Liverpool law firms team up to launch Lawyer-Supported Mediation

Three legal practices in Liverpool have joined forces to launch a new family law service.

Law firms MSB Solicitors, 174 Law and Berkson Family Law Solicitors came together to establish a new option called Lawyer-Supported Mediation.

Aimed at the tens of thousands of separating families that cannot afford the hourly rates of high street divorce lawyers, the service was developed by social enterprise Dialogue First.

Lawyer-Supported Mediation will see the three companies agree to fix their fees at the same amount for any separating family that requires professional support in resolving child arrangements and financial matters.

The firms said the service will also promote informed dialogue between separating parents in the interests of their children.

MSB Solicitors’ head of family, partner Emma Carey, said: “We’re delighted to be involved in this initiative and it is fantastic to see it being led by local firms.

“By integrating our role as legal advisers with the largely untapped benefits of family mediation, we’re able to offer a full service to families who in many instances would otherwise not have reached out for support.”

She added: “The service is another example of how dynamic and forward-facing the legal sector is in Liverpool.”