In addition to family dispute resolution (FDR), there are a variety of alternate ways that arrangements for parenting matters can be made with family law lawyers and without the court’s involvement in the decision making.
Lawyer Negotiation
Where parties are unable to or unwilling to negotiate with one another, negotiation can take place between their family law lawyers. This form of dispute resolution usually commences with an exchange of client instructions outlining each party’s view and an offer. A more formal version of lawyer negotiation that often occurs after a correspondence exchange is a ‘four-way conference’. This is where both parties and their respective lawyers meet and attempt to reach a resolution. If agreement is reached, it can therefore be formally documented with the assistance of the family law lawyers through an application for consent orders or a parenting plan.
Parenting Plans
A parenting plan is an agreement made after separation concerning how children will be cared for. Parenting plans allow parties to benefit from making their own decisions about what best suits everyone. Most of all, this approach is often more beneficial for children as it avoids some of the conflict associated with going to court. However, in some situations where parties have significant difficulty communicating and co-operating to make a workable plan, Court involvement may be the only option.
Consent Orders
Consent orders occur in two main ways. The first involves parties making an agreement with the assistance of their family law lawyers through negotiation, FDR or discussions. This agreement is then subsequently endorsed by the court. The second avenue is where parties after the commencement of court proceedings make an agreement. This is often the way in which court proceedings are settled.
Click here for more information on Parenting and Custody Disputes.
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Disclaimer
Family law situations can be complex and sometimes they can involve serious issues. Information outlined is proposed to provide general guidance only. Due to the seriousness of legal matters as well as the uniqueness of your individual situation, professional advice should be sought. For advice, please contact one of our Family Lawyers.
