Your questions: "What is arbitration and how can it help my family and I at Kent and Surrey Family Resolution, specialist family solicitors?"

At Kent and Surrey Family Resolution we offer an array of specialist support services to those looking to separate or divorce. We also aim to seek a quick and amicable arrangement to separating couples in the case of child living arrangements or family finances. These issues can be sensitive and emotionally charged: arbitration seeks to take surmount some of these difficulties and look to a brighter future for all the family.

Nigel is an accredited Arbitrator, registered with the IFLA (Institute of Family Law Arbitrators). He is a specialist Children’s and Family Law Solicitor acting in Kent, Surrey and London, across the South East. He has offices in Canterbury, Teddington and Tenterden.

Here at Kent and Surrey Family Resolution we recognise the inherent stress, cost, lack of privacy and time which may be involved in protracted court dispute. Whilst court is an option in some cases, it is not a on size fits all approach. There are other options available in dispute resolution and you most definitely have a choice in selecting which one fits you. Nigel has over thirty years experience in family law and is an accredited mediator and arbitrator. As such, he is well placed to be able help guide you to a dispute resolution approach which is tailored to and best meets your individual needs.

Th focus of our approach is on you as a unique individual.

How does arbitration fit in?

Arbitration is a forward-looking and innovative solution to family law disputes. It looks to resolve disputes privately, fairly and quickly.

It seeks to avoid unnecessary court involvement and stress and empowers clients to find an acceptable, fair and lasting solution which suits them.

Arbitration is often described as a dispute resolution which focuses on ‘stop settling scores and start settling issues!’ The focus is very much on a healthy and forward looking future; it does not seek to settle old scores, blame or seek revenge. Despite this, it is very much looking for a solution all clients agree on and can live with. It may involve a degree of ‘give and take’ or compromise but will respect all clients and hear their wishes and needs.

How does arbitration actually work?

You and your solicitor, in consultation with the arbitrator, are able to decide the form the arbitration takes. You may have hearings very like court hearings or deal with everything by telephone or by email and paper documents. The process is tailored to meet your specific needs. This can be different to going through the courts where there is a set procedure and the process takes no account of the value or complexity of the case.

Why should I consider arbitration?

• Speed – Arbitration is quicker than court. • Convenience - Meetings arranged to suit you. • Costs - Can be shared. • Confidentiality – Is guaranteed. • Binding – The arbitrator’s decision is final.

You can find out more by contacting Nigel at nigel@familyresolution.co.uk or else take a look at Nigel’s listing at the Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA) website: http://ifla.org.uk/arbitrator/nigel-clarke/

IFLA Website at http://ifla.org.uk