Mediation Options
September 2007
Mediation option likely to gain popularity in light of aid change
The introduction on 1st October 2007 of a new method of paying solicitors who undertake legally aided work, has meant that it is now very difficult to find a solicitor to provide publicly funded legal advice and representation.
As a result, mediation may well become an increasingly popular option. Mediators still offer public funding for those who are financially eligible and for those who are not, mediation is still a cost effective and potentially less acrimonious solution. By using a mediator, courts are largely avoided with only an order required at the end of the process if the outcome is a divorce rather than separation. Over the course of a number of meetings, all matters are resolved between the parties with the mediator helping the couple reach the best possible, mutually agreed outcome for them. As a result the costs are kept low and it can be a much more civilised and less antagonistic way to manage the process.
At Brain Chase Coles, solicitors in Basingstoke, Haymarket Family Mediation is expecting to see a much greater uptake in this option for couples who are separating. Sheila Parkes, who heads the department, commented:
“By using a neutral mediator, clients are able to build up the trust between themselves, whilst also achieving an agreement over a relatively short period of time and in a more cost effective manner. While it is unlikely to be the choice in the most acrimonious divorce situation, I am sure that mediation is going to be viewed increasingly positively in light of the changes to legal aid funding.”
For further information, please contact Brain Chase Coles on (01256) 354481.
