Tag: mediation

Mediation

Advantages of mediation over litigation for separated couples: navigating divorce smoothly

Going through a separation is undeniably challenging. When there are decisions to make about children, finances, and assets, finding the best solution can feel overwhelming. Increasingly, people who are divorcing are discovering the advantages of mediation over litigation for separated couples, offering a harmonious, cost-effective, and personalised approach. Mediation in the divorce landscape Mediation involves a neutral third party, the mediator, who facilitates communication between both parties to reach a shared agreement. This process is about collaboration, with the mediator ensuring discussions remain on track, without imposing decisions. Whether decisions concern weekend visits with children or property division, mediation is […]

White people holding hands
Mediation

Bringing a support person to mediation

If you’re participating in mediation you might want to bring a family member or friend to support you through the mediation. When can I bring a support person to my mediation? You can bring a support person to the mediation if everyone involved in the conference process agrees – including the other person involved in your matter and the mediator. Who is an appropriate support person at mediation This might be your current partner, a sibling or parent.  If your proposed support person has a difficult relationship with the other party attending mediation, think about whether it will be helpful […]

Disclosure in family law matters
Mediation

Why is disclosure important in family law mediation?

Full and frank disclosure is crucial in family law matters, including mediation. Disclosure ensures all parties have access to accurate and complete information about each other’s finances. This information is crucial to make informed decisions about the division of assets, property, and financial support.  It’s also a legal requirement. If disclosure is not provided, what’s the risk? Consider the story of Mary and John…. Mary and John were a couple who had decided to separate. They had two children and had been married for 20 years. They both agreed that they wanted to avoid the stress and expense of going […]

what do I need to do to prepare for mediation
Mediation

What do I need to do to prepare for mediation?

Mediation is a process that can help couples who are separating or divorcing to reach an agreement about the issues arising from their separation.  Those issues may include property division, parenting arrangements, child support, and spousal maintenance. Mediation is a less formal process than going to court and can often be quicker, cheaper, and less stressful for both parties. If you are thinking about mediation, it’s important to be prepared to make the most of this process. So, what do I need to do to prepare for mediation? Here’s a few tips: How to prepare for mediation To make informed […]

social worker and mediator in mediation
Child inclusive mediation, Mediation

What is the benefit of having a social worker in mediation?

In mediation, a social worker and a mediator can work together to help you reach a mutually satisfactory agreement regarding the care of your children or your finances. Here are some of the benefits of having a social worker in mediation, alongside the mediator: The biggest benefit of having a social worker in mediation? Their skills One of the most important benefits of having a social worker in mediation is that they can provide information and resources to help you make informed decisions about your children’s well-being. A social worker can assess your family’s needs and offer support and guidance […]

online and video mediation
Mediation

Online and video mediation

You may be trying to reach an agreement in a family law matter, and wondering about the options available for resolving the issue. One option that has become increasingly popular in recent times is online and video mediation. Online and video mediation allows parties to participate in mediation remotely, using technology such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to resolve disputes, as it eliminates the need for in-person meetings and travel.  Many people have become more familiar with online video technology during the global pandemic when many parents were working from home, and […]

Mediation
Mediation

The Top 4 benefits of Family Mediation

Family Mediation can help families resolve disputes through the assistance of a neutral third party, known as a family mediator. Your mediator helps you reach a mutually acceptable resolution. This process is often used in family law cases because it is usually a more cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to traditional litigation. Additionally, mediation can be a less adversarial and less stressful way to resolve disputes, which can be especially important in the emotionally charged context of family law cases. In this blog post, we explore the Top 4 benefits of family mediation 1. Family Mediation is cost-effective One of the […]

child inclusive family mediation benefits children
Child inclusive mediation, Mediation

Child-inclusive family mediation: the benefits for children

Child-inclusive family mediation is a form of parenting mediation or family dispute resolution that involves children in the conflict resolution process. This can be especially useful in family law cases where children’s well-being and best interests are a primary concern. What benefits does child-inclusive mediation offer for children? Expressing thoughts and feelings Children are often affected by their parents’ conflicts and may have thoughts and feelings about the situation. Child-inclusive family mediation allows children to have a voice in the resolution process and can help them feel heard and understood, whilst also explaining to them that they do not have […]

Do mothers have more rights than fathers in australian family law
Child inclusive mediation, Parenting

Do Mothers have more rights than Fathers in Australia?

Sometimes fathers feel like mothers have more rights than fathers in Australia’s family law system.  But the truth is, unlike some other countries, there is no gender bias in the Family Law Act.  The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia are required to make orders that are in the best interests of children, regardless of the parent’s gender or sexual orientation. What rights do fathers have in Australian family law? Fathers don’t have rights in Australian family law. But nor do mothers.  Yes, you read that right!   The way our family law system is structured, it is children who […]