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International Family Mediator UK & France | Resolve Cross-Border Family Disputes

  • Writer: sarah-jane tasteyre
    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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