Mediation helps couples who have decided to separate to resolve any disputes they may have in relation to the key issues of custody and access to children , maintenance and property rights.
Mediation is not marriage counselling. Its purpose is not to help a couple to reconcile. The mediator is neutral and encourages the separating couple to co-operate with each other to work out mutually acceptable arrangements that they will stick to. Any separating couple can avail of mediation, whether they are married or not. This includes same sex couples.
For further information on mediation, visit the relevant page on the Citizens Information website
How to arrange mediation
The Family Mediation Service is provided free of charge by the Legal Aid Board. Contact the Family Mediation Service at the Legal Aid Board for a list of centres throughout the country.
There are also many private mediators. For details of accredited mediators, you can contact bodies including
- Mediation Forum - Ireland,
- Mediators Institute Ireland
- The Bar of Ireland
- The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Irish Branch
- Law Society of Ireland.