The Family Mediation Council (FMC) has stated that the rates of legal aid available to family mediators are inadequate.
This statement comes in the wake of a new report from the Justice Select Committee. The finding of that report is that there is a lack of mediation services in areas of the UK, partly due to legal aid rates. The report also calls for steps to be taken to remedy the situation. Now, the FMC is adding its voice to that call, with family mediator legal aid rates having stayed the same for a quarter of a century.
It points out that the number of those mediators has fallen because many cannot afford to provide the service. The FMC also states that some accredited mediators are still offering their services, but cutting back. It concludes that the result is greater pressure on the family court system.
This is an analysis that most family law barristers in North Wales will agree with. Barristers and solicitors typically recommend mediation to clients before taking a case to court.
Stephen Burke is the FMC chair. He told Today’s Family Lawyer:
“Legal aid is becoming a right on paper rather than a service that families can actually access. There is little point qualifying for legal aid if you cannot find a mediator who is able to take your case.”
One of the steps advised in the report is to offer mediators financial compensation for legal aid cases.
For help with matters relating to family law in North Wales, contact Bennett Smith Solicitors today.
