Background: A Relationship Ends, But Parenting Continues

John and Zoe had been married for five years when they made the mutual decision to separate. As they adjusted to life apart, John found himself feeling increasingly frustrated and disconnected — particularly from his young son.

Despite having previously been an active and present father, John felt his contact with his son had become too limited after the separation. Tensions rose, and John began preparing to take legal action through the courts.

A Turning Point: The Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)

Before John could apply to court, he was required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). It was during this meeting that things began to shift.

The mediator explained how family mediation worked, and how it could offer a quicker, more collaborative and child-focused alternative to a lengthy and expensive legal process. John realised that court may not be his only option — and possibly not the best one.

To his relief, Zoe agreed to try mediation. A first joint session was arranged within a week.

The Process: Fast, Focused and Constructive

With the help of a professional mediator, John and Zoe were able to work through their disagreements in a calm, structured environment. The mediator helped them:

• Focus on their shared goal: supporting their child’s relationship with both parents

• Build a realistic parenting plan that balanced time fairly

• Reduce emotional tension through neutral, guided dialogue

After just two sessions, they reached a clear, workable agreement. There was no need to pursue the court application.

The Outcome: More Time with His Son, Less Financial Strain

By choosing mediation over court, John avoided significant legal costs — an estimated £5,000 if the case had gone to a contested hearing.

Instead, the entire mediation process cost less than £800, and most importantly, ensured he regained meaningful time with his son.

“I was ready for a legal fight — mediation saved me the stress and the money, and most of all, it gave me back my time with my son.”

What This Case Demonstrates

John and Zoe’s experience highlights the real-world benefits of family mediation, particularly when parents are on the brink of court proceedings. From faster outcomes and reduced costs to improved emotional outcomes for children, mediation can offer a far more constructive path.