At the initial assessment meeting, the mediator will explain the legal process of separation and divorce, whether and what type of mediation is appropriate for you, assess your eligibility for Legal Aid and answer any questions you may wish to ask. You may be entitled to LEGAL HELP according to your financial circumstances, in which case Mediation will be free. If you are granted FREE MEDIATION you will have no costs to repay at the end of your Mediation, unlike work carried out by your solicitor under Legal Aid, where your costs may have to be repaid. You may also see your solicitor for free advice under a help with Mediation Certificate. Private Clients If your gross monthly income is £2,530 or more it is unlikely you will be eligible for any assistance. Private client rates start from £98+vat per hour depending on the complexity of finances to be resolved. Many clients attend up to 4 sessions, have documents prepared and will have only incurred costs of around £1000 compared with costs of £5 - £8k through their solicitors, with issues taking longer to resolve. You will only pay for the meetings you attend and if applicable any documents prepared if settlement is reached.