Which type of Mediation is best for me?

March 13, 2026

Family mediation plays an important role in helping separating couples resolve disputes constructively without the confrontation, expense, and delays often associated with going to court.  Children matters and financial matters can both be discussed in mediation.  The mediator will remain impartial, reality check any proposals, and work with the parties to find a workable agreement that can, where required, be made into a legally binding order. 

If there is a dispute over the living or educational arrangements for your children, the mediator will assist in trying to fix a pattern of shared care and in drafting a schedule detailing with whom your child is going to live or spend time with.

Where there is a dispute over the division of the available financial resources, or how bills are going to paid prior to and post separation, these matters can be discussed with your mediator whose role could extend to trying to assist you to agree a whole package of financial settlement terms which can then be made into a legally binding order.

Before having your first joint mediation session, you will need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) on your own in order that your mediator can assess whether mediation will be suitable for you.  For example, if there are allegations of abuse between the parties, mediation may not be appropriate. 

Mediation is voluntary and can be stopped at any point.  It is confidential save for anything discussed that may raise safeguarding concerns. 

If mediation is suitable, the sessions can then be conducted in person in the same room, or in person in different rooms, or online via Teams.  Specific requests such as having a friend or family member there in support can be considered with the mediator in each individual mediation. 

1. In person mediation

Both parties meet with the mediator in a shared space (whether in person or online).
The mediator will assist in finding a mutually acceptable solution without imposing decisions. 

2. Shuttle mediation

In situations involving high conflict, anxiety, or communication difficulties, shuttle mediation keeps the parties separate.
The mediator moves between two rooms, or online breakout spaces, sharing proposals and facilitating negotiation. 
This model reduces anxiety and provides time for reflection whilst the mediator moves between each party to exchange ideas.

3. Child‑Inclusive mediation

Children will be invited to attend and be spoken to by the mediator.  Child attendance is particularly valuable in cases involving:

  • Their living arrangements
  • The need for a detailed parenting plan
  • Emotional or wellbeing concerns

This approach supports child‑focused decision‑making and is increasingly recognised within UK mediation principles as giving the child a voice.

4. Hybrid Mediation

In hybrid mediation, the parties’ lawyers are involved in the process.  Whereas in traditional mediation the parties typically take legal advice between the mediation sessions, in hybrid mediation the solicitors attend with their clients.  The mediator speaks to each party and their lawyers privately and will skilfully pass back and forth only that information that they are permitted to share.  This can assist in navigating difficult issues and in finding a solution that might otherwise not be achieved. 

5. Integrated family mediation

This approach encourages the attendance of all necessary professionals or specialists at the same meeting e.g. accountants, solicitors, counsellors. 

The goal is to find the best mediation option for you and your family in the hope that an agreed outcome can be negotiated and court proceedings avoided.

How can we help

If you are interested in exploring out-of-court options for resolving family disputes, please contact us. 

Sarah Speed
Partner, Family
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This reflects the law and market position at the date of publication and is written as a general guide. It does not contain definitive legal advice, which should be sought in relation to a specific matter.

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