Mediation

Interesting. A rather painful experience - but not for reasons I was expecting. Wife went 30 minutes before I did - a bit of form filling re legal aid - NOT ELIGIBLE - and then a discussion with Counsellor as to what she wants etc. Then change round and I go in - form filling for legal aid - NOT ELIGIBLE - surprise surprise.

Then it was the joint discussion with us both present. It was very amicable - forms re finances were explained - and possibility that things could be resolved amicably were discussed - wife mooted that I got 40k - a 30% share - I suggested 40% as advised by solicitor. So we are only 12k apart. Apparently wifes request for her pension stats will take up to 3 months - mine will probably only take a few weeks - postmans strike permitting. Further appt made for 1 months time but we wil be cancelling that as little point going back without the figures sorted out.

Still need to resolve living expenses - as currently I'm still paying all household bills - whilst she pays pays for foood, clothes and incidentals. Not an even split that needs sorting out.

Mediation then finished - and although we were both advised it was £125 an hour + vat - didn't realise they meant each - OUCH! £300 is a little steep for one hour - no wonder the Counsellor came down from Cumbria - I'd walk from the Shetlands for that hourly rate!