Mediation & Collaborative

We offer a number of methods for Alternative Dispute Resolution. As to which process is best for the individual and for the couple depends on them, their personalities, circumstances and issues to be resolved. We will therefore be glad to talk through the options with you.

• Family Mediation

Mediation is a way of easing the process of divorce and separation permitting the mediating couple to feel in control of the decisions which may need to be made. The Mediator assists in the identification of areas of dispute, can give information and helps create mutually acceptable solutions to produce a settlement acceptable to both parties. The Mediator has no authority to make any binding decisions but uses various procedures, techniques and skills to help the parties to resolve their disputes by negotiated agreement.

Mediation is offered on an “all issues” basis, concerning both financial arrangements and/or matters associated with children.

We are able to offer Family Mediation either in our Winchester office or in our Bournemouth Mediation Outreach office.

• Collaborative Law

In this process the couple each retain their own lawyer to advise.  However, the lawyers’ approach is different in that whilst they are still there to protect their client’s interest and to advise they also take an overview of the whole situation including that of the children and endeavour to broker a fair settlement taking everything into account.  They will not give examples and markers of the best and worst case scenario thereby avoiding the negotiations becoming a battleground but will approach on the basis of what would be a fair and reasonable settlement.

• Civil and Commercial Mediation

Commercial and civil mediation is a flexible and confidential process. Its use has grown over recent years, to some extent driven by the Courts who now regularly encourage the parties to attempt to resolve their differences through mediation before continuing the litigation through the Courts.  There can be costs penalties for the party who refuses to consider mediation.

Contact our Mediators and Collaborative Lawyers

Nick Bell (Family Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer)
nbell@shentons.co.uk

Jayne Davies (Family Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer)
jdavies@shentons.co.uk

Sukie Lewis (Family Mediator)
slewis@shentons.co.uk

Shaun Underhill (Civil and Commercial Mediator)
sunderhill@shentons.co.uk

Referring Solicitors are invited to complete the following form and submit it by fax to 01962 844501 or by email to main@shentons.co.uk

Mediation referral form SHENTONS MEDIATION REFERRAL FORM