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Can anyone tell me please what questions are asked by the mediator when attending for the first time?
Obviously they need some information to work with but should their questions entail asking about finances, possessions etc.
I was under the impression that the starting point and priority for the mediator was for both parents to come to an amicable agreement for both to have access to the child/children.
As I understand it, the mediators role is one of guidance. If the mediation sessions concern the financial side of divorce then I would imagine they would be party to some disclosure. Like you say their priority is to enable both parties to reach agreement between themselves.
Thank you for your reply.
One party attended with me accompanying once only, the other party never did attend.
The negotiator brought the subject of finances up and was not happy when it was made clear by the parent that he was not attending to discuss this subject but wanted to negotiate and come to some agreement regarding access.
I was left with the impression the negotiator was "throwing his toys out of the pram" as he became quite hostile because he wanted to discuss finances and the parent didn't. I've wondered since if that is one of the primary questions asked to get some kind of background to a case.
This doesn't sound right to me!
Contact and supporting a child financially are two completely separate issues. There would be absolutely no need to discuss finances when the mediation is to try and establish contact.
The National Family Mediation website had a helpline I think, it might be a good idea to give them a call and ask them about this.
www.nfm.org.uk
0300 4000 636
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