Understanding the separation and divorce process

Are you going through or considering a divorce or separation?

Do you have questions over the process and how best to resolve any conflict?

Here at Godalming Family Mediation, we realise that going through a divorce or separation can be a stressful and emotional time and understanding how best to address issues may be difficult. This is why we have produced a FREE helpful divorce and separation guide, which has been updated to include recent changes to the law incluidng the introdcution of the new “no fault divorce” on 6th April 2022, to help and support you.

Download FREE Divorce Guide

Mediation in Divorce

We also offer family mediation services in Surrey and London. Find out more about how we can help you approach your divorce and separation with our approachable, experienced mediation designed to address a range of issues that include dealing with financial agreements and children.

Discover whether mediation is right for you by exploring what is involved in the mediation process.

The guide contains the following sections:

Part 1: Introduction

1.            Is my relationship over?

2.            “Why mediate” or “why not mediate”?

3.            Should I instruct a solicitor either in parallel with mediation or instead of mediation?

4.            I would rather have my day in court

Part 2: The Mediation Process

1.            What is a “MIAM” and do I need one?

2.            What do I do if my ex-partner has already contacted the mediator?

3.            Should I start the full mediation process?

4.            Should I consider co-mediation?

5.            What are the costs involved?

6.            What can I expect during the mediation meetings?

7.            How do I choose a mediator?

Part 3: The Main Issues for Discussion

1.            The future of the relationship

i.              Discussing Separation

ii.             The “D” word – Divorce!

2.            The finances

i.              Child maintenance

ii.             Spousal maintenance

iii.            The house, pensions and other assets

iv.           Ensuring that you are able to make informed decisions

3.            The Children

i.              Working out the children’s arrangements

ii.             Do the children take part in the mediation process?

4.            The Importance of Communication

Part 4: Conclusion – Mediate first not last!

Flowchart for the options when considering a separation or divorce

I hope that you find this self-help guide useful and please let me know if you have any comments or questions.

Euan Davidson

Godalming Family Mediation