SOLENT FAMILY MEDIATION BOGNOR
Mediation solutions for families in Bognor Regis. If you are going through divorce or separation speak to Solent Family Mediation to find out how peaceful solutions can help you find a way forward.
Mediation solutions for families in Bognor Regis. If you are going through divorce or separation speak to Solent Family Mediation to find out how peaceful solutions can help you find a way forward.
When separating in Bognor Regis, avoiding the Family Court system is often the preference due to costs, delays, and stress. Both Mediation and Arbitration offer private routes to resolution, but they function very differently. Choosing the right process depends entirely on how much control you want over the outcome. We share your options and explain how each process works so you can work out what path to take.
Mediation is a cooperative, voluntary process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps you and your ex-partner communicate, negotiate, and reach your own mutually agreed-upon solution. The mediator helps talks, they don’t make decisions or rulings.
Stay in Control; You retain control over the outcome. Your life, your family, your plans.
Not Legally Binding; The agreement reached in mediation (Memorandum of Understanding) is only a moral contract. It must be turned into a legally binding Consent Order by solicitors and approved by a court.
Cost and Speed; Mediation is the most cost-effective and quickest method around family disputes. Costs are shared, and the process typically only takes a few weeks or months.
Open Communication; Ideal for couples who can communicate reasonably well, even if they disagree, and who want to maintain a constructive co-parenting relationship.
Arbitration is a formal, private hearing where you and your ex-partner present arguments and evidence to a jointly appointed Arbitrator (who is usually a senior family law barrister or solicitor). The Arbitrator acts like a private judge.
Low Control; The Arbitrator makes the final, binding decision after hearing all the evidence. You control the process and the evidence presented, but not the outcome.
Legally Binding; The Arbitrator’s decision (the ‘Award’) is legally enforceable by the court, similar to a judge’s final court order.
More Expensive & Moderately Fast. Generally more expensive than mediation because you are paying a professional to make a final decision. However, it is significantly faster than waiting for a court date.
Arbitration is Ideal for couples who cannot agree in mediation but require a final, legally binding decision quickly and privately, or for complex financial issues where privacy is important.
For most Bognor Regis families, mediation is the required first step (via a MIAM). It should be your primary choice if you believe agreement is possible, as it is cheaper, faster, and keeps you in charge.
Arbitration becomes a highly effective option if mediation fails, but you still want to avoid the delays and public nature of the Family Court. It is the best route when you need a swift, enforceable decision on finance or property matters.your case is suitable for mediation, explains the process, and checks if you qualify for Legal Aid.
| Criterion | Family Mediation | Family Arbitration |
| Core Function | Negotiation & Facilitation | Adjudication & Decision |
| Outcome | Mutual Agreement | Binding Award (Decision) |
| Confidentiality | High (Discussions are private) | High (Private hearing) |
| Time Scale | Weeks/Months | Months (Faster than court) |
| Vulnerability | Requires equal power dynamics | Better for cases with high conflict/trust breakdown |
When comparing mediation and arbitration, mediation offers families in Bognor Regis a more cooperative, cost-effective, and child-focused way to resolve disputes. Unlike arbitration, where a third party makes the final decision. Mediation keeps control in your hands, helping you reach mutually agreed solutions that suit your family’s needs.
Solent Mediation Bognor provides a calm, confidential environment where trained mediators guide you toward practical arrangements without the stress or expense of formal legal proceedings. If you’re ready to explore a better way forward, complete our contact form today or call us directly on to book your initial appointment
We offer mediation hubs around the Solent Region.
Offering Civil and Family Mediation, Legal Aid Mediation.
Strictly by Appointment Only.
Location is not staffed.
Mediation and urgent MIAM appointments can be arranged online
Our Bognor Regis Hub – Find us at;
Westloats Lane, Bognor Regis PO21 5JZ
Call our team to book your mediation on 0238 161 1051