Author: Brenda Head

Date: 7 April 2011

A change in the law means that it has become compulsory for anyone considering making an application in family proceedings to attend a mediation information meeting.

The Lord Chancellor’s Office has issued Practice Direction 3A, which came into force on 6 April 2011. This change in the law recognises that there are alternative ways of solving family disputes before they come to court and that early intervention can help.

Previously, only those seeking legal funding would have to go to mediation. Under the new ruling, privately funded clients will also be required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment meeting.

This will enable two parties who are experiencing legal problems following a breakdown in their relationship to use mediation to help resolve their difficulties, whilst still being able to refer to their lawyers for legal advice.

Should you need any advice on this issue or need to refer a client to a trained, impartial family mediator, Ashton Graham can help. Brenda Head is authorised as a Family Mediator to conduct the initial Information and Assessment Meetings and any mediation that is then agreed by the parties. She can also assess for eligibility and undertake publicly funded mediations.

If you would like to make a referral, please contact Brenda Head.