Robert Barber Solicitors has received a boost to its Eastwood team following Sharon Cobham's latest qualification which will enable her to offer family mediation – an independent way to settle divorce disputes out of court.

Sharon, a family solicitor with more than 20 years of legal experience, has undertaken extensive training in London and is now able to offer a family mediation service to the firm's clients. She will add family mediation work to her existing portfolio of family law matters including divorce, separation, relationship breakdowns, property and children disputes for the firm's clients as an alternative non-confrontational way of resolving things.

Family mediation is a process which enables couples to discuss the issues arising from their separation in a neutral, informal environment with an independent third person, the mediator. It is an approach which enables couples to retain control over what is happening to them and to reach their own decisions rather than have them imposed upon them by a court. It is generally much quicker and cheaper than court proceedings. It is a confidential process which helps to focus on the real issues whilst aiming to minimise the conflict at what is a difficult time for everyone.

The qualification is something Sharon wanted to do to enhance her understanding in this area. She commented: "I found the course very valuable and it has helped me gain a much better understanding of the benefits of family mediation and has now added the theory behind it to my existing knowledge.

Robert Barber has three Nottinghamshire practices in Hucknall, West Bridgford and Eastwood. Its three partners specialise in a range of legal services including family law, personal injury claims, civil litigation, probate and wills, employment law, conveyancing, personal administration and leases and business transfers.