Can someone please explain how the mediation process works

[Sophie282891]

Hello

My ex partners income exceeds £200,000 per year and he also owns a collection of properties, we have a 2 year old together and separated before she was born. He sees her every two weeks for a weekend as we live 200 miles from each other.

His solicitors have been contacting me regarding agreements to him seeing our daughter and I’ve been compliant in this, we now have a plan in place. I’ve attempted to make agreements with his solicitor regarding finances and advised them I would be applying for a schedule one if they didn’t enter in to these negotiations, They said they’re not willing to discuss financial agreements and that their client (my ex) has agreed to mediation. I haven’t got my own solicitor as I can’t afford one but I’ve taken legal advice about what I may be entitled to but obviously the first step is mediation.

I contacted a mediator whom I am meeting Friday where she says she will explain the process further, I just have some questions if anyone can please help me?

I am requesting a property to be settled in my daughters name until she turns 18, as well as a lump sum to account for backdated maintence and removal costs as well as monthly payments.

Can a mediator deal with these requests?
Is he required to provide income and asset proof? (I’m worried he will lie)
Is he required to pay half of the session fee?

[SandraF]

Hi Sophie, I have answered your questions below:

Can a mediator deal with these requests? Mediators are trained to help parties negotiate amicably however they cannot force a party to agree to a settlement if one party does not want to. If this is the position, then mediation will fail and you will have to issue court proceedings to deal with the matter

Is he required to provide income and asset proof? (I’m worried he will lie): If both parties agree to attend the mediation session, then this will form part of the mediation process.

Is he required to pay half of the session fee? Not compulsory but ask him to help fund half of your cost.

Hope the above helps, good luck

[SandraF]

No problem. You can private message me if you want.

[Amethyst]

Sorry Sandra, site policy is to keep all discussions on the forum please, just for transparancy and everyones security Thank you xx

[SandraF]

Oh ok no worries, thanks Amethyst

[Amethyst]

That's okay Your help on here is appreciated btw xx