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Our team of Accredited Mediators has been helping families and clients reach amicable agreements since 2019.
Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting
24hr MIAM
Child-Inclusive Mediation
Complex Asset Settlement
Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
Why use mediation?
Did you know that mediation in the UK boasts a success rate of approximately 77%, with most cases reaching full or partial agreements.
At ark mediation, we resolve disputes without the stress and expense of court. We support people going through challenges such as divorce, financial settlements, child arrangements, and workplace disputes. Our experienced mediators are fully trained, qualified, and affiliated with organisations such as the Family Mediation Council (FMC), ensuring a professional and compassionate approach to every case.
Our Services
Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that helps separating or divorcing couples resolve disputes without going to court. A trained mediator acts as a neutral third party, guiding discussions to help both parties reach fair agreements on issues such as finances, property, and child arrangements.
Mediation is often quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective than legal proceedings. It also promotes open communication, helping families find practical solutions that work for everyone involved - especially children. In the UK, mediation is encouraged by the courts, and in most cases, attending an initial meeting called the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is required before taking family disputes to court.​
​​If you're struggling to agree financial settlements as part of a separation, child parenting plans, spousal maintenance or even a consent order to finalise your divorce, then family mediation is the pathway for you. Our comprehensive service and specialist team are here to help.
Family Mediation
We recognise each family situation is unique and sometimes you may require specialised support. Our full range of services include the following;
STANDARD SERVICES
Initial Mediation (MIAM)
Child-Inclusive Mediation
Joint and Shuttle Mediation
Mediation Court Forms
Mediation Documents
Post-Mediation Follow-Ups
SPECIALIST SERVICES
Fast Track MIAM (24 hours)
Culturally Diverse Families
Neurodiverse Family Dynamics
Complex Asset Mediation
Cross Border Family Mediation
Post-Mediation Legal Forms
Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting
Other Mediation Services
Workplace Mediation
Restore workplace balance and professional conduct. Avoid disputes and conflict that leads to costly tribunal processes and a negative environment for other employees.
What our clients say about us
Discover how ark mediation has helped families and clients in times of change.
“I didn't know where to start and why I needed to mediate, until I spoke to Romina. She immediately put my mind at ease from the very first call and talked me through all the options I had. I'd definitely say mediation is a better route than solicitors - which is where my ex-wife and I were stuck for some time. Thank you for your help!"
Jamie K, Rugby (UK)
"The team at Ark are amazing mediators. My situation was complex because of my religious background. Most solicitors I spoke to didn't understand this dynamic and I struggled to find the right kind of support. Working with a team like ark was absolutely the right thing for me and my family. They navigated this difference with sensitivity, ultimately getting us to a good place. Thank you, ark!
Najda Kadir, St John's Wood
“We were headed down the court route, which is something I couldn't really afford because I didn't have the same income as my ex. I found Romina's details on the national family mediation website and after speaking to her I realised mediation was the best way to go. She managed to get my ex-husband around the table with me and we worked on our issues like adults. Thank you so much.”
Lily Kirk, Chesham
Family Mediation FAQs
How does family mediation work? Family mediation has three main stages. 1. Initial Meeting, also known as a MIAM where each party meets the mediator separately to assess suitability; 2. Joint Mediation Sessions, when both parties discuss their issues with the mediator's guidance; 3. Agreement Drafting, takes place when agreements are reach. This summary document outlines the agreed terms and can be made into a legally binding document through a solicitor
Do I have to attend family mediation? Mediation is voluntary, but in most cases, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for child or financial disputes, unless an exemption applies (e.g., domestic abuse)
Is mediation legally binding? No, mediation agreements are not legally binding. However, once both parties agree, a solicitor can draft a Consent Order, which the court can approve to make it legally binding. Ark Mediation offer a full service package solution where we can facilitate drafting of legal documents
What issues can be discussed in family mediation? Mediation covers various family issues, including: 1. Child arrangements (custody, visitation, schooling, holidays) 2. Financial settlements (division of property, assets, pensions) 3. Spousal or child maintenance 4. Communication strategies for co-parenting 5. Any other family disputes related to separation or divorce
How long does mediation take? It depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases may take 1-2 sessions, while more complex disputes (e.g., financial settlements) can require 3-5 sessions or more
What happens if we can’t reach an agreement? If mediation fails, the mediator will issue a ‘mediator’s certificate’ (FM1 form), allowing either party to apply to court. However, courts often prefer parties to have attempted mediation before legal proceedings
Can I bring my solicitor to mediation? Typically, mediation is conducted without solicitors present, however Ark Mediation offer an advanced model called Hybrid Mediation where clients can attend with their legal representative. This allows for real time legal advice and faster decision making
How much does family mediation cost? Costs vary based on your particular circumstances but typically, your initial meeting (MIAM) and any subsequent joint mediation sessions start from £130 per person. Our end-to-end packages including mediation and formalising your agreement through a solicitor start at £799
What if my ex-partner refuses mediation? Mediation is voluntary, and if your ex refuses to attend, you can still proceed with a court application. The mediator will issue a form confirming the attempt to mediate
Can mediation help with high-conflict situations? Yes, mediators are trained to manage conflict and ensure a safe discussion environment. In shuttle mediation, parties are in separate rooms, and the mediator moves between them to facilitate negotiation
What are the benefits of mediation over court? 1. Faster & cheaper than court 2. Less adversarial – encourages cooperation 3. More control – parties make decisions, not a judge 4. Confidential – discussions remain private 5. Better for children – encourages positive co-parenting