Mediation in EAST SUSSEX: BRIGHTON, EASTBOURNE, HASTINGS.

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For families across East Sussex—from the creative hub of Brightonto the coastal resorts of Eastbourne and Hastings, and the historic town of Lewes—Family Mediation offers a constructive, less adversarial route to resolving disputes that arise from separation or divorce.

Choosing mediation means prioritising communication, control, and the well-being of your children over the prolonged conflict and expense of a court battle.

Why Choose Mediation Over Court in East Sussex?

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a professionally accredited mediator (a neutral third party) helps separating partners negotiate and reach their own agreements on children, property, and financial matters.

1. Maximum Control Over Your Outcomes

• You Decide, Not a Judge: The Family Court system in East Sussex is currently under significant pressure, leading to long delays. When you go  to court, a judge—who knows nothing about your family—will make the final,      binding decisions. In mediation, you and your former partner retain full control over the outcomes, creating a solution that is  uniquely tailored to your family's needs.
• Flexible and Creative Solutions: Mediation allows for creative solutions that a  court may not have the power to order. This flexibility is  vital for complex financial arrangements or intricate parenting schedules      that must work within the East Sussex community (e.g., school runs, local activities).

2. Significant Savings in Time and Cost

• Faster Resolution: Court proceedings can take 12 to 18 months or even longer, keeping your family in a state of expensive limbo.6 Mediation      can often resolve all issues within a few weeks or months over two      to five sessions, allowing everyone to move forward sooner.
• Cost-Effective:     While solicitor fees in East Sussex can quickly escalate into thousands of      pounds, mediation is often the most cost-effective solution.8 You share the cost of a single mediator, rather than each paying for separate solicitors to conduct lengthy correspondence.

3. Prioritising Children's Welfare

• Reduced  Conflict: High conflict between parents is known to be damaging to      children's long-term welfare.Mediation actively works to      lower animosity, providing a safe, structured environment for constructive scussion.
• Better Co-Parenting: By working together to create a Parenting Plan through      mediation, parents are more likely to improve their long-term communication and establish a workable co-parenting relationship, which is   critical for children growing up across Brighton, Eastbourne, and the      surrounding areas.

Essential Information for East Sussex Residents

1. The Legal Requirement (MIAM)

Before applying to the Family Court for most child or financial orders in East Sussex, you must first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).14 This mandatory first step ensures you have considered mediation before escalating to court.

An accredited mediator in your area will conduct this meeting to:

• Explain the mediation process and its benefits.
• Assess whether mediation is suitable for your specific case.
• Check your eligibility for financial assistance (see below).
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2. Financial Support and Cost Savings

Mediation is already more affordable than litigation, but government initiatives offer further support:

Funding Option

Legal Aid -  

Coverage - Covers the entire cost of the MIAM and all mediation sessions for the financially eligible individual. 

Eligibility -  Based on your income, savings, and assets. 

Legal Aid Spousal Benefit

Coverage -  If one party qualifies for Legal Aid, the MIAM and first joint mediation session are free for the other party (the non-eligible party). 

Eligibility -   Automatic if your ex-partner is Legal Aid eligible. 

£500 Government Voucher Scheme                                                                                             

Coverage -  A financial contribution of up to £500 towards your joint mediation costs. 

Eligibility -   Typically applies to cases concerning arrangements for children. The mediator applies for this on your behalf. 

  Finding a Mediator in East Sussex

To ensure you are working with a high-quality professional, you should always select a mediator who is accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC).

A local FMC accredited mediator in your area—be it in Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes, or Uckfield—will be able to check your eligibility for all financial support and help you take the first step towards a calmer, more controlled resolution for your family.

Areas Covered

Brighton and Hove Bexhill Crawley Worthing Eastbourne Hastings Lewes Uckfield                                                    

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