Online Mediation
Resolve family issues from home with online mediation
You do not need to travel to in-person meetings to start resolving family issues. Online family mediation in England and Wales allows you to discuss child arrangements and financial matters from the privacy of your own home.
Key takeaways
- Online family mediation is available across England and Wales.
- It can help with child arrangements and financial issues after separation.
- Shuttle mediation may also be available if direct contact feels difficult.
- MIAMs can be held by video call.
- If financial agreement is reached, a solicitor may be able to turn the proposals into a consent order.
Why online family mediation works
Online mediation removes practical barriers such as travel, time away from work, and the pressure of attending in-person meetings.
- Flexible appointments: Sessions can take place by secure video call, making it easier to attend from home, work, or another private location.
- Structured discussions: The mediator manages the discussion so that both people have the chance to speak, relevant issues stay in focus, and practical solutions can be explored.
- Reduced tension: For some families, online meetings create enough distance to make the conversation calmer and easier to manage.
- Shuttle mediation options: If you do not want to be on screen with the other person, separate virtual rooms may be available. The mediator can move between you to manage the discussion.
How online mediation works
1. Online MIAM
You attend a private MIAM by video call. Before many private family court applications in England and Wales, attending a MIAM is usually required unless an exemption applies.
2. Joint online sessions
If mediation is suitable, online sessions can be used to discuss:
- child arrangements
- financial disclosure
- property issues
- pensions
- future communication
3. Outcome documents
If agreement is reached, the mediator may prepare documents such as:
- a Memorandum of Understanding
- an Open Financial Statement, where relevant
- a Parenting Plan, if children are involved
4. Next steps
If financial proposals are agreed, a solicitor can advise on turning them into a consent order for court approval where appropriate.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Is online mediation right for you?
Online mediation may be suitable for many family disputes, including child arrangements, school holiday planning, financial issues after separation, property discussions, pension issues, and ongoing financial support.
Suitability is always assessed individually. Where there are safeguarding concerns, urgency, or a serious imbalance, different arrangements or a different route may be more appropriate.
What if you do not reach agreement?
If you do not reach full agreement, mediation can still help narrow the issues and make the next step clearer. You can then take legal advice or consider other appropriate next steps.
Take the next step
Start resolving family issues from home
You do not always need to attend court or travel to meetings to make progress. Online mediation offers a practical and structured way to start resolving family disputes from wherever you are.