Mediation Department

We have a specialist team who are experienced in all matters regarding (also known as Publically Funded of FREE) Family Mediation.

Our team appreciate that the breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and distressing time for all concerned, and because of this, you will receive expert impartial support from our trained Mediators.

When going through divorce or separation, sometimes the hardest parts are finding suitable arrangements for your children, finances and property. When separating couples work together, this can be possible, however the worry of Mediation costs can be an added pressure. If you are eligible, Legal Aid makes it possible for you to access Mediation services if you do not have sufficient financial means.

Free initial information

Our Mediation services are provided through ‘Midlands Dove Mediation’, who are a part of our organisation, offering specialist mediation services. Our specialist, independent and impartial Solicitor Mediators, are here to take the worry off your hands.

Our experienced Mediation team provide free initial information in relation to each type of Mediation process and how this could assist in your current circumstances. Please call our administration hub on 01623706020 or your preferred office below or email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk or visit their specific website www.midlandsdove.co.uk

• Chesterfield: 01246 386322
• Derby: 01332 973800
• Mansfield: 01623 706020
• Nottingham: 0115 8384777

What is Legal Aid or Public Funding?

Legal Aid is where public funds are used in order to pay for legal advice, family mediation and court or tribunal representation. In England and Wales it is the Legal Aid Agency who are responsible for providing legal aid to citizens.

The purpose of Legal Aid is to provide individuals who do not have sufficient financial means, access to various legal services, such as family Mediation.

How can I find out if I am eligible for Legal Aid / Public Funding?

You may be eligible to access Legal Aid Mediation if you are receiving certain benefits (such as Universal Credit, Income based JSA, income based ESA or Income Support), are on a low income, or not working and they do not have savings or other financial assets.

The Legal Aid Agency determine who is entitled to Legal Aid and what evidence a person is required to provide to support their claim for it. They have a calculator on their website to assist people who think they may be entitled to legal Aid http://civil-eligibility-calculator.justice.gov.uk or www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid

Our Mediation team will discuss the requirements for Legal Aid when we speak with you and our trained Mediators will assess whether you qualify for Legal Aid and will discuss the process with you during your Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

If you require Family Mediation services and believe you may be entitled to Legal Aid, it is important to discuss this with a trained Mediator, who will be able to assess your eligibility for this.

What happens if only one party is eligible for Legal Aid Family Mediation?

A person who is eligible for Legally Aided Family Mediation, will not be required to pay for any part of the Mediation process (as long as they remain eligible throughout the process).  In addition, they will be entitled to claim Legal Aid from an independent Family Solicitor, using Help with Mediation.

When working through the process of Family Mediation, if one party is eligible for Legal Aid, the cost of an individual MIAM will be covered for all parties. In addition, all parties will be entitled to one FREE joint Mediation Session, if Mediation is something all parties wish to engage in and the Mediator feels that it is suitable to take place.

Please contact us, in order to find out how Legal Aid can support your mediation process.

How we can help

Our experienced team of Mediators are able to provide impartial support, assistance and information, during what may be a difficult and distressing time.

Our specialist team members all have experience of helping people at difficult times in their lives and we are committed to delivering to you a professional and confidential service.

Location is not an issue

Our Mediators are able to provide expert services across the country. For us, geographical location is not an obstacle, we have a network of offices based in: Chesterfield, Nottingham, Mansfield and Derby.

Our Mediators also provide remote mediation sessions, subject to and in accordance with the requirements of the Family Mediation Council and Legal Aid Agency able to offer their services using remote video appointments, using ZOOM, Facetime or Skype.

How to make contact

Our team are on hand to help you and can assist wherever you are based.

Please call us for a no-obligation, free initial discussion or email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk and we will call or email you back.

• Chesterfield: 01246 386322
• Derby: 01332 973800
• Mansfield: 01623 706020
• Nottingham: 0115 8384777