Understanding the Mediation Process in Scotland: How competent legal advice Can Help

Mediation might be the best option for you. But receiving the right legal advice in the background can be the difference between peace of mind and prolonged issues.

When Family Law legal disputes arise, it’s natural to think that the only way to resolve them is through litigation. However, there is another option: mediation. This voluntary process involves a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitating discussions between the parties to reach an agreement. The mediator does not provide legal advice but will tell you what the law can do.

This article provides an overview of the mediation process and the importance of using a competent and experienced family lawyer. This ensures that your rights are protected and all parties reach a satisfactory conclusion.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is gaining popularity in Scotland because it allows parties to resolve their disputes without going to court. This can save time, money, and emotional stress for all involved. Especially for the kids who can often be caught in the middle of an antagonistic divorce and separation process.

The mediator is a neutral third party who helps the parties reach an agreement that is acceptable to everyone. The mediator does not make a decision or impose a solution on the parties. Instead, the mediator helps the parties identify their needs and interests and encourages them to communicate effectively to find a solution that works for everyone.

However, while mediation can be a useful tool for resolving disputes, it is important to have a competent and experienced family lawyer mediating. This ensures that your rights are protected throughout the process. This is especially true in family law cases where emotions can run high, and the stakes are high.

The process:

The mediation process in Scotland is initiated when both parties contact a mediator. If the case is assessed as suitable, a joint session with the mediator and both parties is arranged.

At the first joint session, the mediator will explain the process and establish ground rules for the discussion. The mediator will also ask each party to explain their perspective on the dispute and what they hope to achieve through mediation. The mediator will then encourage the parties to communicate effectively and explore options for resolving the dispute.

Mediation is completely confidential as nothing said during the process can be used as evidence in court. This allows parties to speak freely and openly without the fear of their words being used against them later.

Throughout the process, having a competent family lawyer in the background ensures that your rights are protected. Your lawyer can provide you with legal advice and help you understand the legal implications of any proposed solutions. They also ensure that your interests are represented throughout the process.

Mediation expertise:

If you are facing a Family Law legal dispute in Scotland, and you want to explore the option of mediation, it is important to have a competent and experienced family lawyer working for your interests to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Scullion LAW’s multi-award-winning Family Law team is led by Judith Higson, a Collaborative Lawyer, a member of the Family Law Association, an Accredited Family Law Mediator and an Accredited Family Law Specialist with 20 years of legal experience.

At Scullion LAW, we understand the emotional and financial stress that legal disputes can cause, especially in family law cases. That’s why we offer a range of services to help our clients resolve their disputes as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our team of experienced family lawyers will provide you with legal advice and represent you throughout the mediation process to ensure that your interests are protected.

To learn more about our services and how we can help you resolve your legal dispute through mediation, please contact us today.