Bath law firm Mogers Drewett has launched a mediation service to help families try and resolve issues arising from divorce or separation.
The service addresses court rules that came into force a year ago which require couples to go to mediation before any application is initiated in relation to finances or children. 
Mediation is often seen as the most cost-effective way that people can resolve issues arising from a relationship breakdown.
The mediator’s role is to be impartial and neutral. As such, the mediator can only provide information but not advice. Individuals can have their own solicitors so they can take advice between mediation sessions about what was discussed.
Mogers Drewett solicitor Victoria Strode, pictured, said: “The breakdown of a relationship is invariably a very difficult time, especially when it comes to the issue of children and finances.
“Since April 2014, both parties now need to meet with a trained mediator to work through any issues they are not able to resolve together.
“Face-to-face meetings between both parties are almost always better as mediation is the process through which both parties make proposals together, and it is also likely to save time. However, if this is difficult there are alternatives, such as meeting with the mediator on separate days, or both meeting at the same time and place, but in two separate rooms.
“Our mediation service adheres to the core principles of impartiality and confidentiality, are without prejudice, and are voluntary, which means if at any stage either or the parties do not feel comfortable continuing with mediation, there is no obligation to do so.”
Mogers Drewett’s mediation service does not cover publicly funded (Legal Aid) mediation.
Mogers Drewett was formed from the merger last May between Bath-based Mogers and Dyne Drewett, which had offices in Dorset and Somerset.
