Family Dispute Resolution:
Helping Families Reach Agreement
Separation can be one of the most emotionally and financially challenging experiences a family faces. When disagreements arise regarding children, property or finances, many people assume that court is the only option.
In reality, many family law disputes can be resolved through Family Dispute Resolution. Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) provides a structured, confidential and child-focused process that helps people discuss issues, explore options and work towards practical agreements with the assistance of an independent Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
At Patford-Smith Legal Services, Family Dispute Resolution is conducted by Lauren Patford-Smith, an experienced Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Family Lawyer, Parenting Coordinator and Independent Children’s Lawyer. Our goal is to help families move forward with greater clarity, reduced conflict and workable outcomes.
Unsure where to begin?
Many people choose to start with our Separation Strategy Session before deciding whether Family Dispute Resolution, Collaborative Practice, Parenting Coordination or litigation is the most appropriate pathway.
Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement . Helping Families Reach Agreement .
What Is
Family Dispute Resolution?
Family Dispute Resolution is a form of mediation specifically designed to assist separated couples and parents to resolve disputes outside of court.
The process involves an independent and impartial Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner who helps participants have productive discussions, explore options and work towards agreement.
The Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner does not take sides, make decisions for the parties or determine who is right or wrong. Instead, they facilitate discussions and assist participants to focus on finding practical solutions.
For many families, Family Dispute Resolution provides a more flexible, cost-effective and constructive alternative to litigation.
What can Family Dispute Resolution be used to discuss
Family Dispute Resolution can be used to discuss:
- Parenting arrangements
- Living arrangements for children
- Time spent with each parent
- Schooling and education issues
- Communication between parents
- Holiday arrangements
- Property settlements
- Financial matters following separation
Is Family Dispute Resolution Required Before Court?
In many parenting matters, parties are required to attempt Family Dispute Resolution before commencing court proceedings unless an exemption applies.
Following participation in the process, a Section 60I Certificate may be issued where appropriate.
If you are unsure whether Family Dispute Resolution is required in your circumstances, we can discuss this during your intake appointment.
Is mediation just “giving in”?
A common misconception is that mediation requires one party to compromise their values, concerns or important issues.
That is not the purpose of Family Dispute Resolution.
The process is designed to create a safe and structured environment where issues can be discussed constructively.
You remain in control of the decisions you make.
No agreement is reached unless both parties agree.
Family Dispute Resolution is about creating opportunities for resolution, not forcing outcomes.
Why Choose Family Dispute Resolution?
Many families choose Family Dispute Resolution because it offers:
- Greater control over outcomes
- Lower costs than litigation
- Faster resolution of disputes
- Flexible and practical solutions
- Child-focused discussions
- Confidentiality
- Reduced conflict
- Improved communication
For many families, reaching agreement through Family Dispute Resolution can preserve relationships and reduce the emotional and financial impact of ongoing conflict.
How The Process Works
Step 1: Individual Intake Sessions
Each participant attends a confidential intake session. The purpose of the intake session is to:
- Assess suitability for Family Dispute Resolution
- Discuss the issues in dispute
- Identify any safety concerns
- Explain the process
- Understand each participant’s goals
Step 2: Preparation
Following the intake sessions, mediation arrangements are made and participants are prepared for the Family Dispute Resolution session.
Step 3: Family Dispute Resolution Session
The Family Dispute Resolution session may be conducted online or in person. Depending on the issues involved, the session may focus on parenting matters, property matters or both.
Step 4: Outcome
Where agreement is reached, we can discuss the available options for documenting and formalising those agreements.
Step 5: Section 60I Certificate
Where appropriate, a Section 60I Certificate may be issued following completion of the process.
From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters . From Separation to Succession . Protecting What Matters .
Family Dispute Resolution Fees
Intake Session
$400 plus GST per person
Includes:
Confidential intake appointment
Suitability assessment
Discussion of issues in dispute
Screening for Family Dispute
Resolution suitability
Explanation of the process
Half-Day Session
$1,545 plus GST total
($772.50 plus GST per party)
Suitable for:
Parenting matters
Property matters
Less complex disputes
Includes:
Family Dispute Resolution session
Preparation and administration
Section 60I Certificate where applicable
Full-Day Session
$2,410 plus GST total
($1,205 plus GST per party)
Suitable for:
Combined parenting and property matters
More complex disputes
Includes:
Family Dispute Resolution session
Preparation and administration
Section 60I Certificate where applicable
Child Inclusive Family Dispute Resolution
Additional $455 plus GST
Child Inclusive Family Dispute Resolution allows children’s experiences and perspectives to be considered through a child-focused framework where appropriate.
Where additional time is required beyond the booked session, time will be billed at $400 per hour plus GST ($200 per party plus GST).
Where appropriate, Section 60I Certificates are included within the Family Dispute Resolution process and are not charged separately.
Not quite sure if this is the right pathway?
Many clients begin with a Separation Strategy Session before deciding whether Family Dispute Resolution, Parenting Coordination, Collaborative Practice or litigation is the most appropriate option.
Take the next step
Whether you are seeking assistance with parenting arrangements, property settlement discussions or resolving disputes outside of court, Family Dispute Resolution may provide a practical pathway forward. Contact Patford-Smith Legal Services or book your intake session online today.