Legal Aid Mediation
At British Family Mediation Service, we understand that the emotional and financial pressures of separation or family disputes can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re proud to offer legal aid mediation support — so that cost doesn’t stand between you and a fair, family‑focused resolution.
Our experienced, accredited mediators help families across England & Wales find practical agreements on children, finances, property and more — all in a neutral, respectful environment, without the need for costly court battles.
What Is Legal Aid Mediation?
Legal aid mediation is government‑funded financial support that can cover part or all of the cost of family mediation when you meet certain eligibility criteria. Essentially, if you qualify, the cost of your mediation can be funded by Legal Aid, helping you resolve your dispute without incurring expensive legal fees.
To include:
- Your initial Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)
- Joint mediation sessions after your MIAM
- Support towards legal advice linked to agreements reached during mediation
- Assistance with turning a mediated agreement into a legally recognised consent order (Help with Family Mediation scheme)
How Legal Aid Mediation Works With Us
Initial MIAM
Meeting
Legal Aid Eligibility Check
Joint Mediation Sessions
Agreements & Next Steps: When you reach an agreement, we guide you on what to do next to make it legally binding.
Why Choose Legal Aid Mediation?
✔ Developing Value, Serves to Lower or Remove Mediation Costs
✔ Helps you settle disputes without going to court
✔ Puts decision‑making in your hands
✔ Is child-centred and prioritises the interests of children
✔ Facilitated by trained, accredited mediators
Not only can the mediation process be helped in this way, but if one party qualifies for legal aid, funding will typically apply to both parties for sessions.
Even if only one party qualifies for legal aid, the mediation process can still be supported, and often, both parties will benefit from funded sessions
Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Aid Mediation
Who can get legal aid mediation?
Legal aid mediation is means‑tested — eligibility depends on your income, savings, benefits and financial circumstances. Those on a low income, with certain benefits, or with limited savings are more likely to qualify.
Does legal aid cover all mediation costs?
If you’re eligible, legal aid can cover your MIAM and subsequent mediation sessions. If only one party qualifies, legal aid often covers that person’s costs and may also cover the other party’s initial sessions.
Is mediation mandatory before court?
In many family disputes, attending a MIAM is a legal requirement before going to court unless an exemption applies (e.g., domestic abuse, safety concerns). Legal aid mediation ensures this requirement can be met without fees.
Can I still get a legally binding agreement?
Yes — while mediation itself isn’t legally binding, we can guide you toward the Help with Family Mediation scheme and help you work with a legal professional to turn your agreement into a consent order.
What if I don’t qualify for legal aid mediation?
If you don’t meet the criteria, we can still support you through our standard mediation services and discuss affordable options to help you resolve your dispute without going to court.