02. What is mediation?

If you get divorced or you separate from your partner, it is usually better if both of you can sort out the arrangements for the future between you. Mediation is a process of negotiation to help you reach decisions about these arrangements together.

Mediation aims to help you to find a solution that meets the needs of you, your partner and any children, and that you all feel is fair. At the end of mediation, you should feel that there has been no 'winner' or 'loser', but that you have come to an arrangement that you can all live with.

Mediation can help to reduce tension, anger and misunderstandings and improve communication between you and your partner. This is especially important if you have children, because you will probably have to co-operate over their care and upbringing.

You may want to read this leaflet alongside one of the Community Legal Service leaflets 'Divorce and Separation' or 'Living Together and your Rights if you Separate'. These have more information about your legal rights if your relationship has broken down.