured in the Spring edition of Juno Magazine. About Juno JUNO is a natural parenting magazine that inspires and supports families through its range of features, columns and artwork. Established in 2003, it is published six times a year, in February, April, June, August, October and December. The editorial is broad, covering all aspects of family life for all ages. JUNO is loved by many readers for its articles that share personal experiences and reflections, and for the beautiful and striking images and illustrations from a range of artists. JUNO offers fresh perspectives in this fast-paced technological world, creating a non-judgemental community for those who are keen to follow “a natural approach to family life”. There are columns on home-education, empowered birth, teens and nutrition; interviews, craft and recipe ideas and a mix of features that can help readers make informed choices as they journey through the joys and challenges of parenting. Where to buy your Copy of Juno JUNO is available through WH Smiths, independent retailers, online at www.junomagazine.com and as a digital edition from the following links: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/juno-magazine/id694718174?mt=8 http://www.exacteditions.com/read/juno Through the Exactly App for Android devices: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.exacteditions.android.androidpaper&hl=en Three reasons to read Juno INFORMATION – supportive features from families sharing experiences INSPIRATION – reviews to help you make sustainable choices INCLUSION – making everyone feel welcome in the community

Discover how mediation can help you avoid court, reduce stress, and reach fairer agreements on family, relationship, and financial issues Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting What is family mediation 43% of marriages in the UK end in divorce so it’s important to recognise the changing landscape of divorce. One such change is the trend around Mediation, also known as ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution). The primary goal of mediation is to make divorce proceedings more efficient, reduce conflict, and to support couples in finding long term solutions. Family mediators are trained to work with people in situations where the relationship or marriage has broken down. Our team come from professional backgrounds including law, psychology and various therapy-related professions, and are highly skilled at navigating these types of high-conflict situations. Unlike the court system, you stay in control at every step of the journey. How does family mediation work At ark mediation, your mediation journey follows four key stages: 1. The Initial meeting , and a requirement by the courts, is known as a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) 2. Mediation Sessions , offered in various formats to suit your needs e.g. shuttle mediation in high-conflict situations, child inclusive mediation where kids are involved, and other formats 3. Outcome , resulting in documents drafted by your mediator to confirm what you agree upon. These can be made legally binding 4. Post-mediation six month check in with your mediator to see how things are going What are the benefits of family mediation Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit Take control and have more say on the outcome you desire. Unlike the legal route, where a court judge will enforce decisions upon you, mediation can help empower you to take the right decisions Mediators can often eliminate the conflict between you and your partner by providing pragmatic and impartial guidance . This is especially important where children are concerned and can help both sets of parents keep a level head Unlike the legal court system where decisions can be binding, mediation offers flexibility where agreements can be adapted based on your changing circumstances, for example as your children get older and have different needs Mediation can be quicker, significantly more cost effective and offers a better route to resolving disagreements compared to long drawn-out court battles Read our blog article here for more helpful information and advice, or contact us now for a free consultation. How long does family mediation take The length of family mediation depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement. On average, most cases are resolved within 2 to 4 sessions, with each session lasting around 60 to 90 minutes. Simpler cases, such as basic child arrangements, may be settled in just one or two sessions, while more complex financial disputes can take several sessions. Compared to court proceedings, mediation is significantly faster, often concluding within a few weeks to a couple of months, rather than months or years in court. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you are going through a divorce, separation, family asset dispute or need support on aspects of child arrangements, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? Learn more about a MIAM The first step in your mediation journey is a MIAM, otherwise known as the initial meeting. Read More What is the £500 Family Voucher Scheme? A government initiative that provides a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of family mediation. Read More Learn more about Neurodiverse Family Dynamics For families with specific needs including neurodiverse dynamics. Read More Learn about our fixed Legal Packages A comprehensive end-to-end package including mediation and post-mediation legal sufeguarding. Read More Family Mediation FAQs How does family mediation work? Family mediation has three main stages. 1. Initial Meeting, also known as a MIAM where each party meets the mediator separately to assess suitability; 2. Joint Mediation Sessions, when both parties discuss their issues with the mediator's guidance; 3. Agreement Drafting, takes place when agreements are reach. This summary document outlines the agreed terms and can be made into a legally binding document through a solicitor Do I have to attend family mediation? Mediation is voluntary, but in most cases, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for child or financial disputes, unless an exemption applies (e.g., domestic abuse) Is mediation legally binding? No, mediation agreements are not legally binding. However, once both parties agree, a solicitor can draft a Consent Order, which the court can approve to make it legally binding. Ark Mediation offer a full service package solution where we can facilitate drafting of legal documents What issues can be discussed in family mediation? Mediation covers various family issues, including: 1. Child arrangements (custody, visitation, schooling, holidays) 2. Financial settlements (division of property, assets, pensions) 3. Spousal or child maintenance 4. Communication strategies for co-parenting 5. Any other family disputes related to separation or divorce How long does mediation take? It depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases may take 1-2 sessions, while more complex disputes (e.g., financial settlements) can require 3-5 sessions or more What happens if we can’t reach an agreement? If mediation fails, the mediator will issue a ‘mediator’s certificate’ (FM1 form), allowing either party to apply to court. However, courts often prefer parties to have attempted mediation before legal proceedings Can I bring my solicitor to mediation? Typically, mediation is conducted without solicitors present, however Ark Mediation offer an advanced model called Hybrid Mediation where clients can attend with their legal representative. This allows for real time legal advice and faster decision making How much does family mediation cost? Costs vary based on your particularcircumstances but typically, your initial meeting (MIAM) and any subsequent joint mediation sessions start from £130 per person. Our end-to-end packages including mediation and formalising your agreement through a solicitor start at £799 What if my ex-partner refuses mediation? Mediation is voluntary, and if your ex refuses to attend, you can still proceed with a court application. The mediator will issue a form confirming the attempt to mediate Can mediation help with high-conflict situations? Yes, mediators are trained to manage conflict and ensure a safe discussion environment. In shuttle mediation, parties are in separate rooms, and the mediator moves between them to facilitate negotiation What are the benefits of mediation over court? 1. Faster & cheaper than court 2. Less adversarial – encourages cooperation 3. More control – parties make decisions, not a judge 4. Confidential – discussions remain private 5. Better for children – encourages positive co-parenting

Get essential mediation documens and forms with Ark Mediation. From MIAM forms, C100 and Form A to mediation agreements, we provide all documents you require What are mediation forms and documents The table below provides an overview of typical forms you can expect to encounter on your mediation journey. MIAM Forms FM1 Form (Mediation Certificate) issued when mediation is deemed unsuitable C100 Form issued when applying to court for child arrangements Mediation Outcome Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) issued as a non-legally binding document summarising your agreement. This can be converted into a Consent Order Open Financial Statement (OFS) issued as a factual summary of both parties' financial disclosure Form A issued when applying to court for a financial remedy order e.g. division of assets etc. Other Mediation Documents Parenting Plan - a structured agreement outlining how parents share responsibilities and make decisions about their children Shuttle Mediation Agreement - issued if parties choose shuttle mediation Key Takeaways Mediation outcome documents (MoU, OFS) are not legally binding unless converted into a Consent Order Financial cases require an Open Financial Statement (OFS) to disclose assets transparently Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit MEDIATION FORM FAQs Do I need a mediation certificate to apply to court? Yes, for most child arrangement and financial cases, you must attend a MIAM first. If mediation is not suitable or the other party refuses to engage, the mediator will issue an FM1 certificate allowing you to proceed to court Can mediation forms be used in court? Yes, documents like the FM1 form (for court applications) and the Open Financial Statement (OFS) (for financial disclosures) can be used in court if required. However, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) itself is not a legal document unless turned into a Consent Order

Unhappy with our service? Follow our complaints process here Complaints Process Ark Mediation Ltd Complaints Policy 1. Introduction Ark Mediation Ltd is committed to providing high-quality mediation services. We welcome feedback from our clients to help us improve our services. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of our service, we encourage you to raise your concerns so we can address them appropriately and maintain our standards. 2. Purpose of This Policy This policy outlines how Ark Mediation Ltd will handle complaints, ensuring that they are dealt with in a fair, prompt, and respectful manner. Our goal is to resolve complaints effectively and learn from them to prevent similar issues in the future. 3. Scope This complaints policy applies to all clients, potential clients, and any other individual or organisation interacting with Ark Mediation. It covers complaints related to the services provided by Ark Mediation Ltd, the conduct of our staff, and any issues that may arise during the course of mediation. 4. Making a Complaint If you wish to make a complaint, you may do so in writing, by email, or by phone. Complaints should be directed to our Complaints Officer as follows: Complaints Officer Ark Mediation Ltd Email: contact@arkmediation.co.uk Phone: 0330 043 6360 To help us handle your complaint effectively, please include the following information: • Your name and contact details • A clear description of your complaint, including relevant dates and the names of any staff involved • Any documents or other information you feel are relevant to your complaint 5. Complaints Handling Procedure 1. Acknowledgement We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within 10 working days. Our Complaints Officer will review your complaint and may contact you for further information if necessary. 2. Investigation We will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of your complaint. This may involve speaking to relevant staff, reviewing records, and gathering any additional information needed to understand the issue. 3. Response Within 20 working days of acknowledging your complaint, we will provide you with a formal response outlining the outcome of our investigation. If further time is required, we will keep you informed of the reasons for the delay and provide a new timeframe. 4. Resolution and Actions If your complaint is upheld, we will take appropriate action to address the issue and prevent it from reoccurring. This may include issuing an apology, providing additional support, or implementing procedural changes. 6. Appeals Process If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint, you may request a review of the decision by contacting us within 10 working days of receiving our response. A senior member of the Ark Mediation Ltd team will re-evaluate your complaint and provide a final response within 15 working days. 7. Confidentiality We treat all complaints with strict confidentiality and handle them in accordance with our data protection policy. Information related to complaints is shared only with those directly involved in addressing the issue. 8. Continuous Improvement Ark Mediation Ltd views complaints as an opportunity to improve our services. We keep records of all complaints and monitor patterns to identify areas for development, ensuring that we consistently provide the best possible service to our clients. 9. Contact Us If you have any questions about this complaints policy or need assistance with making a complaint, please contact us using the details provided above.

Take the MIAM questionnaire to find out if you need to book a Mediation meeting. Take the first step today Do I need a MIAM? Use our free short questionnaire to help you quickly understand whether Mediation is the right next step. Whether your dispute relates to child arrangements or financial settlements, the MIAM is a first step in understanding what the mediation journey involves and how it compares to a court process. Note: we do not offer Legal Aid. Start Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting MIAM SURVEY FAQs Is my information kept confidential? Yes. Information you share with us and any personal data is kept in secure storage. We delete questionnaire submissions after 30 days What happens after I complete the form? One of our business team will receive your questionnaire results and we will assess if mediation is suitable for you. If this is the case, we will contact you for a free consultation

Choose mediation over court. Save time, reduce costs and maintain better relationships. 87% success rate. Free consultation available In 2024, the average cost of divorce in the UK stood at £17,561, and with inflation it’s only getting more expensive. Why choose mediation over court? Mediation is a structured, voluntary process where an independent and impartial mediator helps individuals or groups in conflict to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike court proceedings, which can be costly, time-consuming, and adversarial, mediation focuses on collaboration, confidentiality, and fairness. It allows parties to have control over the outcome, rather than having a decision imposed by a judge. Mediation is widely used in family disputes, workplace conflicts, commercial disagreements, and community issues, offering a practical alternative to litigation. Our Mediation Focus 1. Family Mediation Family mediation is commonly used in cases of separation, divorce, child arrangements, and financial settlements. It helps parents and couples resolve disputes about co-parenting, division of assets, child maintenance, and property matters in a structured and supportive environment. Mediators facilitate open discussions, ensuring that both parties’ views are heard while focusing on solutions that work for everyone involved, especially children. 2. Workplace Mediation Workplace mediation helps resolve conflicts between employees, teams, or management, addressing issues like harassment, discrimination, communication breakdowns, or contractual disputes. It is a confidential and voluntary process that encourages open dialogue, restoring professional relationships while preventing costly and disruptive tribunal claims. The Principles of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mediation is a key form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), which promotes out-of-court settlements in a fair and efficient manner. The key principles of ADR and mediation include: Voluntary Participation – Parties engage in mediation by choice, fostering a more cooperative approach to conflict resolution. Neutrality & Impartiality – Mediators remain unbiased, guiding discussions to ensure balanced decision-making. Confidentiality – Discussions in mediation remain private, unlike court proceedings, which are public. Control Over Outcomes – Unlike litigation, where a judge makes the final ruling, mediation empowers parties to reach their own agreement. Cost-Effective & Time-Saving – Mediation is significantly cheaper and faster than going to court, reducing financial and emotional stress. Future-Focused Solutions – Mediation is about finding practical, forward-thinking solutions, rather than dwelling on past grievances. Why Choose Mediation Over Court? Mediation offers a less confrontational, more cost-effective, and time-efficient alternative to resolving disputes compared to court proceedings. It preserves relationships, minimizes stress, and allows parties to craft their own solutions instead of having a legally binding decision imposed on them. Courts increasingly encourage mediation before litigation, recognizing its effectiveness in reducing conflict and promoting long-term resolution. If you are facing a dispute—whether family-related, workplace-based, or commercial—consider mediation as a faster, fairer, and more constructive way to reach a resolution. Contact us today to find out how mediation can help you move forward. Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit Mediation and ADR FAQs What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and how does it differ from going to court? ADR refers to methods of resolving disputes without going to court, including mediation, arbitration, and conciliation. It is typically faster, more cost-effective, and less adversarial than litigation, allowing parties to retain control over the outcome rather than having a decision imposed by a judge Is mediation legally required before taking a dispute to court in the UK? In many cases, particularly in family disputes, attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is a legal requirement before applying to court, unless an exemption applies. For civil and commercial disputes, courts strongly encourage mediation and may penalise parties for refusing to mediate without good reason How long does mediation take compared to a court case? Mediation is significantly quicker than court proceedings. A mediation session can take place within weeks, and many disputes are resolved in one or two sessions. In contrast, court cases can take months or even years, especially if they go to trial What happens if mediation does not result in an agreement? If mediation is unsuccessful, parties retain the right to proceed to court or arbitration. The mediation process remains confidential, so discussions cannot be used as evidence in court. Mediators can issue an FM1 form (for family cases) or a certificate stating that mediation was attempted but did not result in an agreement Is mediation legally binding in the UK? No, mediation agreements are not automatically legally binding. However, parties can formalize their agreement through a solicitor, who can draft a Consent Order (for family cases) or a Settlement Agreement (for commercial disputes), making the terms enforceable by a court

£500 Mediation Voucher Scheme available through Ark Mediation when you appoint us to handle family mediation matters Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting What is the family mediation voucher scheme The family mediation voucher scheme was launched during the pandemic to help ease demand on the family courts. The aim is to incentivise families to resolve child arrangement disputes outside of court through mediation, where safe to do so. The intention is to support families in reaching faster agreements in a less adversarial form of dispute resolution than through in court. It also helps to reduce demand on the family courts, ensuring more of the courts time can be spent on cases that need to be there, such as those where there are safeguarding concerns. The scheme is currently only available for families with child arrangement disputes. You can read more about it on the UK gov.uk site, here . How does the family mediation voucher scheme work Only mediators authorised by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) are taking part in the voucher scheme. If your case is eligible, your mediator will apply for the voucher on your behalf. Once this is approved, it will contribute towards the cost of mediation sessions. How do I know am eligible for a mediation voucher On attendance of a MIAM, one of our mediators will assess the issues you seek to resolve to see if they are suitable for mediation and meet the eligibility requirements for the voucher scheme. The scheme is currently administered by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). It offers families a one-off contribution of up to £500 (per family) towards their mediation costs with FMC accredited mediators. A dispute/application regarding a child A dispute/application regarding family financial matters where you are also involved in a dispute/application relating to a child Note: Access to the voucher scheme is not based on a family’s income or finances and those who are eligible for Legal Aid are not excluded from the scheme. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you are going through a divorce, separation, family asset dispute or need support on aspects of child arrangements, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit VOUCHER SCHEME FAQs Does the voucher cover all mediation costs? The voucher provides up to £500 per case, but this may not cover all sessions. If the total cost of mediation exceeds £500, the parties will need to cover the remaining balance Can both parties receive a separate voucher? No, the £500 voucher is issued per case, not per person. It contributes to the total cost of mediation sessions for both parties Can I use the voucher for a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)? No, the voucher does not cover the MIAM (initial mediation assessment meeting). It is only applicable to joint mediation sessions What if my mediation costs less than £500? The voucher will only cover the actual cost incurred. If your mediation sessions cost less than £500, you will not receive the remaining balance as cash or credit Is the voucher available for financial disputes? The scheme only covers cases related to child arrangements. If financial matters are involved, they must be part of a broader dispute that also concerns children to qualify

Attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) to explore an effective, court-approved alternative for resolving disputes. Book your MIAM today Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Need an Urgent MIAM? >> What is a MIAM A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is the initial meeting you and your partner must take to start your mediation journey. These sessions are a mandatory requirement by Law (except in exceptional circumstances) before any court application can be made through the UK courts. The session must be facilitated by an accredited mediator who can (where required) sign-off a court certificate. Together with your mediator you will explore the issues, discuss the mediation process and assess whether mediation is suitable. When should I attend a MIAM Mediation is often most effective when it takes place at an early stage, before issues have snowballed. It's best to go to mediation when both you and your partner have come to terms with the separation and need help sorting out arrangements. Even if you've been separated for a while and are midway through the court process you can still opt to go down the mediation route. Before issuing a court application, you must attend a MIAM. Certain exemptions apply in extreme situations including domestic violence and child safeguarding concerns. What happens during the MIAM Your mediator will prepare and host the MIAM. In this session (which can be held in-person or over a video call) you will be provided with key information about the process and it is an opportunity for the mediator to evaluate whether your case is suitable for mediation. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions relating to the mediation pathway. In cases where there is evidence of domestic violence of safeguarding concerns relating to children, the mediator will clarify that mediation is not suitable and the case should be referred to court. Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit What happens after a MIAM After each party has had their MIAM, and if they are both in agreement, the mediator will schedule a future appointment for the first mediation session. This is known as the Joint Mediation. In cases where there is a high conflict situation, clients can opt for shuttle mediation where the mediator will go between both clients during the session to avoid clients being in the same room/video call at the same time. If neither party can agree to proceed with mediation after the MIAM, or if the other party does not wish to engage in the MIAM process, or if the mediator deems mediation not to be suitable in your case, the mediator will provide you with the appropriate signed court form. This will provide evidence to the court you have attempted mediation and will allow you to proceed with a court application Read our blog on essential information about a MIAM, click here . Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you have been instructed by the court to seek mediation, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? MIAM FAQs Who can conduct a MIAM? A trained and qualified mediator that is accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) Where does the MIAM take place? Ark Mediation operate face-to-face and virtual MIAM's. Once you have made initial contact with our team and agreed to proceed, an initial meeting will be setup. Please see our Contact Us page for a list of locations we operate face-to-face sessions Do both parties have to attend the same MIAM session? No, MIAMs are usually conducted individually. Each party attends separately so the mediator can assess whether mediation is appropriate and ensure both individuals feel comfortable How long does a MIAM take? A MIAM typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. It is a one-off session where the mediator explains the process, answers your questions, and assesses whether mediation could work for your situation What happens if my ex-partner refuses to attend a MIAM? If the other party refuses to attend, the mediator can issue a MIAM exemption certificate, allowing you to proceed with a court application. However, courts often encourage mediation, and refusing to engage without a valid reason could negatively impact a legal case Can I bring a solicitor or a friend to a MIAM? MIAMs are usually one-on-one meetings with the mediator, so bringing a solicitor or friend is not normally allowed. However, if you have concerns, discuss them with the mediator in advance Do I have to pay for a MIAM? Yes, a MIAM usually costs £130 per person