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Mediation and Your Family Law Dispute

Mediation and Your Family Law Dispute – Agreements that Suit Your Needs

WHAT IS MEDIATION?

Mediation is an alternative way to determine a family law dispute outside of the courts. The Mediator Standards Board defines mediation as: “a process in which the participants, with the support of the mediator, identify issues, develop options, consider alternatives and make decisions about future actions and outcomes.”

It is a process of problem-solving that is guided by an impartial third party called a mediator.

WHAT DOES A MEDIATOR DO?

In family law, the role of the mediator is to facilitate the process of dispute and conflict resolution while the content of the discussions rests with the parties. The mediator can assist the parties to clarify the most pertinent issues and consider ways to resolve these issues. A mediator will not, and cannot, give advice about your dispute or determine the dispute for you. [...]  READ MORE →

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5 Essential Skills of a Family Mediator

1. Active Listening

A good mediator will listen by fully concentrating, understanding and responding to what is being said by the parties.  Active listening may also involve the mediator clarifying the meaning of a message by asking further questions.

2. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise and manage your own emotions as well as responding to the emotions of others appropriately. Mediators are usually very skilled at relating to their clients.  They are good at understanding the needs and feelings of others to ensure their clients feel they are being heard. Moreover, mediators have excellent communication and conflict management skills to resolve disputes effectively. [...]  READ MORE →

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Family Law Lawyers and Mediation

For most of those dealing with their family law matter through the Court system, it becomes apparent very quickly that you might be in this for the long haul and it won’t be cheap. With a currently under resourced Family Court, the excessive delays no doubt add to the stress of separating couples who want nothing more than to be able to move on with their lives. So, what else can you do to try and take back control of your future? Well there are many alternatives but a cheaper and often underestimated option is Mediation. Family law lawyers are able to assess your particular situation and advise whether mediation is suitable in your circumstances. [...]  READ MORE →