Family Mediation

with Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE

Mediation helps people resolve children and financial issues in a structured, confidential setting — focused on agreement, not escalation. At SKB Law, mediation is led by Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE, an experienced family solicitor and accredited mediator, with over 25 years’ experience supporting families through separation and change.

A culturally responsive mediation approach

Many people want mediation that understands the realities that sit alongside legal issues, including:

  • Family or community pressure
  • Religious or cultural expectations
  • Language or communication needs
  • Differing views on parenting or finances

Sarah’s mediation practice is shaped by deep legal experience with cultural context while keeping the focus on practical outcomes.
Language support: English · Urdu · Punjabi

Is mediation right for me?

Mediation is voluntary and usually works best where both people are willing to take part in good faith and focus on finding a practical agreement. It can be a good option for discussing arrangements for children or finances in a more constructive, cost-effective way than going straight to court.

However, it may not be suitable where there is coercion or controlling behaviour, a serious power imbalance, or any safeguarding concerns. In those situations, other routes may be more appropriate and we’ll advise you on the safest next step.

Fees and structure

Mediation fees depend on:

  • Whether issues relate to children, finances, or both
  • Complexity and number of sessions required

SKB Law mediation options include:

  • Initial mediation discussion
  • Mediation sessions (session-based or packaged)
  • Separate legal advice or formalisation, if required

Our Process How mediation works

  • 01.

    Initial discussion

    We start by understanding the issues, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to achieve. We’ll also check whether mediation is suitable and explain what the process would look like.

  • 02.

    Joint mediation sessions

    If appropriate, joint sessions are held (online or in person) to work through issues calmly and constructively. The mediator helps keep the conversation focused and ensures each person has a chance to be heard.

  • 03.

    Working towards agreement

    Discussions are guided and structured, with a focus on realistic, workable outcomes. Options are explored carefully so you can reach arrangements that are practical for day-to-day life.

  • 04.

    Written outcome

    Where agreement is reached, outcomes are recorded in writing so there is clarity about what’s been agreed. Mediation agreements aren’t automatically legally binding, and we can advise on the right legal step to formalise any agreement if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions