Family

Lyndsey Sambrook-Wright, family mediator at Garden Court Chambers, offers parties an alternative to adversarial, costly and stressful family law court proceedings.  A wide range of topics can be discussed,  including:

  • Living arrangements for children
  • Contact arrangements for children
  • Finances, including moving towards a divorce settlement
  • Vulnerable adults
  • Some medical issues

Mediation can take place whether or not there are already court proceedings or the parties have instructed lawyers, provided the parties agree to mediate.

Family and other personal relationships are at the heart of most people’s lives and when they go wrong, it can lead to extraordinarily difficult and painful situations. It is increasingly recognised that litigating family disputes in court is not the best or most cost-effective way to deal with them. As a result, courts are increasingly referring parties to mediation.

Fees for Family Mediation are quoted as a total, which is usually split between the parties. We charge £350 + VAT for the first hour and £250 + VAT for all subsequent hours, either at the same meeting or at subsequent meetings. Mediation is a flexible process covering a wide range of issues and we are happy to discuss which issues will be included in the mediation. Our mediators generally contact the parties directly to make the necessary arrangements, which can include meetings at short notice and at flexible times.

Most mediation sessions and MIAM sessions now take place remotely, although alternative arrangements can be discussed. MIAMs are charged at £60 + vat per person, payable ahead of the session. Please contact the mediation clerks either directly or through your lawyer.