DIVORCE MEDIATION IN EUROPE An Introductory Outline(ll Miquel Martin Casals (University of Girona, Spain)ii[2] Readers are reminded that this work is protected by copyright. While they are free to use the ideas expressed in it, they may not copy, distribute or publish the work or part of it, in any form, printed, electronic or otherwise, except for reasonable quoting, clearly indicating the source. Readers are permitted to make copies, electronically or printed, for personal and classroom use. Contents 1. Introduction 2. The current state of fami ly mediation in Europe according to national law and practice 2. I Family mediation in Eastern Europe 2. 2 Family mediation in Southern europe 2.3 Fami ly mediation in Northern Europe 2. 4 Family mediation in Western Europe 2.4.1 Germany 2.4.2Fr 2. 4.2. 1 Origins and development 2.4.2.2 French legislation 2. 4.3 England and Wales 2. 4. 4 Other countries, in particular Belgium and Austria 2.4.4.1Au 2.4.4.2 Belgium Introduction It is well known that 'divorce mediation is a dispute resolution process in which, as an alternative to judicial or administrative decision-making, the spouses are assisted by an impartial andDIVORCE MEDIATION IN EUROPE: An Introductory Outlinei[1] Miquel Martín Casals (University of Girona, Spain)ii[2] Readers are reminded that this work is protected by copyright. While they are free to use the ideas expressed in it, they may not copy, distribute or publish the work or part of it, in any form, printed, electronic or otherwise, except for reasonable quoting, clearly indicating the source. Readers are permitted to make copies, electronically or printed, for personal and classroom use. Contents 1. Introduction 2. The current state of family mediation in Europe according to national law and practice 2.1 Family mediation in Eastern Europe 2.2 Family mediation in Southern Europe 2.3 Family mediation in Northern Europe 2.4 Family mediation in Western Europe 2.4.1 Germany 2.4.2 France 2.4.2.1 Origins and development 2.4.2.2 French legislation 2.4.3 England and Wales 2.4.4 Other countries, in particular Belgium and Austria 2.4.4.1 Austria 2.4.4.2 Belgium Notes Introduction It is well known that ‘divorce mediation’ is a dispute resolution process in which, as an alternative to judicial or administrative decision-making, the spouses are assisted by an impartial and