International Family Mediator UK & France | Resolve Cross-Border Family Disputes
- sarah-jane tasteyre
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Supporting families between the UK, France and beyond
I am an international family mediator working with clients across England and Wales, France and internationally.
International family mediation helps resolve family disputes involving more than one country, in a confidential, structured and supportive environment. It allows you to build tailored solutions adapted to your cross-border situation, without the stress, cost and uncertainty of lengthy court proceedings.
I work with individuals and couples navigating separation in an international context, often involving the UK, France, or both.
Who is international family mediation for?
I regularly support situations such as:
Couples of different nationalities with connections to the UK and/or France
French nationals living in the UK
British nationals living in France
International couples communicating in English
Families living abroad or relocating between countries
Conflicts about children’s residence across borders
International parental conflict or child relocation issues
Any family situation involving more than one country
What is international family mediation?
International family mediation is a voluntary process where an independent mediator supports both parties in reaching an agreement.
Unlike court proceedings:
you remain in control of the decisions
solutions are tailored to your specific international situation
discussions remain confidential
As an international family mediator, I am trained to work across cultural, linguistic and legal differences, which often play a key role in cross-border disputes.
Mediation is particularly suitable for:
international divorce or separation
child arrangements across countries
financial discussions involving different jurisdictions
situations involving UK and French legal frameworks
Why choose international family mediation?
To avoid complex and lengthy legal proceedings
International family disputes are often legally complex. Questions such as which country has jurisdiction can quickly lead to stressful and costly legal battles. Different legal systems (UK / France) may lead to different outcomes, especially regarding finances and child arrangements.
Mediation helps avoid escalation, reduce conflict, and reach an agreement more efficiently.
Building solutions that work in real life
Every family is unique, especially across borders.
Mediation allows you to address practical issues such as:
children living between two countries
travel arrangements and holidays
financial contributions and travel costs
communication between parents
Each person is heard, which reduces misunderstandings and helps prevent conflict from escalating.
The aim is to create practical, sustainable and workable agreements.
Protecting your children
Children are particularly affected in international situations, where their environment, language and routines may change.
International family mediation helps:
maintain stability
preserve relationships with both parents
reduce loyalty conflicts
By reducing tension between parents, mediation ensures that children are not placed in the middle of the conflict.
They are protected from having to choose sides or carry emotional pressure.
This supports their emotional wellbeing and allows them to adapt more peacefully to the situation.
The child’s best interests remain central throughout the process.
Preserving the co-parenting relationship
Even after separation, you remain parents.
Mediation helps rebuild communication, reduce tension and establish a healthier co-parenting relationship.
Because in the long term, what matters is being able to continue to share important moments in your children’s lives.
MIAM – Mediation before going to court in England & Wales
If you are based in England or Wales, you will usually need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to the Family Court, unless an exemption applies.
I offer MIAM appointments, including for international family situations involving the UK and France.
My approach to international family mediation
My practice is designed to meet the realities of international families:
✔️ Online sessions (Zoom)
✔️ Flexible scheduling across time zones
✔️ Possibility of co-mediation across jurisdictions
✔️ Collaboration with lawyers when needed
Why work with me?
I have developed expertise in mediation and conflict resolution in international contexts.
Beyond this professional background, my personal experience shapes the way I work. I come from a multicultural family (Vietnamese father, British mother, raised in France), and I have lived internationally for over fifteen years.
I understand first-hand the challenges of navigating different cultures, languages and systems and how easily misunderstandings can arise.
I offer a safe, structured and confidential space where each person can be heard and understood.
My aim is to help you reduce conflict, restore dialogue and reach sustainable agreements that respect your situation, your values and your children.
Book a consultation
Are you facing a complex family situation involving more than one country?
👉 A first conversation can help you understand your options and next steps.
No obligation- just a confidential and supportive conversation.
📩 Book a discovery call or a MIAM

FAQ – International Family Mediation
Is mediation compulsory?
Mediation is not compulsory. However, in England and Wales, before making an application to the Family Court, you are usually required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), unless you qualify for an exemption.
A MIAM allows you to explore whether mediation could be suitable for your situation before starting court proceedings.
Is the agreement legally binding?
Yes, agreements can be formalised and recognised legally in the relevant jurisdiction(s).



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