Family Mediation Guides

NATIONWIDE ONLINE FAMILY MEDIATION SERVICES

Practical guidance to help you understand family mediation, parenting arrangements, and the options available when families are navigating change.

How to Create a Child-Focused Parenting Plan That Actually Works (2026)

When parents separate, one of the most important - and often most challenging - tasks is creating a parenting planthat truly supports children....

The Complete Guide to Family Mediation (2026 Edition)

Feb 26, 2026 | Mediation

Family mediation is often described as a calmer, more constructive alternative to court...

How to Create a Child-Focused Parenting Plan That Actually Works (2026)

Feb 26, 2026 | Mediation

When parents separate, one of the most important - and often most challenging - tasks is creating a parenting planthat truly supports children....

Mediation vs Court: What Parents in the UK Need to Know (2026)

Feb 26, 2026 | Mediation

When parents separate, one of the biggest decisions is how to resolve disagreements about children, finances, and future arrangements....

Why Families Choose Us

At Alliance Family Mediation, we believe in empowering family members to take an active role in shaping their own future. Family mediation is a safe, structured, impartial process that helps separating couples resolve important decisions without the stress, cost or conflict of going to court. Instead of handing control to a judge, mediation allows you to make your own decisions with the support of a trained, neutral mediator.

It’s designed to reduce tension, improve communication and give you a practical way forward – at a pace that feels manageable. Unlike court-imposed rulings, mediation allows families to work collaboratively toward tailor-made, flexible solutions that address their specific concerns. The strength of mediation lies in its emphasis on self-determination – you decide the outcome, not the courts.

Is Mediation Right For You?

Mediation works well when:

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You want to avoid court

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You prefer a calmer, more private approach

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You value having control over the outcomes

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You want to protect your children from conflict

How long does it all take?

Mediation is recognised as a quicker, cheaper and less stressful alternative to the court system for separating and divorcing couples.
You both get to decide your outcome, with my support.

What is Mediation – Are the agreements legal?

With my help, agreements can be made in a safe and confidential space to suit both parties. All agreements can then go on to be made into legally binding orders through the courts.

What if I’d rather go to court?

The law says that you must show that you have at least considered mediation before you can take a case to court, unless there are special circumstances involved, like domestic violence.

Can a mediator give me a divorce?

No. You’ll need to legally end your marriage or civil partnership, but you won’t have to physically go to court for this. I can support you with the documents you will need to submit, and when to do that.

Do we have to pay for mediation?

Legal aid is available for mediation. This means that if you’re eligible, it might be free for you. I can show you where to go for eligibility checks.

Is mediation about trying to get us to stay together?

No. Mediators are not counsellors, and will not suggest you stay together.
I help you work out what happens when you split up.

What is Mediation – are you a regulated mediator?

Yes. I am a member of the Family Mediation Council, the Family Mediation Association and the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PA’s. Every mediator also has to have a PPC (Professional Practice Consultant) and I am very fortunate that mine is also a Family Court Judge.

How do I know you’ll understand?

I understand from my own personal experience that family breakdowns and divorce can be extremely upsetting, confusing and emotional for everyone involved. I can help you apply a solution based approach to the issues you are facing with child arrangements, property and finances.

What is mediation? Mediation services - the first steps

£150

MIAM |Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting

Court application sign-off £60
(available once you have attended a MIAM)

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The law states that you should attend a MIAM with a family mediator before you submit an application to the courts (unless you are exempt). A MIAM is an individual, confidential meeting between you and the mediator. The mediator will provide you with information about the mediation principles and procedures. You will also be assessed for your suitability for mediation services.

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Mediators don’t take sides, make judgements or tell you what you ‘should’ do.

Everything is focused on future solutions, not past conflict

Schedule a call to help solve your family issues

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"Julia is kind, understanding and extremely knowledgeable. She put me at ease during a difficult and emotional time. Julia and the team were professional and efficient. Have already recommended to a friend and wouldn't hesitate to do the same again."

Emily T.

Helping families across Kent and nationwide reach calm, amicable agreements through expert family mediation - a more supportive and cost-effective alternative to court. Stay in control of the outcome, with clear guidance and a steady, empathetic approach every step of the way.