Is mediation itself legally binding?

No - mediation itself isn’t legally binding. It’s a voluntary process designed to help you reach agreements together. However, any agreements you make can be turned into a legally binding consent order or separation agreement once you’ve taken independent legal advice.

Do we have to be in the same room ?

Not necessarily. Shuttle mediation — where you remain in separate rooms or online spaces — can be arranged if appropriate. This can help ensure everyone feels comfortable and able to participate fully.

What if the other person refuses to mediate?

Mediation is voluntary. If the other person chooses not to take part, the mediator can discuss alternative options with you. This may include providing the appropriate mediation certificate if you need to make a court application — such as a C100 form for child arrangements or a Form A for financial matters

How long does mediation take ?

This varies depending on the complexity of the issues and how ready both people are to engage in the process. Some matters can be resolved in one or two sessions, while others may take longer to work through fully.

Can mediation help with finances as well as children?

Yes. Mediation can support discussions about both child arrangements and financial matters, including property, pensions, finances, and ongoing communication — helping you reach practical agreements for the future.

Is mediation confidential?

Yes, Mediation is confidential and legally privileged, except in limited circumstances such as safeguarfing concerns.

Family Mediation

At Cheshire Pathway Mediation, we provide expert family mediation services tailored to support individuals and families navigating the complexities of relationship breakdowns. Whether you're separating from a spouse, cohabitee, same-sex partner, or facing disputes involving grandparents, parents, or siblings, we’re here to help you find constructive, lasting solutions. If your case is regarding children, then we can apply for the £500 government voucher scheme, which would cover £500 towards the cost of mediation sessions. We offer an online MIAM appointment within 48 hours of booking, or even sooner. We are fully accredited and registered with the Family Mediation Council and members of the Family Mediation Association.

Book Now

Compassionate, Qualified Family Mediation

Our mediators are highly qualified and experienced, with a strong legal and human rights background. Qualifications include:

Civil, Commercial and International Mediation Training
Specialist Family Mediation Training
Master’s Degree in International Human Rights Law
Specialist training in domestic abuse safeguarding and screening
Work with CARA – an award-winning early intervention initiative for domestic abuse offenders issued with Conditional Cautions

We are experienced in dealing with sensitive family dynamics, including situations involving domestic abuse, and can ensure mediation is conducted in a safe, structured and supportive environment.

What is a MIAM?

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is a confidential one-to-one meeting with a qualified
mediator.
It is a legal requirement in most family cases before applying to court, unless an exemption applies.
During a MIAM, we will:
Explain what mediation is and how it works
Discuss your situation and concerns
Assess whether mediation is suitable and safe
Explore alternative options if mediation is not appropriate
Answer any questions you may have
MIAMs are held individually, not jointly, and usually last around 45 minutes to an hour.
If mediation is suitable and both parties wish to proceed, joint mediation sessions can be arranged. If mediation is not appropriate, the mediator can explain the next steps and, where relevant, sign the court form confirming MIAM attendance.

MIAMs can be held online or in person.

How Mediation Works

Mediation is a confidential, voluntary process that helps people resolve disputes with the support of an independent, neutral mediator.
Rather than having decisions imposed by a court, mediation allows you to explore options, understand each other's concerns, and work towards agreements that meet your individual needs and circumstances — particularly where children are involved.

1. Initial contact
You can contact us directly to discuss whether mediation may be suitable for your situation.

2. MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting)
Each person attends a separate MIAM. This meeting explains mediation, explores your situation, and assesses whether mediation is appropriate and safe.

3. Joint mediation sessions
If both parties agree to proceed, joint sessions are arranged. These sessions focus on:
Identifying the issues
Exploring concerns and priorities
Developing and testing options
Working towards practical agreements
Sessions can be held face-to-face, online, and using shuttle mediation if appropriate.

4. Reaching an agreement
If agreement is reached, this can be recorded in:
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
An Open Financial Statement (OFS) (where finances are discussed)
These documents are not legally binding, but can be taken to solicitors to convert into a consent order or separation agreement if required.
Mediation is flexible, confidential, and focused on constructive outcomes — particularly where ongoing relationships, such as co-parenting, matter.

What We Specialise In

We specialise in family disputes arising from relationship breakdowns, including:

Arrangements for children – where they live, who they have contact with, how parenting responsibilities are shared
Financial settlements – property, savings, pensions, debts, household contents, spousal maintenance
Inheritance and probate disputes
TOLATA cases (Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996) – resolving disputes about ownership of property between unmarried couples or family members

Our goal is to help you move forward with clarity and confidence, minimising conflict and promoting mutual understanding.

Inclusive and Tailored Mediation Approaches

We are proud to offer inclusive mediation services that reflect the diverse needs of our clients, including:

Culturally sensitive mediation
Hybrid mediation – enabling clients to have their legal representatives present during sessions
Neurodiverse-friendly mediation
Shuttle mediation – where parties are kept in separate rooms and the mediator moves between them to support safe communication

We recognise the importance of tailoring our approach to suit your unique situation and needs.

What Happens in a Joint Meeting?

If both parties agree to proceed, mediation typically moves to a joint session. During this meeting:

Both parties will have a chance to express their concerns in a structured and respectful environment
The mediator will guide discussions and help you explore options
You will work towards mutually agreeable solutions, particularly around children, finances, or property
If needed, agreements can be recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding

Joint meetings can be held face-to-face, online, or in a shuttle format if preferred

Affiliated Member

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Why Choose Us?

Legally informed, specialist mediator
Accredited training in family and domestic abuse mediation
Expertise in complex cases including TOLATA and inheritance disputes
Inclusive, non-judgemental approach
Safe, supportive environment
Flexible online and in-person sessions available

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

01
02
03
04
05
06

Ready to Talk?

If you’re experiencing a family breakdown or dispute, family mediation can help you avoid court, reduce stress, and create practical solutions that work for everyone involved.

Book a Free Initial Consultation