Purpose
At SMG Mediation, we are committed to delivering the highest standards of service across civil, commercial, workplace, and family-related disputes. Where specific areas fall outside our regulated scope, such as MIAM certification or certain family law processes, we work in trusted partnership with accredited professionals to ensure our clients receive seamless, compliant, and expert support.

When Referrals Occur
We may refer clients to trusted external professionals in the following situations:

• • When a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is required for court purposes
  • When a case involves family mediation requiring FMC accreditation.
  • When legal advice or legal drafting is needed to make an agreement binding.
  • When a case includes specialist issues such as child arrangements, safeguarding, or complex family dynamics outside our scope.

Our Referral Approach
We only refer to:

• FMC-accredited family mediators
• SRA-regulated solicitors or barristers
• Therapists, financial advisers, consultants or partners who are qualified, insured, and ethically aligned with our practice

All referral partners are vetted for:

• Professional qualifications and regulatory compliance
• Expertise in their field
• Respect for confidentiality, neutrality, and inclusivity

How We Work with Partners
In some cases, we may offer: 

• Co-mediation, where we work jointly with a partner (e.g. a family mediator), and clearly define each professional’s role.
• Warm handovers, where we refer clients with full background context (with consent).
• Split invoicing or shared-service arrangements, explained upfront.

We always ensure:

• Client consent is obtained before making a referral.
• No commission or financial incentive is accepted for referrals (unless part of a transparent partner or affiliate agreement)
• Clients are free to choose whether to proceed with a referred provider or seek their own.

Fees & Transparency
If co-mediation is proposed

• • Clients will receive a clear breakdown of fees and the roles of each mediator.
  • SMG Mediation may retain a portion of the fee for our contribution to the process, which will be disclosed in writing.

Our Commitment
We believe in collaboration over competition always putting your needs, rights, and preferences at the centre of our work. If you have questions about any referral or want to use your own preferred provider, we are happy to support that.

Contact 
For enquiries about referrals or partnerships, contact: hello@smgmediation.co.uk www.smgmediation.co.uk

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