Mediation Services
Developing parenting plans.
These are written agreements between parents which cover the practical issues of co-parenting, including day-to-day care arrangements, change over locations, schooling and extra-curricular activities, time with extended family, special days and holidays, adapting to changing needs of the children as they grow, and strategies to resolve unexpected problems when they arise.
Property and financial settlement.
While separating couples are strongly advised to get independent legal advice regarding property settlement, mediation can help avoid a costly, acrimonious and drawn out battle. Assets, contributions and future needs are explored, enabling ex-partners to determine for themselves what is just and equitable.
Child-inclusive practice.
Designed to bring the child’s voice into the mediation process without placing them in the middle of the conflict. A trained child consultant talks independently with each child in a safe, supportive environment to gain a better understanding of their needs. The child consultant then provides feedback to both parents during mediation.
Issuing Section 6OI Certificates.
Under the Family Law Act, separating couples are required to make a genuine attempt to resolve their dispute at mediation before going to court. As a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Sue is authorised to issue the relevant Section 60I certificate if parties are unable to resolve their issues and want the court to decide.
Mediations can also help to resolve conflict and communication breakdown between parents and teenagers, grandparents, older relatives, neighbours and work colleagues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Family Dispute Resolution?
A type of mediation by a specially-accredited practitioner who has knowledge about the Family Law Act 1975, parental responsibility and children’s rights, domestic and family violence, relationship power dynamics, and the impact of conflict on children.
How will the process of mediation start?
Each party attends an appointment with the mediator, in person or by phone, for about an hour. This preliminary conference allows the mediator to explain the process, obtain a history of the relationship, and assess whether the matter is suitable for mediation. If mediation is appropriate, both parties will be required to sign an agreement to proceed, and to meet their share of the fixed fee a week prior to mediation.
How long will it take?
The mediation session can take up to 4 hours depending on the issues. The mediator opens the proceedings and invites each party to make an initial statement, defining their needs and concerns. The mediator sets an agenda. Issues are explored and parties are encouraged to generate options. Before final negotiations, a private session is held with each party to further clarify needs, assess progress and identify gaps. If agreement is reached, a formal agreement is written up and signed by both parties.
What are the different types of mediation offered?
face-to-face, online or phone mediation is available
joint mediation where the parties are together in the same room with the mediator
shuttle mediation, where the parties are in separate rooms, and the mediator moves between rooms
child informed mediation where the children speak independently to a child consultant who relays the children’s views to the parents during mediation, bringing their voice into the room
legally-assisted mediation where the clients’ lawyers attend the mediation and are on hand to provide advice to their clients
co-mediations, where two mediators facilitate proceedings, often a male and female
multi-party mediations, involving more than two parties, for instance, a grandparent or new partner as well as parents
How much does it cost?
The cost of mediation is a fraction of the legal fees charged in the Family Law system when getting a divorce. Contact me for a personal quote at contact@suejaves.com