Do you have to have mediation?

[Brownsofa]

Hi,
Been separated two years now.mostly amicably.

My question is this ;

Am thinking of planning a DIY divorce, but I'm under the impression from some of the posts that everyone has to go through mediation?
On paper I am on good money but in reality I would not be able to afford mediation sessions if their £50 a time!?
The DIY divorce costs would be borrowed from parents an paid off, but I don't want to bump up too many costs.
Does anyone know the answer?
Many thanks

[McWeedie]

As far as I am aware, because this is what I have just done, you need to go to one mediation session to get some sort of certificate that enables you to apply for decree absolute, this certificate lasts for four months. It just seems to be a form filling exercise, I went on my own as STBXH was working. So if you do a DIY divorce wait till you get decree nisi through then add on the six weeks you have to wait - you can't apply for decree absolute before then, then do one session in mediation. Obviously you will need to get financials etc sorted before applying for decree absolute.

[Brownsofa]

Brilliant advice all, thank you x