If you’re a parent going through a separation or divorce, one of the biggest concerns is always how it will affect your children. When it comes to working out arrangements for child access, mediation is often recommended as a way to keep costs low and minimize conflict. However, many parents are left wondering just how much mediation for child access actually costs. As a leading mediation service, Rhino Mediation is here to help you make an informed decision for your family’s needs.
What Does Mediation for Child Access Involve?
Mediation for child access is a process where parents work with a neutral third party to reach a clear agreement on how to share time with their child or children. The mediator facilitates discussions and helps parents understand their options. The goal is to come up with a plan that’s in the best interests of the child, while also taking into account the schedules and needs of each parent. The mediator will draft an agreement that parents can take to a solicitor to make legally binding.
How Much Does Mediation for Child Access Cost?
The cost of mediation for child access can vary depending on a number of factors. Typically, mediators charge by the hour, and the hourly rate can range from £75 to £200. The number of sessions you need will depend on how complex your situation is and how easily you can come to an agreement. On average, most parents need between three and five sessions, which can total between £600 and £1,000. However, this cost is significantly less than going to court, where legal fees can quickly reach tens of thousands of pounds.
Benefits of Mediation for Child Access
Aside from being a more affordable option, there are many other benefits of choosing mediation for child access. Mediation generally takes less time than court proceedings, meaning you can have an agreement in place more quickly. It’s also a less adversarial process, reducing stress for everyone involved and helping to maintain better relationships between parents in the long run. Finally, mediation allows parents to have a more direct say in the outcome of their case, rather than having a decision made for them by a judge.
Other Costs to Consider
While the cost of the mediator is the most significant aspect of the cost, there are other expenses to consider as well. If either parent has legal representation, there will be solicitor’s fees to pay. Additionally, if you need to take time off work to attend sessions or need to pay for childcare during this time, these costs should also be factored in. However, it’s still likely that mediation will be a more affordable option than going to court.
A Cost-Effective and Cooperative Approach to Child Access
If you’re wondering how much mediation for child access costs, the answer is that it can vary depending on your situation. At Rhino Mediation, we charge an hourly rate, with most parents needing between three and five sessions. While this may seem like a significant cost upfront, it’s far less expensive than going through court proceedings. Additionally, mediation has many benefits, such as being less adversarial, taking less time, and giving parents more say in the outcome. If you need help working out access arrangements for your child, get in touch with the team at Rhino Mediation today.