26-30 January 2026, marks Family Mediation Week; a key national initiative to raise awareness of family mediation as a constructive, cost-effective alternative to court proceedings when relationships break down in families.
Our dedicated family law and divorce team believes in the power of mediation to reduce conflict, preserve relationships, especially when children are involved to create the best outcomes for individual families.
Why choose Family Mediation?
Family mediation can be a transformative step in resolving the practical issues that follow a separation. Here’s why many couples choose mediation first:
1. You remain in control
Unlike court decisions, mediation puts you and your former partner in control allowing you to lead conversations, choose the topics, pace and priorities of discussion.
2. Often faster & more cost-effective
Achieving a resolution in mediation is usually quicker than through the court process, meaning lower costs, less time and reduced stress.
3. Better for families and children
Mediation encourages constructive communication, where families and children come first; an important foundation for co-parenting and long-term family wellbeing.
4. Confidential and supportive environment
Mediation takes place in a neutral, confidential setting where both parties can speak openly through structured conversations, staying on topic.
How does Mediation work?
At Debenhams Ottaway, before mediation begins, Helen will conduct an initial assessment with each party to explore how mediation can support your situation and how to get the most from the sessions.
Once both parties agree to proceed, mediation sessions are typically around 90 minutes long and usually take place over several meetings, allowing time to address your unique circumstances and work toward mutually acceptable outcomes.
When agreements are reached, Helen can prepare a Memorandum of Understanding summarising what you’ve agreed together. While not legally binding on its own, this document forms the basis for your solicitors to convert the agreement into enforceable terms if needed.
Meet our expert family Mediator
Helen Clyne, Senior Lawyer in our Family Law & Divorce team and trained family mediator. Helen guides separating couples through every step of the mediation process, whether you’re resolving child arrangements or financial matters. Sessions are offered in person at our St Albans and Radlett offices or remotely via Teams, making mediation accessible no matter where you are in the UK.
Helen’s approach is neutral, compassionate and focused on helping both parties engage productively, with the shared goal of reaching a fair and workable agreement outside of court. Her role is to facilitate dialogue in a safe, structured way so that couples can understand each other’s priorities and find solutions together.
What our mediation clients say…
“Helen is an exceptional solicitor; I am so glad she is on our side.”
“Helen has made such a difference to my wellbeing and future. She did a lot that was exceptional and beyond the call of duty.”
“Helen grasps every detail and is on top of them all the time, has great availability and confidence to push back in a way the client understands and goes with.”
Who We Are: Our Family Law Team
We have a long history of looking after couples and families in St Albans, across Hertfordshire and beyond, described in The Legal 500 as “one of the strongest outside London and holds its own in all cases”. Our family law experts specialise in helping clients through separation, divorce and complex family issues with clarity and support.
We work with individuals, couples (including same-sex couples) and parents to assist with:
- Child arrangements and co-parenting plans
- Financial settlements following divorce or separation
- Property and asset division
- Maintenance and support arrangements
- Relocation and international family issues
- Nuptial agreements and reviews of existing arrangements
Whether you’re considering mediation or need tailored legal advice on family matters, our team is here to help you navigate the legal landscape with care and professionalism.
Talk to us today
Mediation allows you to choose a thoughtful, constructive way forward. If you want to explore mediation or need expert legal support with family law issues, contact us:
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.