Terms of Service

1. Service Overview

Welcome to Peaceful Path Mediation UK ("we", "our", "us"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of our online family mediation services, including:

• Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMs)
• Family mediation sessions
• Document generation services
• Online platform access
• Related support services

By using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree with these Terms, please do not use our services.

2. Definitions

For the purposes of these Terms:

• "Client" means any individual using our mediation services
• "MIAM" means Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting
• "Mediation" means the structured process facilitated by a neutral mediator
• "Platform" means our online mediation portal and associated technology
• "Parties" means the individuals involved in the mediation process
• "Mediator" means our qualified family mediation professional
• "Session" means any scheduled mediation appointment
• "Agreement" means any arrangement reached through mediation

3. Our Services

3.1 MIAM Sessions

We provide individual MIAM sessions as required by UK family law before most court applications. These sessions:

• Are conducted via secure video call or phone
• Last approximately 60 minutes
• Cost £120 per person
• Include assessment of suitability for mediation
• Result in appropriate certification for court purposes

3.2 Mediation Services

Our mediation services include:

• Joint mediation sessions via secure video conferencing
• Neutral facilitation of discussions
• Assistance in exploring options and solutions
• Support in reaching mutually acceptable agreements
• Preparation of summary documentation

3.3 Document Services

We provide:

• Court-compliant document formatting
• Memorandum of Understanding preparation
• Open Financial Statement compilation
• Electronic document delivery

4. Booking and Payment

4.1 Service Fees

Our current fees are:

• MIAM Session: £120 per person
• Full Mediation Package: £650 per person (includes MIAM + up to 3 joint sessions)
• Additional Sessions: £150 per person per 90-minute session

4.2 Payment Terms

• Payment is required in advance of services
• We accept major credit/debit cards and bank transfers
• Fees are non-refundable except as specified in our cancellation policy
• All prices include VAT where applicable

4.3 Cancellation Policy

• 24+ hours notice: Full refund available
• 2-24 hours notice: 50% fee retained
• Less than 2 hours notice or no-show: Full fee retained
• Emergency cancellations will be considered on a case-by-case basis

5. Client Conduct

Clients agree to:

• Participate in mediation in good faith
• Treat all parties with respect and courtesy
• Arrive punctually for scheduled sessions
• Ensure a quiet, private environment for online sessions
• Maintain confidentiality of all mediation discussions
• Provide accurate and complete information when requested
• Not record sessions without express written consent

5.1 Unacceptable Behavior

We reserve the right to terminate mediation immediately if any party:

• Uses abusive, threatening, or discriminatory language
• Appears under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Attempts to intimidate or coerce the other party
• Violates confidentiality agreements
• Engages in any form of harassment

6. Confidentiality

Mediation is a confidential process. We maintain strict confidentiality regarding:

• All communications during mediation sessions
• Documents shared or created during the process
• Financial information disclosed
• Personal circumstances discussed

6.1 Exceptions to Confidentiality

Confidentiality may be breached only in the following circumstances:

• Disclosure of child abuse or risk of serious harm
• Criminal activity that poses a threat to public safety
• When required by court order
• With written consent from all parties
• To protect the safety of the mediator or staff

7. Technology Requirements

7.1 System Requirements

To use our online services, you need:

• Stable internet connection (minimum 2 Mbps)
• Computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera and microphone
• Updated web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
• Email account for communications and document delivery

7.2 Technical Support

• Basic technical support is included in our service
• Clients are responsible for their own equipment and internet connection
• Alternative arrangements (phone-only) available if needed
• Sessions may be rescheduled due to technical difficulties beyond our control

7.3 Data Security

We use industry-standard security measures including:

• End-to-end encryption for video calls
• Secure data storage and transmission
• Regular security audits and updates
• GDPR-compliant data handling procedures

8. Limitations of Service

Our mediation services are not suitable for cases involving:

• Domestic violence or abuse
• Significant power imbalances
• Mental health issues affecting capacity
• Substance abuse problems
• Where one party cannot participate voluntarily

8.1 What We Don't Provide

• Legal advice or representation
• Counseling or therapeutic services
• Guaranteed outcomes or agreements
• Enforcement of mediated agreements
• Ongoing case management after mediation

9. Termination

Mediation may be terminated by:

• Either party at any time
• The mediator if the process becomes unsuitable
• Mutual agreement of all parties
• Breach of these Terms of Service

9.1 Effect of Termination

• No refund for completed sessions
• Partial refund may apply for unused pre-paid sessions
• Confidentiality obligations continue
• Documents prepared up to termination remain available
• MIAM certificates will be issued where appropriate

10. Liability and Warranties

10.1 Limitation of Liability

Our liability is limited to the fees paid for our services. We are not liable for:

• Indirect, consequential, or special damages
• Loss of income or business opportunities
• Emotional distress or mental anguish
• Technical failures beyond our control
• Actions taken based on mediated agreements

10.2 Professional Indemnity

We maintain appropriate professional indemnity insurance covering our mediation services.

10.3 No Warranties

We provide services on an "as is" basis and make no warranties regarding:

• Successful resolution of disputes
• Enforceability of agreements reached
• Compatibility with all devices or browsers
• Uninterrupted availability of online services

11. Data Protection

We are committed to protecting your personal data in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

11.1 Data We Collect

• Contact information and identification details
• Financial information for service provision
• Case notes and mediation records
• Communication records and technical logs

11.2 Legal Basis for Processing

• Contract performance (providing mediation services)
• Legal obligation (MIAM requirements, safeguarding)
• Legitimate interests (service improvement, fraud prevention)

11.3 Data Retention

• Mediation records: 7 years after case closure
• Financial records: 6 years for tax purposes
• Marketing data: Until withdrawal of consent
• Technical logs: 12 months

For full details, please see our Privacy Policy.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising from these Terms or our services will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

12.1 Dispute Resolution

Before initiating legal proceedings, parties agree to attempt resolution through:

1. Direct negotiation with our management team
2. Independent mediation (if appropriate)
3. Formal complaint procedures

12.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

12.3 Amendment

We may update these Terms from time to time. Changes will be posted on our website with the effective date. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of updated Terms.