In my career as a family law solicitor, I have witnessed firsthand the stress and financial burden experienced by families navigating the family court system. A couple of years ago, I made a decision that there had to be a better way to assist separating families in resolving their family law dilemmas.
A better way meant finding a child-focused approach that prioritises dignity and resolves matters as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. Enter Collaborative Practice.
In 2023, while on maternity leave, I completed my training to become a Collaborative Practitioner. I am proud to offer this alternative dispute resolution method to my clients at The Family Law Co. and Let’s Talk Mediations.
Collaborative Practice is a versatile approach to resolving family law disputes. It aims to preserve the parties’ dignity and respect while providing the support they need.
The process starts with both parties agreeing to stay out of court. Then, with the assistance of their solicitors and any other experts, they engage in a series of meetings facilitated by the Collaborative Coach. This coach guides the parties and their lawyers through the issues, encouraging open and respectful discussions and facilitating interest-based negotiations.
This open environment fosters peaceful dispute resolution and clear communication, minimising instances of misunderstanding or mistrust between parties. In a recent article in The Australian Financial Review, Duncan Hughes sheds light on the benefits of Collaborative Practice, featuring insights from Jane Needham SC based on her personal experience with this form of alternative dispute resolution.
While Collaborative Practice has had a slow start in the Hunter Valley, I anticipate that we will see more and more clients requesting this alternative dispute resolution method in the future.
If you’re navigating a family law dispute and seeking a child-focused, dignified, and efficient resolution, consider Collaborative Practice with The Family Law Co. and Let’s Talk Mediations.
Contact us today to explore your options and begin your journey toward a peaceful resolution.
📞 02 4081 0855
📧 hello@familylawco.com.au
🌐 familylawco.com.au
