We are mediators and non-practising solicitors.
Solicitors tend to specialise in particular areas of law. As non-practising solicitors who retrained, we now specialise in helping people solve their problems and disputes. Mediation works for individuals, groups and organisations across a wide range of matters.
- Getting things started
- Engaging the other person
- Law and procedure
- Forms and Paperwork
- Finances and Property
- How to tell the children
- Cohabitee rights
- Living Arrangements
- Child Support
- The Child’s Voice
- Parenting Plans
- Parental responsibility
- Visitation
- Reducing the effect of parental separation
- Care arrangements
- Later life decisions
- Inheritance, will and trust matters
- Probate disputes
- Living arrangements
- Family communication
- Choosing an attorney
Civil & Community
- Contract and Small Claims
- Neighbour and Boundary
- Planning and Development
- Partnership and Workplace
Our Focus
We practise only as mediators. We used to work as solicitors but found the legal system worked better for the lawyers than for their clients.
Mediation tends to lead to better outcomes, is less expensive and is quicker than the alternatives.
Contrary to popular belief, most problems or disputes do not have answers which can be found in the law. Most problems are typically brought about by a breakdown in communication. This fuels emotional and polarised opinions, which in turn typically leads to spiralling conflict.
Mediation creates an environment where clear communication – not letter writing – is a priority. Mediators help the conversations along, ensuring differing points of view can be safely aired. We ensure that the discussions are respectful. This creates better understanding and greater opportunities for mutually acceptable agreements.
Don’t just take our word for it
Typical Cost Per Person of Divorce & Financial Settlement in UK Using Start Mediation
Average Cost Per Person of Divorce & Financial Settlement in UK Using Lawyers (Aviva plc 2014)
- Average duration of a non-mediated case is 435 days (Ministry of Justice, 21 May 2014). 100%
- Average duration of a mediated case is 110 days (Ministry of Justice, 21 May 2014). 23%
- Average cost of mediated outcomes compared to those using other methods (Ministry of Justice, 21 May 2014). 6%
“It’s doubtful that anyone asked to design a justice system would choose to copy the English and Welsh model. It’s contradictory in places, and rather confusing.”
So we say
“If court outcomes are unpredictable, why would you go there?
If court outcomes are predictable, why would you need them?”
Our Credentials
Abraham Lincoln
“Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser… in fees, expenses and waste of time. As a peacemaker the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough.“Abraham Lincoln
