Reaching an agreement without going to court

Dispute Resolution

Contrary to common belief, most family law matters settle amicably and without the need to go to Court.

If you separate there are many options to help you reach an amicable agreement with your former partner.

Dispute resolution is one option. Dispute resolution is a great first step to try to reach agreement or to narrow the issues in dispute. In parenting matters, dispute resolution is mandatory before any Court application can be filed (save for in some instances such as where there is family violence).

Dispute resolution provides you with an opportunity to improve your relationship with the other party/ies and reach an agreement without the need for litigation. This allows you to make your own decision and retain control of the outcome. Because all parties are involved in reaching a resolution, it improves the chances that the agreement will last into the future and can cover all of the issues important to you. You may also learn more effective ways to communicate with the other party/ies which may assist you to resolve future disputes.

Dispute resolution is a more affordable, timely, and less stressful means of resolving disputes.

If an agreement is reached, you and the other party/ies can formalise your agreement by entering into a parenting plan or filing consent orders with the Court.

Please contact the office for details of free dispute resolution services in your state or territory.