Below is some useful information on Family Mediation, Divorce, and Financial Settlement, For other useful information see our FAQ page here https://nationalfamilymediationservice.co.uk/faqs/
Navigating the legal process of separation, divorce, and financial settlement can be complex. In Bristol, as across England and Wales, there is a strong emphasis on resolving disputes outside of court through non-court dispute resolution (NCDR), primarily Family Mediation.
This guide outlines the essential steps and local resources available in Bristol for separating couples.
Since the introduction of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, the UK operates under a No-Fault Divorce system. This means that a person seeking a divorce no longer needs to attribute blame to their spouse.
The main legal stages are:
Crucially: Ending the marriage (The Final Order) does not automatically resolve financial matters.
Before either party can apply to the court for a financial order (Form A) or a Child Arrangements Order (Form C100), they are legally required (with certain exemptions) to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).
What is a MIAM?
The MIAM is a confidential, individual meeting with a qualified Family Mediator. Its purpose is to:
If mediation is deemed unsuitable, or if one party refuses to engage, the mediator will sign the necessary court form (Form A or C100), allowing the applicant to proceed with the court application. The court strongly encourages engagement in this process to reduce stress, conflict, and legal costs.
The division of assets—including the family home, savings, pensions, and debts—is handled separately from the divorce itself. The goal is to achieve a Financial Settlement.
Financial Disclosure
Whether through mediation or court proceedings, both parties must provide full and frank disclosure of their financial circumstances. This process ensures transparency and allows for informed negotiation. In mediation, the mediator will guide the parties on what documents are required (such as bank statements, property valuations, and pension statements).
The Role of the Consent Order
If you and your former spouse reach an agreement (whether in mediation or private negotiations), that agreement is not legally binding until it is approved and sealed by the Family Court in the form of a Consent Order.
A legally binding Consent Order serves two primary functions:
For residents of Bristol and the surrounding area, there are two key legal contact points: the local court and various accredited mediation providers.
Bristol Family Court – The primary judicial venue for all family matters, including Consent Order applications and disputed financial and child cases, is:
Bristol Civil and Family Justice Centre – 2 Redcliff Street, Bristol, BS1 6GR
Handles Divorce, Child Arrangements, Financial Remedy, and Domestic Abuse cases.
Located near Bristol Bridge and a short walk from Bristol Temple Meads station..
National Family Mediation accredited services operate in and around the city, offering remote (online) MIAMs and joint sessions, alongside physical offices in the city centre or nearby locations like Aztec West.
Our Mediators are registered with The Family Mediation Council (FMC) and we are an accredited service able to provide MIAM certificates which are valid for court applications.
We can help facilitate agreements regarding the division of assets, pension sharing, spousal maintenance, and child arrangements
National Family Mediation offers Services in the Bristol area.
Call the Team today on 03300 101 367 or fill out a contact form here.
Our Bristol Mediation Hub Strictly by Appointment Only. Location is not staffed.
Mediation and urgent MIAM appointments can be arranged online
Our Bristol Mediation Hub Address;
National Family Mediation Service in Bristol