Battens gets ready for hike in mediation with separating couples

A LAW firm based in Yeovil is gearing up for a rise in family mediation work early in the New Year.

The preparations by Battens Solicitors reflect a customary increase in instructions from separating couples in the first working weeks after what can be a stressful Christmas break.

Battens has four qualified mediators ready to help at its offices in Yeovil, Sherborne, Dorchester and Weymouth, with weekend and evening appointments available.

The demand for mediation, which seeks to resolve family law cases before they get to court, is also set to increase from spring 2013 due to anticipated government cuts in the civil legal aid budget.

Cherise Luke-Bennett (pictured), an accredited mediation lawyer and head of Battens’ family mediation department, said: “We have prepared for what we believe will be a very busy start to 2013. Mediation is already becoming the preferred way to settle family law disputes involving children, money and property.

"On top of that, we can anticipate the typical rise in New Year instructions as couples decide to separate due to relationship difficulties and financial burdens coming to a head over Christmas. We can expect another rise in demand when restrictions to legal aid for family take effect.”  

Battens has been strengthening its family mediation team since April 2011 when the forthcoming changes to legal aid were first mooted. The firm has provided training to solicitors and department heads via the Family Mediation Council, the body that regulates practice standards, and the lawyers’ organisation Resolution.

Mrs Luke-Bennett and colleague Martin Davis were the first to qualify followed by fellow solicitors Leanne Weatherill and Alison Crozier.

Mrs Luke-Bennett said: “Depending on the circumstances, cases can typically be resolved with an average of three face-to-face sessions. We offer a free half-hour preliminary meeting to each person separately to discuss the mediation process to see whether mediation is the right option.”       

Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process designed to help joint decision making without the need to pay court costs and is considerably quicker than court. Working in a safe, neutral setting, trained and qualified mediators help parties reach their own agreements as they separate or divorce. 

Battens’ Family Department provides practical legal advice and representation on all aspects of family law including divorce, cohabitation, children’s matters, finance and protection against domestic violence. Lawyers work from all four of Battens offices.

For more information contact Battens on 01935-846000.

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