West Bridgford-based solicitor Patrick Mullins, a partner at Robert Barber Solicitors, has become one of the first solicitors in the East Midlands to be appointed to the new Law Society�s Family Mediation Panel.

The panel was established on August 1st of this year by the Law Society to ensure that lawyers and people who practice mediation comply with standards laid down by the Law Society. There are less than 70 practitioner members in the whole of the UK.

Any trained solicitor wishing to take up a family mediation role has to undergo further training and preparation. To become a trained mediator Mr Mullins had to successfully complete an extensive programme in mediation techniques to equip him with all of the information and techniques needed to help two people discuss a difficult situation in a constructive way. As a trained family mediator he must remain impartial when helping families and couples resolve disputes amicably without the need to go through court.

A member of the UK College of Mediators, Mr Mullins believes that mediation is the key to resolving many disputes amicably.

He explained: �Taking family disputes through the courts is not only extremely costly but can also lead to a permanent breakdown in relations, which often helps no one. Mediation can help in a lot of situations and more and more people are recognising the benefits of using it.

�Robert Barber was one of the first firms of solicitors to offer a family mediation service, Accord Mediation, in 1997. With my recent appointment to the Family Mediation Panel, I aim to continue to keep Robert Barber at the forefront of providing mediation services in the region.�

Robert Barber Solicitors one of the longest established firms of solicitors in Nottinghamshire. It has four offices - in West Bridgford, Eastwood, Hucknall and Mansfield - which specialise in family mediation, family and employment law, probate and wills, personal injury, conveyancing, civil litigation and personal administration.

For further information about the Accord Mediation service contact 08700 123 321.