A YORK firm of solicitors is rebranding its family mediation practice in a bid to raise awareness of the benefits of the service.

Crombie Wilkinson, which has offices in York, Selby and Malton, will rename its current family mediation practice as Your Family First from next week as it seeks to promote the benefits of mediation over costly legal disputes and to recognise its increasing growth in mediation work.

It will also be offering advice online to local families plus a new coaching services.

Chris Myles, a family mediator at Crombie Wilkinson said: "Divorce can cost families thousands of pounds in unnecessary legal fees and cause huge emotional stress on all involved.

"What’s more, recent changes in the law mean that all couples going through a divorce have to see a mediator before their financial case or children matter case can be considered by the court.

"We believe mediation at the start of the divorce process is in the best interests of all parties, particularly if there are children involved, and it will typically save a couple £6,000 in legal costs."

Under the Your Family First banner, the company has created a range of leaflet for families, as well as a coaching service with a qualified, legally experienced life coach to help individuals plan for the future.

Mr Myles added: "Divorce is a very emotional time. Trying to understand the complications of the divorce process can be overwhelming.

"Through Your Family First, we are trying to make it simple with a more family-centred approach than you may typically experience in a legal environment.