• Lack of Preparation: Insufficient preparation by either party can lead to delays as mediators may need to fill knowledge gaps or clarify positions.
• Incomplete financial disclosure: Not providing the right information can delay a timetable whilst it is obtained.
• Communication Barriers: Misunderstandings, poor communication, or adversarial attitudes can create frustration and slow progress.
• Unrealistic Expectations: If parties hold rigid or unrealistic demands, reaching a compromise becomes more difficult and time-consuming.
• Timing Issues: Scheduling conflicts, premature mediation (before key information is available), delaying tactics, can stall the process.
• Distrust or Resistance: A lack of trust in the process or resistance to joint meetings can hinder cooperation and resolution.

Addressing these challenges proactively can help to streamline the mediation process.

Many of these issues can be well managed by advance planning and being clear about what is expected as part of the mediation process. We discuss these points with couples when they have their individual, private pre-mediation meetings called MIAM’s (Mediation Information and Assessment meetings), these are always done before joint mediation starts.

If you have any questions about the mediation process and how it may be able to help you, call us on 0800 206 2258 or email us at hello@familymandm.co.uk

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