Business Details
Expert Family Mediation Services in Hitchin
Aurora Family Mediation has been supporting couples and families through separation and divorce for over two decades. As FMC Accredited mediators with legal expertise, we provide a confidential, client-focused service tailored to individual needs. Our team, led by Nicolette Zarka and Joy Burden, combines extensive mediation experience with a deep understanding of family law to facilitate amicable solutions. We operate across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and surrounding regions, offering flexible appointments including evenings, weekends, and online sessions. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our legal aid provision and participation in the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme.We prioritise open dialogue, helping clients navigate financial, child custody, and hybrid mediation matters efficiently. With offices in Hitchin, Letchworth, Welwyn Garden City, and other key locations, we ensure convenience for our clients. Our approach balances empathy with professionalism, guiding clients through challenging transitions while minimising conflict. We maintain rigorous professional standards through ongoing consultancy and mentoring within the mediation community. This dedication to excellence has earned us consistent positive feedback from clients who value our transparent, supportive process.
Services
Children Mediation
Financial Mediation
All Issues Mediation
Child Inclusive Mediation
Hybrid Mediation
Online Mediation
MIAMs
Professional Practice Consultancy
Highlights and features
- We are FMC Accredited mediators with over 20 years of combined experience.
- Our mediators hold dual qualifications as legal professionals and family specialists.
- We offer legal aid eligibility assessments at our Hitchin office.
- Flexible scheduling includes evening and weekend appointments.
- We participate in the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme covering up to 500 of costs.
Associations and certifications
- Family Mediation Council (FMC)
What people say
Second to none professionalism
Helpful to reach agreements
Amicable financial solutions
Supportive mediation process
Clear understanding achieved
Services
Children Mediation
We specialise in child-focused mediation to resolve custody and care arrangements. Our FMC-accredited mediators help parents create child-centred agreements covering holidays, education, and daily routines. This service ensures children's voices are heard through inclusive techniques while maintaining legal compliance.
Financial Mediation
Our legally qualified mediators guide couples through financial settlements including property division, spousal support, and debt management. We provide clear frameworks for sustainable agreements while considering tax implications and long-term financial stability for both parties.
Hybrid Mediation
This flexible service combines in-person and online sessions to accommodate client needs. We facilitate discussions covering multiple issues while maintaining structured progress through documented milestones and agreed communication protocols.
Online Mediation
We offer secure Zoom and WhatsApp platforms for remote mediation. Clients receive the same rigorous support from home with verified identity protocols ensuring confidentiality while eliminating travel requirements for greater convenience.
MIAMs
Mandatory Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings determine mediation suitability. We provide comprehensive guidance on court alternatives, explaining legal processes and funding options including legal aid eligibility assessments.
People
Nicolette Zarka
Lead Mediator
With over 20 years' experience, Nicolette is an FMC Accredited mediator and qualified lawyer. She specialises in complex family disputes and serves as a professional practice consultant for fellow mediators.
Joy Burden
Senior Mediator
Joy combines legal expertise with mediation skills to help families navigate separations. As an FMC Accredited mediator, she focuses on creating practical solutions tailored to clients' unique circumstances.
Questions
What does family mediation cost?
Mediation costs vary by case complexity but typically range from 1/5 to 1/20 of court proceedings. The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme covers up to £500 of costs.
How long does mediation take?
Most cases resolve in 2-4 sessions. MIAMs take 45-60 minutes, with full mediation sessions lasting up to 90 minutes depending on issue complexity.
Is mediation legally binding?
Agreements reached in mediation can be made legally binding through court approval. Our mediators explain this process during your initial assessment meeting.
Can we mediate if we live apart?
Yes, we offer online mediation via Zoom or WhatsApp. This allows separated couples to participate from different locations while maintaining structured communication through our platform.
What if my partner refuses mediation?
We recommend attending a MIAM to explore options. While mediation requires mutual participation, understanding court alternatives often encourages cooperative engagement in the process.
Do you offer legal aid?
Legal aid eligibility assessments are available at our Hitchin office. Funding depends on financial circumstances and case specifics as determined by official criteria.
