Tools & Tips

Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a Mediation process where an independent and impartial practitioner assists parties to resolve their family disputes. This method focuses on improving communication, fostering mutual understanding and reaching amicable agreements without the need for court intervention.

FDR can assist with various family-related disputes, including:

• Parenting arrangements

• Property settlements and divisions (and/or other relevant financial matters)

• Child support and maintenance

• Co-parenting communication breakdowns

• Spousal maintenance and spousal support

– Cost-effective: FDR is typically less expensive than going to court.

- Time-saving: Resolving disputes through FDR can be faster than the court process.

– Confidential: Discussions in FDR are private and cannot be used as evidence in court.

- Control: Parties have more control over the outcome compared to a court decision.

- Less adversarial: FDR promotes cooperation and reduces conflict, which is especially beneficial for children involved.

Anyone who is a party to a dispute can use Mediation. You should be willing to meet with the other party to resolve the dispute.

Mediation is appropriate at any stage of a dispute and does not require an underlying legal matter. Participating in Mediation early in a dispute can assist with reducing conflict and ongoing costs.

A 60I certificate is a document required by the Family Law Act before you can apply to the court for parenting orders. It shows that both parties have attempted to resolve their parenting dispute through family dispute resolution (FDR). The certificate is issued by an accredited FDR practitioner and confirms one of the following:

- One or both parties attended FDR but could not reach an agreement.

- One party did not attend.

- The practitioner determined FDR was inappropriate, such as in cases of domestic violence.

Without a 60I certificate, you generally cannot commence court proceedings for parenting orders, except in cases involving urgency, family violence, or other specific exemptions.

We understand that many parents need to move forward with legal matters urgently. Our service is designed to help you obtain a 60I certificate fast—often within 5 business days. Here's how we can assist:

1. Initial Consultation: We will assess your case, guide you through the process, and explain if FDR is appropriate or if you qualify for an exemption.

2. Family Dispute Resolution Session: If mediation is needed, we quickly arrange a session with an accredited FDR practitioner. If the other parent refuses to attend or engage, we can still issue the 60I certificate.

3. Issuance of Certificate: After the FDR session or assessment of an exemption, we issue your 60I certificate, enabling you to proceed with court applications if necessary.

If parents are unable to reach an agreement during family dispute resolution, the FDR practitioner will issue a 60I certificate indicating that no agreement was made. This allows you to proceed with a court application for parenting orders.

It’s important to note that FDR is a voluntary process, and while it encourages cooperation, it is not always possible to resolve every dispute. If mediation doesn’t work, or if it’s deemed inappropriate due to circumstances like family violence, you can take the next steps through the legal system