Sydney Mediation

Our Sydney team at Mediations Australia bring vital elements to bear in conducting the mediation process to achieve successful resolutions which keep you out of court.

Our Sydney team at Mediations Australia are not only nationally accredited as Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners but also possess considerable expertise from practising in the area of family law, including in-depth knowledge of current legislation and case law.

Tell Us About Your Issue

Understanding Sydney Family Law Mediation

Family Law Mediation plays a crucial role in resolving disputes among family members in Australia. When conflicts arise, parties involved can opt for this form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to find an amicable solution without resorting to litigation. Understanding the basics of Family Law Mediation in Sydney is important for anyone going through a family law dispute.

Family Law Mediation is a process where a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps facilitate communication and negotiation between family members. This process aims to assist parties in reaching a mutually acceptable resolution, especially in matters related to divorce, child custody, and property settlements.

In Australia, Family Law Mediation is governed by the Family Law Act 1975. This act promotes the use of mediation as it emphasises the importance of maintaining strong family relationships and reducing the adversarial nature of litigation.

Family Law Mediation in Australia is a structured and confidential process that provides families with an alternative to going to court. It offers a safe and supportive environment where parties can openly express their concerns, needs, and interests. The mediator, who is trained in conflict resolution and family dynamics, helps facilitate communication and guides the parties towards finding common ground.

During the mediation process, the mediator remains impartial and does not take sides. Their role is to assist the parties in identifying issues, exploring options, and generating possible solutions. They help the parties focus on their interests rather than their positions, encouraging them to think creatively and work collaboratively towards a resolution that meets the needs of all family members involved.

Mediation sessions can be conducted face-to-face or through online platforms, depending on the preferences and circumstances of the parties. The duration of the mediation process varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of the parties to engage in constructive dialogue. It can range from a few hours to multiple sessions spread over several weeks.

One of the key benefits of Family Law Mediation in Sydney is its cost-effectiveness compared to litigation. Mediation generally involves lower legal fees, as it avoids the need for lengthy court proceedings and multiple court appearances. It also allows parties to have more control over the outcome, as they actively participate in the decision-making process.

Another advantage of Family Law Mediation is its focus on preserving family relationships. By encouraging open communication and collaboration, mediation helps parties maintain a level of respect and understanding, which is particularly important when children are involved. It promotes co-parenting and allows parents to work together in the best interests of their children, fostering a positive and supportive family environment.

It is important to note that Family Law Mediation is not suitable for all cases. In situations where there is a history of domestic violence, child abuse, or significant power imbalances between the parties, mediation may not be appropriate. In such cases, alternative dispute resolution methods or court intervention may be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

In conclusion, Family Law Mediation in Australia is a valuable tool for resolving family disputes in a cooperative and non-adversarial manner. It provides parties with an opportunity to address their concerns, find common ground, and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution. By promoting open communication and preserving family relationships, mediation helps families navigate the challenges of separation and divorce while prioritising the best interests of all family members.

What is Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

Before diving into the specifics of Family Law Mediation, it is crucial to understand the concept of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). ADR refers to any method of resolving disputes outside of traditional court processes. It includes processes such as mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and conciliation.

Alternative Dispute Resolution has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its numerous advantages over traditional litigation. One of the key benefits of ADR is its ability to provide parties with more control over the outcome of their dispute. Unlike court proceedings, where a judge or jury makes the final decision, ADR allows the parties involved to actively participate in the resolution process.

Mediation is one of the most commonly used forms of ADR. In mediation, a neutral third party, known as the mediator, facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties. The mediator does not make decisions but helps the parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. This process encourages open dialogue and promotes understanding between the parties, often leading to more satisfactory outcomes.

Arbitration, another form of ADR, involves the appointment of an impartial third party, known as the arbitrator, who acts as a private judge. The arbitrator listens to both sides of the dispute, examines evidence, and makes a binding decision. Unlike mediation, where the parties have control over the outcome, arbitration results in a final and enforceable decision.

Negotiation, on the other hand, is a direct communication between the parties involved in the dispute. It allows them to discuss their concerns, interests, and potential solutions without the involvement of a third party. Negotiation can be done informally or with the assistance of legal representatives, and it offers flexibility and the opportunity for creative problem-solving.

Conciliation is a process similar to mediation, where a third party, known as the conciliator, assists the parties in reaching a resolution. However, the conciliator plays a more active role in proposing solutions and suggesting compromises. Conciliation is often used in situations where there is a significant power imbalance between the parties or when emotions are running high.

Alternative Dispute Resolution methods are not only limited to family law disputes but can be applied to various areas, including commercial disputes, employment conflicts, and even international disputes. The flexibility and efficiency of ADR make it an attractive option for many individuals and organizations seeking a faster and less adversarial way to resolve their conflicts.

In conclusion, Alternative Dispute Resolution encompasses a range of processes that offer parties an alternative to traditional court litigation. Mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and conciliation are just a few examples of ADR methods that provide individuals and organisations with more control, flexibility, and efficiency in resolving their disputes.

What is Family Law Mediation in Sydney

Family Law Mediation is a specific type of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process designed to resolve family disputes. It seeks to provide a safe and structured environment for parties to openly discuss their concerns and find mutual agreement.

In Family Law Mediation, a neutral third party, known as a mediator, facilitates the conversation between the parties involved. The mediator is trained in conflict resolution and has expertise in family law matters. Their role is to guide the discussion, ensure that both parties have an opportunity to express their views, and help them explore potential solutions.

During the mediation process, the mediator helps the parties identify the underlying issues causing the conflict and assists them in generating options for resolution. This can include discussing child custody arrangements, visitation schedules, division of assets, and other important matters related to family law.

One of the key advantages of Family Law Mediation is that it allows the parties to have more control over the outcome of their dispute. Unlike traditional litigation, where a judge makes the final decision, mediation empowers the parties to actively participate in the decision-making process. This can lead to more satisfying and customized solutions that better meet the unique needs of the family.

Moreover, Family Law Mediation is often less adversarial and more cooperative compared to going to court. It promotes open communication and encourages the parties to work together to find common ground. This can be particularly beneficial for families with children, as it helps maintain a more amicable relationship between the parents, which in turn can positively impact the well-being of the children.

Confidentiality is another important aspect of Family Law Mediation. The discussions that take place during the mediation sessions are generally confidential, allowing the parties to freely express themselves without fear that their words will be used against them later in court. This can create a more relaxed and open atmosphere, fostering a greater likelihood of reaching a mutually agreeable resolution.

It is worth noting that Family Law Mediation is not suitable for every situation. In cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or extreme power imbalances, other dispute resolution methods may be more appropriate. However, for many families, mediation offers a cost-effective, efficient, and less adversarial alternative to litigation.

In conclusion, Family Law Mediation provides a structured and supportive process for families to resolve their disputes. By promoting open communication, empowering the parties, and fostering cooperation, mediation can help families find mutually agreeable solutions that prioritise the best interests of all involved.

Benefits of Family
Law Mediation in Sydney

If you wish to avoid the cost and overly adversarial nature of the court process, contact our Sydney mediation office for a preliminary consultation. This meeting will help work out whether mediation is suitable for your family dispute and, if so, what type of mediation will work best. If this method is determined as the best way forward, we will contact your ex-partner to discuss with them the benefits of trying to resolve the family dispute through mediation rather than the longer, more expensive and often more painful route of litigation.

If both you and your ex-partner agree mediation is the best path to a resolution between you, Mediations Australia will make the arrangements for the sessions to commence.

We will also prepare each of you before the mediation session takes place. There are many ways for a mediation to proceed, from facing each other across the table with one of our neutral third-party mediators conducting the session, to ‘shuttle’ mediation where each of you sits in a separate room and our mediator goes back and forward between them trying to assist both of you to reach an agreement. Whichever method works for both of you, the aim is to identify and air the important issues in dispute and help both of you work out a resolution. If an agreement can be reached, Mediations Australia will document the agreement and then get it validated by the relevant court so that it is legally binding on both parties.

Going through a divorce is undeniably challenging and emotionally draining. The thought of entering a courtroom and engaging in a potentially contentious legal battle can add even more stress to an already difficult situation. This is where family law mediation in Sydney can be incredibly beneficial for divorcing couples.

One of the key benefits of family law mediation is that it provides a more collaborative and constructive approach to resolving issues associated with divorce. Unlike the traditional court process, which can often be adversarial and result in a winner-takes-all mentality, mediation allows couples to work together to find solutions that work best for both parties and their unique circumstances.

Mediation also allows couples to maintain control over the decision-making process. Instead of having a judge make the final decisions, the couple has the opportunity to come up with their own solutions. This can lead to more tailored and personalized agreements that take into account the specific needs and desires of both parties. By having a say in the outcome, divorcing couples are more likely to feel satisfied with the results and have a greater sense of ownership over the decisions made.

Another significant benefit of family law mediation is its focus on preserving relationships. The adversarial nature of the court process often escalates conflicts and strains relationships further, making it even harder for couples to co-parent effectively, especially when children are involved. Mediation, on the other hand, aims to foster understanding, compromise, and cooperation between the couple. It provides a safe and supportive environment for open communication and can help improve the overall co-parenting dynamic.

Furthermore, family law mediation is generally a faster and more cost-effective process compared to going to court. Mediation sessions can be scheduled at the convenience of both parties, reducing the waiting time often associated with court hearings. Additionally, since mediation focuses on finding mutually agreeable solutions, it can often result in a quicker resolution than a lengthy court battle.

The Role of Our Sydney
Family Law Mediators

When going through a divorce, it can be overwhelming to navigate the legal process on your own. That’s where a family law mediator in Sydney can play a crucial role. A family law mediator is a neutral third party who facilitates communication and helps guide the couple through the mediation process.

The role of a family law mediator is to create a safe and supportive environment for both parties to express their views and concerns. They are trained in conflict resolution and family law, which allows them to effectively guide the conversation in a productive manner. They ensure that both parties have a chance to be heard and understood, while also keeping the discussion focused on finding mutually agreeable solutions.

During mediation sessions, the family law mediator will help the couple identify and discuss the various issues they need to address, such as property division, child custody, and financial arrangements. They will assist in clarifying the legal aspects of these matters and provide guidance on what would be considered fair and reasonable outcomes.

It’s important to note that a family law mediator is not there to make decisions or impose solutions. Their role is to facilitate the conversation and help the couple come up with their own agreements. This allows the couple to maintain control over the decision-making process, which can lead to more personalized and tailored outcomes that take into account their unique circumstances.

A skilled family law mediator in Sydney will also help manage emotions and communication during the mediation sessions. Divorce can be a highly emotional time, and the mediator can provide guidance on how to address these emotions constructively. They can help both parties effectively communicate their needs and concerns, fostering understanding and cooperation.

Overall, the role of a family law mediator in Sydney is to facilitate a collaborative and constructive process that allows divorcing couples to reach fair and reasonable agreements. By providing a supportive environment and guiding the conversation, they play a vital role in helping couples navigate the complexities of divorce and move forward with their lives.

What are the Different Models of Family Law Mediation?

In Family Law Mediation, there are different models that a mediator may adopt depending on the circumstances of the case. The two most common models are Facilitative Family Law Mediation and Evaluative Family Law Mediation.

Facilitative Family Law Mediation

This model focuses on the mediator facilitating communication between the parties. The mediator acts as a neutral guide, helping the parties explore their issues and interests. This type of mediation allows parties to develop their own solutions collaboratively.

During Facilitative Family Law Mediation, the mediator creates a safe and supportive environment where both parties can express their concerns and needs. The mediator encourages active listening and effective communication techniques, such as paraphrasing and summarizing, to ensure that each party feels heard and understood.

As the mediator guides the conversation, they may ask open-ended questions to encourage the parties to think critically about their positions and consider alternative perspectives. The mediator helps the parties identify common goals and interests, fostering a sense of cooperation and collaboration.

Throughout the mediation process, the facilitative mediator remains neutral and does not offer legal advice or opinions. Instead, their role is to facilitate the conversation and empower the parties to reach their own agreements. The mediator may help the parties generate options and explore potential solutions, but the final decisions are made by the parties themselves.

Evaluative Family Law Mediation

In this model, the mediator takes a more active role in evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each party’s perspective. The mediator may provide an impartial opinion, offer options, or even suggest potential outcomes based on legal principles.

Evaluative Family Law Mediation often involves a mediator with legal expertise who can assess the legal aspects of the case. The mediator may analyze the parties’ legal positions, review relevant laws and precedents, and provide an evaluation of the likely outcomes if the case were to go to court.

During Evaluative Family Law Mediation, the mediator helps the parties understand the legal implications of their positions and the potential consequences of different decisions. The mediator may challenge the parties’ assumptions and offer alternative perspectives to encourage a more realistic assessment of their options.

Unlike Facilitative Family Law Mediation, the evaluative model allows the mediator to provide more guidance and direction to the parties. The mediator may suggest compromises or propose creative solutions that align with legal principles and standards.

It is important to note that while the mediator in Evaluative Family Law Mediation offers evaluative opinions, the final decisions still rest with the parties. The mediator does not have the authority to impose a resolution but rather assists the parties in reaching a mutually agreeable outcome.

What is the Process of Family Law
Mediation

The Family Law Mediation process is a structured and collaborative approach to resolving disputes in family law cases. It offers a way for parties to work together with the help of a neutral third party, known as a mediator, to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

The process typically involves several stages:

Introductory stage: At the beginning of the mediation session, the mediator explains their role and establishes ground rules for the process. This stage is crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the mediation. The mediator ensures that everyone understands the purpose of mediation and encourages open communication.

Statement of issues: Each party has an opportunity to share their concerns, needs, and interests. This stage allows the parties to express their perspectives and emotions, creating a foundation for understanding each other’s positions. The mediator facilitates this discussion, ensuring that each party has a chance to be heard.

Information gathering: In order to make informed decisions, the mediator may ask questions and gather relevant information. This stage involves a thorough exploration of the facts and circumstances surrounding the dispute. The mediator may request documents or other evidence to help clarify the issues at hand.

Exploration of options: Once the relevant information has been gathered, the parties engage in a collaborative process of exploring different solutions and brainstorming possible agreements. The mediator encourages creative thinking and helps the parties generate a range of options. This stage is focused on finding common ground and identifying potential areas of compromise.

Negotiation: With a clearer understanding of the issues and potential solutions, the parties engage in negotiation. This stage involves a back-and-forth exchange of proposals and counter-proposals. The mediator facilitates the negotiation process, helping the parties communicate effectively and manage any conflicts that may arise. The goal is to reach a mutually acceptable agreement that addresses the needs and interests of both parties.

Agreement: If an agreement is reached, it is documented and signed by the parties. The mediator ensures that the agreement reflects the intentions and understanding of both parties. The agreement may cover various aspects of the family law case, such as child custody, visitation schedules, division of assets, and financial support. Once signed, the agreement becomes a legally binding contract.

The Family Law Mediation process is designed to empower the parties involved and give them control over the outcome of their case. It provides a confidential and non-adversarial environment where parties can work together to find solutions that meet their unique needs and circumstances. Mediation can be a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to litigation, allowing families to resolve their disputes in a more amicable and cooperative manner.

How Long Does Family Law
Mediation Take?

The duration of Family Law Mediation can vary depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of the parties to engage in the process. Some mediations can be resolved in a single session, while others may require multiple sessions over several weeks or months.

When it comes to Family Law Mediation, the length of time it takes to reach a resolution can be influenced by various factors. One of the primary factors is the complexity of the issues involved. In cases where the parties have relatively straightforward matters to discuss, such as child custody or visitation schedules, the mediation process may be completed in a shorter span of time.

However, if the issues at hand are more intricate and involve matters such as property division, spousal support, or complex financial arrangements, the mediation process may require multiple sessions. These sessions can span over several weeks or even months, as the parties work towards finding mutually agreeable solutions.

Another crucial factor that affects the duration of Family Law Mediation is the willingness of the parties to actively engage in the process. If both parties come to the table with a genuine desire to resolve their disputes amicably and are open to compromise, the mediation process can progress more efficiently. On the other hand, if there is resistance or a lack of cooperation from one or both parties, it may prolong the mediation process.

It is important to note that the length of Family Law Mediation is not necessarily an indication of its effectiveness. While some cases may be resolved quickly, others may require more time and effort to reach a satisfactory outcome. The ultimate goal of mediation is to provide a platform for open communication and negotiation, allowing the parties to have a say in the outcome of their case.

During the mediation process, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions between the parties, helping them explore various options and find common ground. The mediator’s role is to guide the conversation, ensure that each party’s concerns are heard, and assist in generating creative solutions that meet the needs of all involved.

In conclusion, the duration of Family Law Mediation can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of the parties to engage in the process. Whether it is resolved in a single session or takes several weeks or months, the goal remains the same: to provide a platform for constructive dialogue and empower the parties to reach a mutually beneficial resolution.

Where is the Family Law
Mediation Held?

Family Law Mediation can take place in various settings, including dedicated mediation centers, law firms, community centers, or even online platforms. The choice of venue depends on the preferences and convenience of the parties involved.

One popular option for Family Law Mediation is dedicated mediation centers. These centers are specifically designed to provide a neutral and comfortable environment for parties to engage in mediation. They often have private meeting rooms equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as comfortable seating, whiteboards, and audiovisual equipment. The serene and professional atmosphere of these centers helps create a conducive environment for productive discussions and negotiations.

Law firms are another common location for Family Law Mediation. Many law firms have designated spaces within their offices where mediation sessions can be conducted. These spaces are typically designed to ensure privacy and confidentiality, with soundproof walls and separate entrances. Having mediation sessions within a law firm can be advantageous as it allows parties to have access to legal advice and expertise during the process.

Community centers also offer a suitable venue for Family Law Mediation. These centers are often located in easily accessible areas and provide a neutral ground for parties to meet. Community centers are known for their welcoming and inclusive environments, which can help foster open communication and understanding between the parties involved. Additionally, these centers may offer additional resources and support services, such as childcare facilities or counseling services, which can be beneficial for families going through mediation.

In recent years, online platforms have emerged as a convenient option for Family Law Mediation. With advancements in technology, parties can now engage in mediation sessions remotely, using video conferencing tools and secure online platforms. Online mediation offers flexibility and convenience, as parties can participate from the comfort of their own homes or offices. It also eliminates the need for travel and can be particularly beneficial in cases where parties are located in different geographical locations.

Ultimately, the choice of venue for Family Law Mediation depends on the specific circumstances and preferences of the parties involved. Whether it’s a dedicated mediation center, a law firm, a community center, or an online platform, the most important aspect is to create an environment that promotes open communication, collaboration, and the resolution of family law matters in a fair and amicable manner.

Is the Outcome of Family Law Mediation Binding?

No, the outcome of Family Law Mediation is not legally binding. However, if parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement, they can formalize it by creating a legal document called a parenting plan or a consent order. These can later be made legally enforceable.

What happens if Family Law Mediation doesn’t result in any agreement?

If the Family Law Mediation process does not result in any agreement, the parties can explore other options, such as entering into further negotiations, seeking legal advice, or proceeding with litigation. The inability to reach an agreement through mediation does not necessarily mean that court proceedings are inevitable.

How to Prepare
for a Family Law
Mediation

Preparing for a family law mediation session can help ensure that the process goes smoothly and that you are able to effectively communicate your needs and concerns. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for your family law mediation session:

1. Understand the Process: Familiarize yourself with how family law mediation works. Research the role of the mediator, the topics that will be discussed, and the general timeline of the session. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety or uncertainty you may have.

2. Gather Relevant Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents related to your divorce, such as financial statements, property deeds, and any relevant agreements or court orders. These documents will help provide a clear picture of your assets and liabilities, and will assist the mediator in facilitating the discussions.

3. Reflect on Your Priorities: Take some time to reflect on what is most important to you in the divorce settlement. Consider your long-term goals, your financial situation, and your children’s needs. Having a clear understanding of your priorities will help guide your decision-making during the mediation process.

4. Prepare a List of Topics to Discuss: Make a list of all the issues you would like to address during the mediation session. This may include child custody, visitation schedules, property division, spousal support, and any other relevant concerns. Having a list will help you stay focused during the session and ensure that all important matters are addressed.

5. Practice Effective Communication: It’s important to communicate your needs and concerns clearly and effectively during the mediation session. Practice expressing yourself in a calm and respectful manner, and consider how you can best communicate with your former spouse. Remember to actively listen and try to understand their perspective as well.

6. Manage Your Emotions: Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging, and it’s normal to experience a range of emotions during the mediation session. Take some time to develop strategies for managing your emotions, such as deep breathing exercises or taking breaks when needed. This will help you stay focused and make rational decisions during the session.

7. Consider Seeking Legal Advice: While mediation is a collaborative process, it’s still beneficial to have legal advice throughout the proceedings. Consider consulting with an experienced family lawyer who can provide guidance on your rights and help ensure that any agreements reached are fair and legally sound.

By following these steps, you can be better prepared for your family law mediation session and increase the likelihood of reaching a fair and satisfactory outcome.

If you live in Sydney and have a family law-related matter, Mediations Australia can help you. Whatever the nature of your dispute, our experienced mediation team are on hand to help you resolve the issue without resorting to the court process.

Family Law Disputes

The accredited mediators in our Sydney mediation service can help you find a way through all issues pertaining to your family law dispute.

Section 601 Certificates

Before you’re able to make an Application for Parenting Orders to the court, the Family Law Act requires separating couples to have a Section 601 certificate showing that they’ve made a genuine effort to resolve their dispute through Family Dispute Resolution. Our Sydney mediation team can issue this certificate as part of the mediation process.

Parenting Plans

Mediations Australia will help you where you need to negotiate a parenting arrangement with your ex-partner. This process includes coming up with a mutually satisfactory agreement that is also legally binding.

De Facto Relationship Disputes

In most cases de facto relationships are very similar to marriages in the eyes of the law. If you and your ex-partner were in a dependent relationship for two years or more and have now decided to separate, Mediations Australia can help you disentangle the relationship via the mediation process.

Financial Agreements

Sorting out division of joint assets and liabilities in a relationship breakdown can be one of the most difficult things to do. Our Family Mediation experts in Sydney can conduct a calm and orderly process in order to reach a financial agreement which is just and equitable for both you and your ex-partner.

Property Settlements

Coming to an agreement on property when a relationship ends is often contentious, given it’s often a person’s most significant possession. Our Sydney mediators will work through all the difficult issues with you and your ex-partner in order to reach a legally binding agreement that satisfies both parties.

Sydney
Mediations
FAQs

What is the definition of parental mediation?

A parental mediation is enlisting the help of a neutral third party who is qualified and experienced in assisting separated parents in reaching agreements where they have previously been unable to.

A Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) registered with the Attorney General’s Office is necessary to facilitate the discussion. Only these mediators can issue a Section 60I Certificate, which authorises parents to go to court if they can’t reach an agreement. S60Is are granted after mediation, and you can ask your mediator for a certificate. The certificates have a 12-month validity period.

Do you have any experience with Child Inclusive Mediation?

Yes. Child Inclusive Mediation is a method that allows your child’s or children’s voice to be heard without having to go to court. If you choose to participate in Child Inclusive Mediation, you and your family will be able to work with a professional in this field to design an agreement that is most suited to your needs.

Do I need a lawyer if I have a property dispute?

When it comes to both parenting and property issues, we urge that you get legal assistance to help you understand your legal rights. At Mediations Australia, we have family lawyers who can help.

Parenting and property mediations provide you a place to start when it comes to making agreements. If you can achieve an agreement without the use of lawyers or the courts, you can file the required paperwork to formalise your agreement.

Is it possible for me to do both property and parenting mediation at the same time?

It is better not to, yet it may be necessary at times. We try to avoid combining parenting and property issues. Different portions of family law legislation control the two, and they are tested against different benchmarks.

Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners do not need to be registered or qualified as property mediators (FDRP). Property mediators are not required to meet any formal accreditation standards. However, we do urge that your mediator has a basic level of accreditation. If you’re unsure, simply ask them.

When should I think about hiring a parenting mediator?

When parents cannot agree on key issues affecting a child’s short and long-term future, parental mediation is recommended.

You may not be able to make decisions about things like time spent with each parent, where the child lives, what child-care or school the child attends, and their educational well-being (i.e. homework), what extra-curricular activities the child participates in, third parties involved with the child (i.e. babysitters, extended family, new partners), the child’s financial care, and the child’s health and well-being (nutrition, doctor and specialist appointments).

Is mediation preferable to going to court?

We believe that mediation is a quick and inexpensive option for a couple to reach an agreement over their children and property. We’re not alone, the Family Court of Australia makes mediation mandatory because it simply works.

Court is always an option, but it’s usually reserved for very high-conflict parents or parents dealing with violence, drug/alcohol abuse, or other difficulties that necessitate a more formal framework to manage issues of child safety.

Going to court can be a lengthy procedure, taking up to two years. Evidence also reveals that parents who participate in the court system or arbitration will further harm their relationship.

What accounts for the wide range of mediator fees?

The cost of a mediator can range from free (in some Family Relationship Centres – FRCs) to $5,000 per day or more. The cost of a mediator is determined by their abilities, experience, and certifications, as well as the intricacy of your situation.

Most mediators have a set mediation rate and/or an hourly rate with a minimum number of hours. Pre-mediation (Intake) sessions with each party, the mediation, the preparation of a mediation agreement, and the S60I certificate are all elements of a standard two-person mediation.

Most mediators will be able to provide you with a quote for a certain number of hours to cover these areas of your mediation. At Mediations Australia, the average cost of mediation is very economical. Remember that your alternative is litigation which can cost upwards of $100,000.

What Happens During a Family Mediation Session?

The following steps will often be included in the family mediation process.

Preparation

Your mediator can meet with you before the mediation begins to explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. This phase does not have to be completed in person; it can be completed over the phone.

Introduction

The first thing a mediator will do on the day of your mediation is make an opening statement. This statement outlines the mediator’s and participants’ roles, as well as the mediation procedure and any ground rules. Both parties should consent to this process, according to the mediator.

The Problem is Stated

In their own opening remark, the mediator allows each side to summarise their viewpoint and what they believe the problem is. Both the mediator and the parties concerned should have a greater knowledge of the concerns by the completion of these comments.

Joint Deliberation

The mediator will use open-ended questions to elicit any more information about the concerns mentioned by either party. The mediator will be able to determine which concerns may be resolved first through this joint dialogue.

Private Consultation

Both parties are then given the opportunity to speak with the mediator or their lawyers/support person about their feelings and perspectives. This private conversation is also a great way to get ready for negotiations.

Negotiation

It’s time to start negotiating. The mediator will assist both parties in identifying and investigating their possibilities for reaching an agreement.

Agreement

The mediator will put the parties’ agreement in writing if they reach an agreement.

Court Orders

Once an agreement is reached, our family lawyers will work with our mediators to draft the agreement to become legally-binding.

What is family law mediation?

Family law mediation is a process that allows divorcing couples to work together, with the help of a neutral third party called a mediator, to resolve their issues in a more collaborative and constructive manner. It provides an opportunity for open and honest discussions about concerns such as property division, child custody, and financial arrangements.

How does family law mediation work?

During family law mediation, the mediator facilitates communication between the couple and helps them identify and discuss the various issues they need to address. The mediator is trained in conflict resolution and family law, and their role is to ensure that both parties have a chance to express their views and concerns while keeping the conversation focused and productive.

What are the benefits of family law mediation?

Family law mediation offers several benefits for divorcing couples. It provides a more collaborative and constructive approach to resolving issues associated with divorce, allowing couples to work together to find solutions that work best for both parties. It also allows couples to maintain control over the decision-making process and can help preserve relationships, particularly when children are involved. Additionally, family law mediation is generally faster and more cost-effective than going to court.

How do I prepare for a family law mediation session?

To prepare for a family law mediation session, it’s important to understand the process, gather relevant documents, reflect on your priorities, prepare a list of topics to discuss, practice effective communication, manage your emotions, and consider seeking legal advice.

What role does a family law mediator play?

A family law mediator in Sydney plays a crucial role in facilitating communication and guiding the couple through the mediation process. They create a safe and supportive environment for both parties to express their views and concerns, help manage emotions and communication, and assist in clarifying the legal aspects of the issues being discussed.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about family law mediation in Sydney. By understanding the process, benefits, and the role of a mediator, as well as properly preparing for your mediation session, you can navigate your divorce in a more constructive and collaborative manner.

Get Help from Mediations Australia

Get Help Now

Sydney Mediations Resources