Resolve it together,
without court.
Mediation helps people resolve children and financial issues in a structured, confidential setting — focused on agreement, not escalation. Led by Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE, an accredited mediator with over 25 years’ family law experience.
Culturally responsive
mediation
Many people want mediation that understands the realities that sit alongside legal issues — family or community pressure, religious or cultural expectations, language or communication needs, differing views on parenting or finances.
Sarah’s mediation practice is shaped by deep legal experience and cultural context, while keeping the focus on practical, workable outcomes.
Languages: English · Urdu · PunjabiWhen mediation works
- Both parties are willing to take part in good faith
- You want to avoid the cost and delay of court
- You want more control over the outcome
- Children’s welfare is a shared priority
- You want to preserve a working co-parenting relationship
- Coercive control or domestic abuse is present
- There is a serious power imbalance
- There are urgent safeguarding concerns
Mediation vs. court
How mediation works
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01
Initial Mediation Discussion (MIAM)
We start with a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) — a mandatory first step before applying to court. We assess suitability, explain the process, and answer your questions.
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02
Joint Sessions
Joint sessions are held online or in person to work through issues calmly and constructively. The mediator helps keep the conversation focused and ensures each person is heard.
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03
Working Towards Agreement
Discussions are guided and structured, with a focus on realistic, workable outcomes. Options are explored carefully so you can reach arrangements that work in day-to-day life.
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04
Written Outcome
Where agreement is reached, outcomes are recorded in writing. Mediation agreements aren’t automatically legally binding — we can advise on the right step to formalise any agreement.
Common questions
What is a MIAM?
A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting — usually a 45 to 60-minute meeting where the mediator explains the process, assesses whether mediation is suitable, and answers your questions. It’s a mandatory step before most family court applications.
Is mediation legally binding?
Not automatically. The outcome of mediation is recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding, which becomes binding when formalised — for example, through a Consent Order for finances or a Child Arrangements Order. We’ll advise on the right next step.
Can mediation cover both children and finances?
Yes. Mediation can address children’s arrangements, financial settlement, property, pensions and ongoing support — either together or as separate strands depending on what you need.
How long does mediation take?
Typically three to five joint sessions over a few weeks to a few months, depending on complexity. Many people resolve everything they need to in fewer sessions than they expected.
What if we can’t agree in mediation?
Your options aren’t closed off. The mediator can issue a court certificate (the MIAM step is satisfied) and you can move to solicitor-led negotiation, arbitration, or court proceedings. Anything discussed in mediation remains confidential.
Is mediation suitable where there has been domestic abuse?
Generally not where there is current coercive control or safety concerns. The MIAM screens for this carefully. If mediation isn’t appropriate, we’ll signpost the right route — including protective orders, legal advice, and direct court applications.
Can I get legal advice during mediation?
Yes — and we recommend it. The mediator stays neutral and cannot advise either party. Many clients work alongside a solicitor who advises on the legal implications of options being explored.
Is mediation cheaper than going to court?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. Mediation is paid by the session with no court fees, and reaches resolution faster — meaning substantially lower overall costs than contested proceedings.
Get clarity in one hour.
A Strategy Session with SKB Law is a focused, solicitor-led meeting. You’ll leave with a clear picture of where you stand, your options, and a written action plan.