Mediation

Mediation is not marriage counselling or to help a couple to reconcile. It is a confidential service which you can avail of whether you are married or not.

All mediators are neutral. They will encourage both of you to cooperate with one another and work out an arrangement that you both agree on and will stick to. During mediation, you can meet with the mediator together or separately.

On average, mediation takes between three and six one-hour sessions.

If you have children, your mediator can ensure that the voice of the child is heard during the mediation process.

Your mediated agreement can be changed or amended as needed. If your mediated agreement is part of a court order you will need to go to court to do this.

If you have hired a solicitor to represent you as part of a divorce or judicial separation, the law states that they must inform you about mediation.

Mediation might not be appropriate in certain cases, for example if there has been domestic violence. A mediator can tell you whether your situation is suitable for mediation.

Where to find a mediator

• The Legal Aid Board offers a free family mediation service
• The Law Society of Ireland has details of solicitors who also offer a mediation service
• The Mediators' Institute of Ireland is the professional association for mediators in Ireland which can help you find a mediator
• Check local directories in your area for family support services that offer mediation