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What is the FM5 Form?
More about what the FM5 form is and how to find the FM5 Form.
The benefits of mediation, court procedure rules and funding for mediation.
The process of mediation provides a structured environment where parties can discuss issues with the help of an impartial mediator, aiming to reach a mutually acceptable agreement and avoid the need for court intervention.
Mediation tends to be quicker, less confrontational, and more cost-effective than going to court.
Mediation allows parties to maintain control over the outcomes and solutions that directly impact their lives, as opposed to having decisions imposed by a judge.
While attendance of joint sessions of family mediation is not mandatory, it remains a strongly recommended and often necessary step in the process of resolving family disputes.
Before applying to the court for a child arrangement order or a financial order, you must attend at least a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), which is a meeting between you and a Mediator.
There are exemptions to attending a MIAM, and you are able to contact the courts to discuss these. Failure to attend a MIAM without a valid exemption may affect how the court views the case and could lead to delays or additional costs.
Attending joint sessions of family mediation is highly encouraged by the family courts and recent changes have seen the following:
Parents or guardians can receive a voucher worth up to £500 towards the cost of joint mediation sessions where children are being discussed, regardless of their income. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage the use of mediation as a less adversarial and more cost-effective means of resolving family disputes.
TLC also has a Legal Aid contract for anyone receiving benefits or a lower income. Please see the document on our website titled ‘Legal Aid Information’.
Contact our Mediation team on 0161 872 1100
More about what the FM5 form is and how to find the FM5 Form.
Already booked in? We have an onboarding pack to guide you through the process.
More about the Family Mediation we offer.