Are mediation costs cheaper? Do the decisions hold much legal sway?

[stbex]

Difficult, difficult ex. Has been a very abusive and violent man. We don't have much in terms of assets other than a property we jointly own. I've been quoted legal costs of £1500 at the cheapest and £15000 at the most expensive in costs so far by a solicitor. My question is, what would happen if we go through mediation or come to an arrangement ourselves? If the latter, would we need to have that agreement certified by a solicitor? Would those costs be much less? We've been married 7 years and have 2 DC. Ex has a much higher salary than me with pension and bonuses and benefits.

A mediator will help guide you but what they suggest is not legally binding
if you can reach agreement a solicitor can draw that up and you’ll still need a judge to sign it off in a sealed consent order but likely be cheaper than fighting through solicitors wgich will soon rack up costs

what are you proposing as a split and how far disconnected are you?

Mediation is not recommended if there has been domestic abuse.

It is not legally binding (but can be used to demonstrate agreement, and can be useful to iron out niggles between amicable adults. Most of the mediators I had contact with were not legally qualified so I was actually recommended a really poor deal).

In your case op I would go straight down the court route. Get support from wikivorce, represent yourself and then hire a direct access barrister for the final hearing.