Family Dispute Resolution

What is Family Dispute Resolution (mediation)?

Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a voluntary, confidential process where, a trained and accredited practitioner, facilitates discussion between the disputing individuals, with the aim of gaining mutual understanding of each others points of view. This enables individuals to work together to reach a mutually beneficial resolution about the issues in dispute with the assistance of a neutral third party (the practitioner).  The practitioner does not make decisions for you, you decide together.

How does Family Dispute Resolution work?

Individual 1 hour confidential appointments are arranged.  

It is important that you feel comfortable with the practitioner and for the practitioner to know if it is possible to work with you as well, therefore a free initial appointment is arranged.  After all individuals have been interviewed, a mutual decision is made about whether dispute resolution will be conducted.  If dispute resolution takes place, joint sessions will be arranged.  In some instances sessions can be done via telephone or in separate rooms. The joint session is where:

• You each have your say
• Key issues and concerns are identified
• Options developed and negotiated to mutual agreement.

Why use Family Dispute Resolution?

FDR provides a safe, confidential and informal environment to talk to each other, resulting in disputants being more committed to the outcome, because they take part in the decision making. The FDR practitioner does not make decisions for the people in dispute.  The FDR practitioner will ensure any agreements reached are typed up and accurately reflect the agreement.  For parenting plans the Practitioner will ensure it contains the necessary elements under the Family Law Guidelines for FDR.

Family Dispute Resolution avoids:

• Lengthy court battles
• Bitter ongoing conflict
• Expensive legal fees - FDR costs a fraction of going to court (costs)
  
• If you don't reach agreement then there has been the opportunity to clarify the issues and understand each others point of view.