We understand that not all couples need or want to go to court when they are separating.

If you’re looking for mediation in the North East a number of barristers in Fountain Chambers are professionally trained family mediators who can help you resolve issues around children or finance without resorting to litigation.

They carry out their mediation practice through Fountain Mediation Limited, a specialist mediation service, and have been trained with the Family Mediators’ Association, one of the national mediation governing bodies.

Although public funding for legal advice was withdrawn for many family cases in April 2013, it remains available for mediation where you qualify financially. If you require help with sorting out difficulties with residence or contact or the financial consequences of your divorce and would prefer to avoid court then mediation may be an option for you.