This is a form of mediation that helps people affected by separation, divorce or parenting issues to sort out their dispute in a safe and supportive environment, either with a view to avoiding going to Court, or on referral from a Court as a pre-hearing process. We can help you and your partner resolve differences, sort out property settlements and make arrangements for children.
The mediator will work with you and your former partner to:
- Identify and clarify the issues in dispute
- Improve communication and build understanding
- Explore options that are workable
- ‘Reality check’ to identify which options are most realistic
- Reach agreements that include specific actions and behaviours for the future
- For parents, help you to agree on arrangements that are going to be in the best interests of your children
Mediation may be helpful for parties who have recently separated and who are looking to sort out some basic ground rules, while settling larger issues may take more time. Equally, for parties who have been separated some time, we can help resolve outstanding issues so you can move forward with life.
Note, we do not offer Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) services – while we can gladly assist you with mediating family matters, this will not meet the requirements for section 60i of the Family Law Act 1975; we can refer you to an FDR Practitioner as required.
Generally speaking, parties seeking orders from the Family Courts will require a s.60i certificate before filing can be accepted. Please seek your own legal advice on what’s required here.
If you reach an agreement, I can help you document that agreement – however if you want to apply to the Family Courts for consent orders, you can do this by yourselves, but I would encourage you to seek legal advice about the process.