Capitol Family Mediation Southwark

Capitol Family Mediation Southwark - Finding Solutions To Family Disputes

Questions and Answers about Family Mediation in Southwark

For residents of the London Borough of Southwark (SE1, SE15, SE16, SE21, SE22, SE24), Family Mediation offers a path to resolving disputes arising from separation and divorce. Here are some more detailed questions and answers about the process, costs, and choosing a mediator.

Speak to Capitol Family Mediation on 0208 719 0001 or click below to arrange a callback from our mediation experts.

Understanding Family Mediation -FAQ

Can the government help me pay for mediation, even if I don’t qualify for Legal Aid?

A: Yes, potentially through the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme.

The Voucher: The government offers a time-limited scheme that provides a contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of joint mediation sessions. This is a per-case contribution, not per person.

Eligibility: Your case must primarily concern a dispute or application related to a child. It can also cover financial matters, but only if they are part of a broader dispute that also relates to a child.

How to Access: The voucher is not means-tested (unlike Legal Aid). Your mediator, if they are registered with the Family Mediation Council (FMC), will assess eligibility and apply for the voucher on your behalf.

Exclusions: The voucher does not cover the initial Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

If we reach an agreement in mediation, is it legally binding?

A: No, not automatically. Agreements reached in mediation are recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which is not a legally binding court order.

Child Arrangements: Arrangements are more likely to be followed because they were voluntarily agreed upon, but you can apply to the court to have them formalised into a Child Arrangements Order if you wish.

Financial Matters: To make the financial agreement legally binding and dismiss future claims against each other, you must instruct solicitors to turn the MOU into a Consent Order. This order is then submitted to the Family Court for a Judge’s approval.

How long does the mediation process take for a financial settlement?

A: The duration of financial mediation is highly dependent on complexity and co-operation, but it is much faster than court proceedings:

Typical Timeline: After the MIAM, most financial settlements require 2 to 4 joint sessions, lasting 90 minutes each. With time allowed for gathering documents and reflection, the process usually concludes within 1 to 3 months.

Key Factor: The speed depends heavily on both parties providing full financial disclosure promptly (bank statements, pension valuations, etc.). Delays in documentation will extend the process.

Family Court Serving the Southwark Area

The London Borough of Southwark is served by the Central Family Court due to its location in inner London.

Court Name: Central Family Court

Address: First Avenue House, 42–49 High Holborn, London, WC1V 6NP

Family Enquiries: 020 7421 8500

General Queries: 0300 303 0655

Email (Support): londonfamily@supportthroughcourt.org (Support Through Court)

Handles Cases: Divorce, financial remedies, Child Arrangements Orders, and other family law applications for the Southwark area.

Capitol Family Mediation Southwark - How We Support Families in London

Capitol Mediation Southwark supports individuals and families across Southwark, where family law matters are typically handled by the Central Family Court due to its inner London location. The court deals with issues including divorce, child arrangements, and financial remedies.

Mediation offers a structured and impartial process that can help resolve disputes before or alongside court proceedings. It supports constructive communication, reduces conflict, and often provides a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to contested hearings.

Capitol Mediation Southwark guides clients through the mediation process with clarity and professionalism, helping them reach practical outcomes while minimising the need for court intervention. Learn more about disputes around children here.

Call our team on 0208 719 0001 to find out more about mediation support in Southwark.