Press release

Helping resolve family disputes amicably: qualified mediator adds to teams strengths

In recent years cohabitation has gained greater acceptance than marriage which has affected the divorce rate, falling to its lowest level since 1984 to 12.2 divorcing people per 1,000 married population in 2006 (Office For National Statistics).

However, as with marriage, the longer the relationship lasts the greater the possibility of legal problems occurring if the relationship breaks down.

Mediation is becoming increasingly prevalent in the field of family law. Desmond O'Donnell, Senior Associate and dual qualified mediator at Thomson Snell & Passmore comments:  "Instead of negotiating with your partner at arms’ length through your own separate solicitors or battling it out through the courts, you and your partner work together with the help of a trained family mediator to resolve those issues yourselves."

Mediation brings real benefits - reduces tension and hostility and helps couples make informed decisions about their futures and is a viable and cost effective means of resolving disputes.  Desmond adds: "Mediation is particularly important where children are involved. They benefit from knowing that their parents are working together to sort things out".

Partner and Head of Family, Barbara Wright explained: “There are very few law firms in Kent which offer mediation.  Local couples know only too well that when relationships break down, emotions run high. Desmond can work with couples together to reach the right decisions and ultimately reduce tension".

Des O'Donnell