Family Mediation

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Almost always, problems are best solved when people talk but, sometimes, a helping hand makes talking easier.

Family mediation can help separating couples and families resolve disputes in a constructive and dignified way, without the need for court proceedings. It is often quicker, less costly, and less adversarial than litigation, allowing families to retain control over important decisions.

Mediation can assist with a wide range of family matters, including:

arrangements for children following separation or divorce
financial issues, including property and other assets
ongoing co-parenting arrangements
family disputes when communication has broken down.

What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a well-established process involving an independent and impartial mediator whose function is to support open and constructive discussion. Confidential and voluntary, mediation is particularly effective when the participants involved wish to prioritise the welfare of children and reduce conflict. Sessions usually take place in our comfortable offices in Chichester, however, we also offer shuttle mediation if those involved prefer to be in separate rooms.

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We can also facilitate remote, online mediation using one of a variety of video platforms. The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable. Your first meeting with the mediator will be on a one-to-one basis, called a mediation information and assessment meeting (MIAM), during which the mediator will discuss with you what it is you are hoping to resolve through mediation and assess whether mediation is the right pathway for you.

The role of the mediator

Mediators listen to find out what is important to you, helping you make your own choices and decisions about the way forward for you and your family. The mediator does not take sides or impose decisions but will help participants explore options and work towards mutually acceptable outcomes.

The mediator will not provide legal advice but can give information, assist with working towards long term solutions, reality-check proposals, and provide outcome documentation. Our family mediator is a qualified solicitor and a member of the Family Mediation Council (FMC), which ensures our mediation services meet recognised professional and ethical standards.

Why choose mediation?

Family mediation is strongly encouraged because it:

• reduces emotional stress and conflict
• helps you make informed decisions that are right for you and your family
• is often more cost-effective than court proceedings
• allows for flexible, tailored solutions
• encourages constructive communication
• supports ongoing relationships, particularly where children are involved.

Agreements reached through mediation are often more durable because they have been shaped by the participants themselves, rather than imposed by a court.

A joined-up legal service

As a full service law firm, we are able to offer mediation as part of a wider family law service. Our family team will be able to assist you in coming to a decision about what process is right for you.

For more information about our work in this area, please visit our Family Law page or give us a call on 01243 786668.

Alice Leadbeatter | Solicitor/Mediator

Head of Family

01243 812435 alice.leadbeatter@georgeide.co.uk

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Client Testimonials

I can enthusiastically recommend Alice Leadbeatter/George Ide. I was extremely grateful for the clarity of her communications and for demystifying many of the processes. Alice was prompt in her replies and very professional – both of which were appreciated in navigating a difficult time.

Jennifer Hudson

Alice Leadbeatter

Dear Alice. The right sound legal support from yourself has made such a difference to me. Thank you Alice, I have always trusted your advice and couldn’t have asked for more from you.

Shari Miles

Alice Leadbeatter

Alice provided an exceptional service throughout the year and a half that I used her. She worked tirelessly on my behalf while I went through an extremely painful divorce and child separation issues. As well as her diligence and hard work, she demonstrated a compassion towards me, and a human side that showed that she truly cared about my situation. She has been exemplary in every way throughout the time that I have required her services. I recommend her to anyone, particularly anyone going through a painful legal process that requires an empathetic lawyer who treats you like a friend. She was also very good at explaining complex legal issues succinctly, which was incredibly helpful.

Sam Mellor

Alice Leadbeatter

Alice was reassuring, kind, easy to talk to, very clear in her advice and very efficient. What more does anyone need?

Julia Burchell

Alice Leadbeatter

Alice was amazing from start to finish, gave me accurate and sound advice. She always kept my expectations to a realistic level, and I would recommend her to anyone in a similar position to me, a credit to George Ide solicitors. I always felt I was dealing with a friend not just a solicitor.

Garry Sherrington

Alice Leadbeatter

Alice has always replied promptly to emails/telephone calls. She was extremely helpful and made the whole process go smoothly. I would definitely recommend her to anyone thinking of a divorce.

Nuala Field

Alice Leadbeatter

I would like to mention my solicitor, Alice Leadbeatter. I have received such great, professional service from her throughout my case. Alice has been so patient and shown enormous empathy towards my situation. I feel I get good, honest advice from her and I feel I definitely have made the right choice of solicitor.

Sharon Miles

Alice Leadbeatter

Dear Alice, thank you for your professionalism, kindness and guidance. It has been an emotional rollercoaster. We feel you have been a shining star in our lives. Alice, you are great asset to your chosen profession and to George Ide LLP. We are privileged to have had you on board.

Viv Menecier

Alice Leadbeatter

Contact Our Friendly Legal Experts Today

For general enquiries or to discuss more specific needs in personal or commercial law please get in touch with a friendly member of our team today.

Mediation FAQs

How long do family mediation sessions take?: The duration of mediation varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of parties to reach an agreement. Typically, most cases require 3-5 sessions, each lasting 1-2 hours, spread over several weeks or months.
Are mediation decisions binding?: Agreements reached during mediation are not automatically legally binding until they are approved by a court judge. If an agreement is reached during mediation, our family law team will be able to embody this into a consent order and send this to the Court for you to make the agreement binding.
What happens if family mediation doesn’t work?: If mediation doesn’t result in a complete agreement, you can still pursue other options, including court proceedings, collaborative law approaches, or arbitration. Any partial agreements reached during mediation can often be preserved.
How much does family mediation cost?: Mediation typically costs significantly less than court proceedings. Costs depend on the number of sessions required and the complexity of your case.
What can be discussed in family mediation?: Almost any issue related to family breakdown can be addressed in mediation, including custody and visitation arrangements for children, spousal and child support, division of assets, property matters, and communication and parenting plans.
What if my ex refuses mediation?: If your ex-partner refuses to engage in mediation, you may have to hire a solicitor to pursue legal action. However, it’s recommended to find an alternative, out-of-court solution to resolve disputes before exploring other options.
When should I get in touch with a mediation solicitor?: It’s advisable to consult mediation solicitors at the earliest stages of a dispute, ideally before positions become entrenched. Early intervention through our alternative dispute resolution solicitors can prevent escalation of conflict and lead to more amicable, cost-effective resolutions.

Our Offices

Chichester Office:
52 North Street,
Chichester,
West Sussex, PO19 1NQ 01243 786 668

Chichester Office:
61a North Street,
Chichester,
West Sussex, PO19 1NB 01243 786 668

By Appointment Only:
Parallel House,
32 London Road,
Guildford, Surrey, GU1 2AB 01483 617 615

Also at 44 North St, Chichester, PO19 1NF Contact Us

Contact Our Friendly Legal Experts Today

For general enquiries or to discuss more specific needs in personal or commercial law please get in touch with a friendly member of our team today.