The Practical Effects of the New Family Proceedings Rules 2024 on MIAMs and Non-Court Dispute Resolution

Corinna A Schiffer, Accredited Family Mediator and Founder, Farnham Mediation; Door tenant and former barrister, 5 Pump Court Chambers

This article starts by exploring mental health among the UK population at large, as measured by global surveys. Thereafter it focusses on the mental health picture presented by separating families, especially children, drawing on findings from recent studies. An overview is given of the number of family cases coming to the courts and how they are dealt with.

This context leads to a discussion of the content, aims and possible practical effects of the Family Proceedings Rules 2024 on Non-Court Dispute Resolution. The author analyses their likely efficacy or lack thereof.

The need for further government initiatives is considered, including an appraisal of the voucher scheme for child-related mediation. This leads to an investigation of the ways in which the public can be made more aware of the nature and benefits of mediation. A comparison is drawn between the outcomes achieved in family mediation and court- adjudicated cases with supporting statistics.

Read the full article here.