- (07) 3378 8500
- [email protected]
- 1/2059 Moggill Rd, Kenmore, QLD
- Ipswich by Appointment
Mediation gives separating couples a chance to sort out parenting and property arrangements together, with the help of a neutral mediator. It is usually faster, cheaper and less stressful than going to court. At Ipswich Family Lawyers, we help you prepare for mediation, advise you on your options, and turn what you agree into a legally binding outcome.
Our initial consultation gives you time to talk through your situation with a family lawyer and leave with clear, practical advice on your next steps. Call (07) 3378 8500 or send us a message to arrange a time.
In family law, mediation is often called family dispute resolution. A neutral mediator helps both people talk through the issues, understand each other’s position and work towards an agreement. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions for you.
Mediation can deal with parenting arrangements, property settlement, spousal maintenance and other issues. It can happen face to face, in separate rooms (known as shuttle mediation), by phone or online.
What is said in family dispute resolution is generally confidential and cannot be used as evidence in court.
Before applying to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for parenting orders, most parents must attempt family dispute resolution with a registered practitioner and obtain a certificate. For property matters, the court’s rules also expect you to make a genuine attempt to resolve the dispute before filing.
Mediation is not suitable for everyone. Where there has been family violence or there are safety concerns, a mediator may decide mediation should not go ahead, and exceptions to the certificate requirement may apply.
Having a lawyer on your side before and during mediation helps you understand your rights, know what a fair outcome looks like, and avoid agreeing to something you may regret.
Good preparation makes mediation far more likely to succeed. Here is how we can assist:
We are proud to support families across Ipswich, from Raceview and Redbank Plains to Springfield and Yamanto.
We understand that no two families are the same. Our team takes time to learn about your situation so we can give advice that fits your needs.
Here is what sets us apart:
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’re here to listen, understand your needs, and guide you toward a brighter future for you and your loved ones.
Each mediation is a little different, but most follow a similar path.
Talk to a family lawyer before mediation. We help you understand your legal position and what a fair outcome could look like, so you go in prepared.
The mediator meets with each person separately to understand the issues and check that mediation is safe and suitable.
Both people discuss the issues with the mediator’s help. Sessions can be held together, in separate rooms or online. The aim is to find solutions that work for everyone, especially any children.
If you reach agreement, it can be written up as a parenting plan, or made legally binding through consent orders or a binding financial agreement. If you do not agree, the mediator may issue a certificate so you can apply to court for parenting orders.
Focus on the future: Talk about the issues, not the past.
Know your priorities: Bring a list of what matters most to you and where you can be flexible.
Bring documents: For property matters, bring financial records.
Take your time: Ask for breaks when you need them, and get advice before you sign anything.
Mediation is often one step in a wider family law matter. We also help with:
For parenting matters, most people must attempt family dispute resolution before applying to court, unless an exception applies, such as family violence or urgency. For property matters, the court expects you to try to resolve the dispute before filing.
Not on its own. To make it legally binding, it needs to be turned into consent orders or, for financial matters, a binding financial agreement.
Tell the mediator and your lawyer. Mediation can be done in separate rooms or online, or it may not be suitable at all. If there has been family violence, you may not need a certificate before going to court.
Many mediations take half a day or a full day, though some issues need more than one session.
It is a certificate issued by a registered family dispute resolution practitioner. It shows whether mediation was attempted, and you usually need it to apply for parenting orders.
Mediation can save you time, money and stress, and it keeps the decisions in your hands. Our Ipswich family lawyers will help you prepare and make sure any agreement protects your interests.
Call Ipswich Family Lawyers today or send us a message to book your first consultation.
Our initial consultation gives you time to talk through your situation with a family lawyer and leave with clear, practical advice on your next steps. Call (07) 3378 8500 or send us a message to arrange a time.
