The breakdown of a marriage or relationship is one of life’s most stressful events. Where there are children involved the emotional trauma can be greatly intensified and conflict often arises.
Mediation is a form of dispute resolution designed to assist parties in resolving their dispute without the need to commence (or continue) litigation. In most cases, it is a sensible place to start.
A family law mediation involves each party sitting down with an independent mediator to discuss the issues in dispute and attempt to reach agreement. The mediator will, ideally, be someone with a family law or relationship counselling background.
What issues can we discuss at mediation?
Mediations can cover any aspect of your family law dispute and allows the parties the opportunity to discuss issues in greater detail than they would otherwise be able to do in court proceedings. You can use mediation to deal with matters related to:
- Parenting arrangements;
- Property settlement;
- Spouse maintenance;
- Child support.
Do I need a lawyer with me at mediation
It is not mandatory to be legally represented at mediation, however it is important to understand that a mediator will not (and cannot) provide you with legal advice.
We recommend that you seek legal advice prior to attending mediation to discuss your options and whether you would be assisted by having a lawyer attend mediation with you. It is important that you have a good understanding of the issues in dispute, and the mediation process prior to participating in a mediation. You should also have a proper understanding of what your options are if you cannot resolve your dispute at mediation and the likely costs you will incur going to court.
Mediation Services
Amelia Trotman is an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner registered with the Attorney-General’s Department (Cth) and is able to issue section 60I certificates in parenting matters.
As an accredited family law specialist with more than 17 years’ experience in family law, Amelia is able to conduct mediations for all aspects of family law matters including parenting disputes and property/financial disputes.
We offer competitive rates for half day and full day mediations and conduct mediations across South East Queensland including on the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Toowoomba regions.
If you would like to engage Amelia to conduct your mediation, please contact us.
