Despite the current lockdown, and although it is only the beginning of November, many people are starting to prepare for the festive season.
Separating families may have difficulty making arrangements for their children over the Christmas period.
Around one in three separating families have applied to court about child arrangements, and with the difficulties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the courts are encouraging separating parents to try and resolve issues through mediation rather than going to court.
There has even been a recent case where the court has warned parents that they may be penalised with costs orders if they go to court on issues which could be resolved elsewhere.
It is probably already too late to make an application to court about Christmas arrangements, but fortunately, there is still plenty of time to deal with this issue through mediation or child arbitration.
Our mediator, Zen Thompson is able to help with these issues, and can see children as part of the mediation process. He is also experienced in managing mediations with solicitors present.
Zen is also a qualified children arbitrator and can adjudicate on child arrangements, not only on Christmas arrangements, but also issues on taking children abroad (whether holidays or permanently.
One of the benefits of mediation and arbitration is that matters can be dealt with far more quickly than through court.
Christmas can often be a very stressful time for separated families, and as has been reported by the Children’s Commissioner, children are suffering from stress more than ever this year. Mediation and arbitration can help children by providing certainty in uncertain circumstances.
For more information and to find out how we can help you, please contact us on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our Team will be in touch.