Mediation is a voluntary process that helps people considering separation or divorce to resolve their disputes more quickly, and cost-effectively. Participants work with an independent mediator to identify their issues, develop options, consider alternatives and make decisions about future actions and outcomes.
Swan Family Lawyers specialises in family law mediation. Christopher Swan is a nationally accredited mediator, is qualified as a family dispute resolution practitioner, and is accredited by the Law Society of South Australia. Christopher can issue Section 60i Certificates.
About the process
A mediator is a neutral third person who supports participants to reach their own decisions. The process allows participants to have a conversation in a safe place knowing issues can be talked about without a judge deciding what’s right or wrong. It’s also a process that can improve understanding within a relationship. Family law mediation can be as confidential as the parties wish it to be and as far as the law allows - this will be discussed between the mediator and the parties at the start of the mediation.
Compared with going to court, mediation is:
- Less expensive
- Faster
- More flexible
- Less formal
- Less stressful
In consultation with the mediator, each party can arrange to bring one or more person to support or assist them. This may be a professional adviser such as a lawyer or accountant, or a friend.
The parties attending the mediation have the authority to make decisions on any proposed settlement, unless other arrangements have been made. The final settlement may be legally binding, depending on the wishes of the parties.
Christopher offers online mediation and Family Dispute Resolution ("FDR") through electronic platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Skype and by telephone. Online mediation and FDR is an effective process when parties are unable to be in the same room and provides the parties with flexibility to reach resolution. Christopher is still able to issue a Section 60i Certificate if the parties attempt FDR using an electronic platform.