what happens at the first mediation session?
At the first mediation session you will need to bring your Agreement to Mediate which you should first have read and signed.
You may also need to supply ID if you have not already done so.
The mediation session will start with the reading of the ground rules, which set out the basis for mediation so that you are both clear as to what is expected.
The mediator will use a flip chart to collect information and to record agreements between you. You are free to take whatever notes you wish during the mediation but no voice recording is permitted. No notes are produced for circulation after the meeting, but if you need to get legal advice your mediator will give either a Summary of Options for you to take to your solicitor, or a brief synopsis so that you know what you need to ask. You will usually be sent a ‘to do’ list with your next appointment as with financial mediations particularly there are usually things to find out to make best use of the next session.
Mediation is a very interactive process so please do not hesitate to let your mediator know if you need any extra help is supplying information, if you do not have a solicitor and think you need some advice, or in fact any way in which we can help.
If you are mediating around the table sometimes the mediator may ask to see you each on your own for a few minutes. This can only happen with the agreement of you both, but can sometimes be useful in overcoming an impasse or allowing the mediator to speak more directly to you both than would be appropriate with you together.
We have facilities to speak to children in mediation, and further information regarding this is found on our children in mediation page.
We have links with family therapists locally and are fully supportive of any form of counselling. Your mediator will be happy to discuss this further with you and will suggest this if it appears that this may be helpful in your particular circumstances.
Each mediation is different and we strive to give tailored and individual attention so that you get the best out of our service.