Mediation is about the practical and legal arrangements you and your partner make about your children, home, possessions and finances. It is a way of settling disputes after your marriage or relationship breaks down. Mediation is especially beneficial when children are concerned because it dramatically shortens the period of anxiety caused by not knowing what will happen in their futures. When the process is complete, you may each take a copy of your proposals reflected in you Memorandum of Understanding and a copy of your Open Statements of Financial Information to your respective solicitors for their comments, before it is submitted to the court in the form of a "consent order". If it is appropriate to do so, the court will make orders confirming your arrangements. Contact ACCORD for a free initial appointment where the legal process of separation and divorce will be explained along with what type of mediation is appropriate. We will also assess your eligibility for legal aid, and answer any questions you may have