The biggest shake-up in divorce law for over 50 years has come into force. These groundbreaking reforms introduce the concept of a “no-fault” divorce. The Divorce, Dissolution, and Separation Act (2020) aims to reduce conflict between separating couples. It means that they will no longer have to apportion blame for Read more…
People don’t decide to end a long-term relationship lightly, especially when children are involved. Divorce and separation are two of the most painful life events anyone ever goes through. They can lead people to question everything they thought they knew about themselves and their lives. They are overwhelming. If this Read more…
In the middle of what may be the most difficult time in your life, it can be very difficult to know where to go for help. When you need more support than you have ever needed before, you don’t know who to ask or how you will afford to pay Read more…
The next stage involves exploring the options that are in practice open to you. These will depend very much on your personal circumstances and what is important to your family. You will probably both find it helps if you have a full and honest conversation about each option, including the Read more…
•It really helps to go to your first mediation knowing what is important to you. Try to keep an open mind about what the practical solution might look like but identify the questions that you believe need answering. These will be unique to your family, but might include, for example: Read more…
Mediation is a sort of a structured conversation, in which a professional helps people to discuss difficult things in a safe space. A qualified mediator will keep the discussion focused on the important issues and will encourage you both to think about the future rather than the past. As a Read more…
One of the most difficult things about divorce and separation is the uncertainty and confusion people feel. Mediation can help you work out what your options are. Sometimes none of the options will be especially good ones from your point of view and that can be a difficult and unhappy Read more…
When you are in a broken relationship your ability to be the best parent you can be is hampered – so separation can be a positive opportunity to have a better relationship with your children. Try not to see your child as a commodity to be bargained over – children Read more…
Being a separated parent is a daunting challenge. Here are some issues you may wish to consider in exploring what kind of arrangements would suit your new family best. If you think it would be helpful to have a parenting plan agreed we can work on this in mediation. Who Read more…
During mediation it is really important, though often really hard, to keep communication with your ex civilized. Communication can be hampered when you feel too anxious, angry or upset. Basic exercises may help – take a breath, go for a walk, count to ten. Finding a way to communicate effectively Read more…