Central Coast Hypnotherapy
and Counselling Centre
Family Dispute Resolution Mediation
Family Mediation is used to resolve living arrangements
for children after the Parents have decided to separate.
Parenting Plans are drawn up so all parties have clear
directives and information on where and when the children reside, who
they spend time with, education issues, health issues, etc.
These Plans are done by consent of both parties. They are
organised within an environment that is non-threatening, friendly and
understanding. No sides are taken; both parties are given ample
opportunity to voice their desires and concerns. Mediation reduces conflict that often escalates due to Court.
The Mediation is usually undertaken over a 2 hour period,
where both parties agree on arrangements. The Parenting Plans are drawn up
by the Mediator, then emailed or posted to both parties. When both
parties agree with arrangements, they sign the papers and exchange
agreements.
If either Parent wishes to file the Parenting Plans in the Family
Court they can do so, this makes them a court enforced document.
The Family Court of Australia has ruled that Parenting Plans MUST be Mediated, they are not to be heard in a Court unless there
are Violence or Abuse issues connected with the matter.
Family Relationship Centres can attend to these Plans however there is usually a 3 – 4 month wait, 3 separate interview
sessions required and a fee payable.
With this private and professional Mediation, a 2 hour session
resolves most issues. Matters can usually be heard and dealt with
quickly so parents can both continue to spend time with their children
after separation. This enables parents to move forward in their lives
without the concern of when they may see their children.
Appointments can usually be made within a 1 week timeframe.
Appointment times are flexible with after hours available plus weekends
if necessary.
Both parties are asked to bring with them to the Mediation
meeting, their ‘wish’ list. This enables the Mediator to determine
agreement areas to fast track Mediation and concentrate on those areas where
Parents may not yet agree.
The Mediation follows Family Law Legislation to ensure both
parties and the children receive fair
and equitable Parenting Plans.
Basic property orders can also be attended to, usually
within the same meeting, this can include division or property,
furniture, vehicles and superannuation.
If Mediation is unable to progress or either party fails to mediate
matters, then the Mediator can issue a form 60I so the matter may
proceed to the Family Court where a magistrate will rule on
arrangements.
Cost is based on income with prices ranging between $500 and $700 per
couple ( ie $250 - $350 each party). This includes a 2 hour
Mediation meeting between the parties and Mediator, the written
parenting plans which can then be filed in the Family Court to become Consent Orders.
Please contact Karen via email on karendp@bigpond.net.au
or on 0418-216-836 for details, fees and appointment times.
Karen will then contact the other party to arrange a time suitable to
both parents. This way parties do not have to be in direct
contact with each other if their relationship is strained or
difficult.