Mandatory mediation - Family Solutions and Association of Lawyers for Children express concern (LINK)
Further concerns have been expressed about the governments suggestion that mediation should be mandatory in family courts. Many FNF members who have experienced the family court as a LIP are likely to say, “Lawyers would say that, wouldn’t they?”.
We generally advice our members to do the paperwork themselves and employ a barrister to do the hard bits in court should they need it. We give the help and support through our network of branches and online meetings. But surely there is room for mandatory mediation in child arrangements matters. It's not as if it is not become compulsory in other areas of law.
FSG concerns are that the proposals are simply to deter people from court. In our experience family court often results in a long, forced separation from your children.
FNF supports early intervention. We think an early triage, financial assistance, parenting courses and assisted mediation would all help parents put their children ahead of court.
What do you think?
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