Is Family Mediation cheaper than going to court?

Is it cheaper to go to court or mediation and why?

Family mediation is generally a more cost effective way to find resolution of fmaily law issues  than court proceedings for several reasons:

  • Lower Legal Fees: Mediation involves fewer legal professionals and a simpler process, reducing overall costs compared to court cases that can require solicitors, barristers, and lengthy preparation.
  • Faster  Resolution: Mediation typically resolves disputes in a matter of weeks/a few months, while court cases can take many months or years, increasing associated costs like legal fees and lost time. Most mediation cases are resolved  within 3-6 sessions, with each session lasting 90 minutes to 2 hours. Legal     proceedings typically take 8-12 months or longer due to court schedules, the disclosure process, and trial preparations. Complex cases can extend over several years.
  • Transparent  Costs: Mediation fees are often predictable, with fixed packages or hourly rates, whereas court proceedings can incur unpredictable expenses.
  • Shared Costs: Mediation fees are usually split between the people attending the mediation, making it  more affordable.
  • The Mediation Voucher Scheme If children arrangements are being discussed in mediation, there is currently a MOJ voucher than can be applied for offering £500 towards the cost of joint mediation meetings (non-means tested).
  • Legal Aid Availability : Legal aid is sometimes available for mediation, covering initial sessions for eligible participants, unlike most court cases.

Overall, mediation minimises financial strain while fostering amicable solutions. The flexibilityand collaborative nature of mediation can aslo make it a quicker option compared to the timelines of the court processes.

Contact us to learn more about how mediation can help hello@familymandm.co.uk

Other Blog Posts

How can I manage my emotions in family mediation sessions?

Managing emotions in family mediation is often a worry. What can be done to help manage these?

By
Claire

What common issues do we come across that can prolong the mediation process?

Several common challenges can prolong the mediation process

By
Rachael

Is Family Mediation Right for You?

Is family mediation right for everyone? What are the benefits?

By
Claire

How can family mediation help in high conflict divorces?

Family mediation can be highly effective in resolving high conflict divorces by fostering communication, reducing hostility, and creating a structured environment for decision-making.

By
Rachael

How can impasse be effectively addressed during mediation?

When there is an impasse what happens?

By
Claire

Why is it better to reach an amicable financial agreement on divorce?

Reaching amicable financial agreements during divorce and avoiding court proceedings offers several advantages

By
Rachael
View all Blogs