Family mediation website goes live
26 August 2009
Justice Minister Bridget Prentice launches an updated advice website for families involved in disputes.
The family mediation page on the Directgov website gives advice on how to avoid damaging and expensive court battles by using mediation.
Courts should be the last resort for people involved in family disputes. Mediation is an alternative to litigation and can be cheaper, quicker and less stressful. It is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps both sides to agree on the outcome.
Bridget Prentice said:
'The government is committed to the promotion of family mediation as in many cases mediation can offer considerable advantages over going to court.
'Mediation is particularly helpful in cases involving children where ongoing conflict between the parents is more likely than not to impact negatively on their development. This is about getting the best outcome for children – who are so often the ones damaged during these court proceedings.'
Her Majesty's Courts Service launched the Family Mediation Helpline in May 2006. Trained operators provide information to callers about family mediation, whether it is suitable for particular cases and whether parties may be eligible for public funding.
Families can call the helpline on 0845 602 6627 or visit the Family Mediation Helpline website.
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