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Family Law & Estates

Family Mediation

A structured, confidential process that helps families reach workable agreements without the cost and delay of a court battle.

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What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a structured process in which a neutral, trained mediator helps parties discuss their disputes openly and work towards a practical, mutually acceptable agreement. Unlike litigation, mediation is collaborative rather than adversarial, and the parties retain control over the outcome rather than having a decision imposed by a court.

When mediation is used

  • Divorce settlement negotiations, including division of assets and maintenance
  • Parenting plans covering care, contact and decision-making for minor children
  • Disputes between separated parents over schooling, relocation or holiday arrangements
  • Family disagreements relating to a deceased estate or elderly relative's care

Why families choose mediation

Mediation is generally faster and considerably less expensive than litigation. It also tends to preserve relationships better than an adversarial court process, which matters particularly where the parties will continue to co-parent after the process ends. Agreements reached through mediation can be made an order of court, giving them the same enforceability as a court order.

Our approach

We work with a qualified family mediator to guide sessions professionally and impartially, while providing the legal context needed so that any agreement reached is realistic, fair and capable of being formalised.

01Mediation-First MindsetLitigation only where it's genuinely the right route
02Plain-Language AdviceLegal terms explained clearly so you can decide with confidence
03Full Estate SupportFrom drafting a will to administering an estate, one firm throughout
04Personal InvolvementThe principal attorney remains involved in every family matter

The mediation process itself is not binding, but once parties reach agreement, it can be formalised into a written settlement and, where appropriate, made an order of court.

Yes, mediation can resolve all or some of the issues in a divorce, often significantly reducing the time and cost of the overall process.

Yes, discussions during mediation are conducted on a without-prejudice, confidential basis.

This varies by matter, but many family disputes are resolved within three to six sessions, depending on complexity and cooperation.

Partial agreement is still useful; unresolved issues can proceed to litigation or further negotiation while agreed points are recorded.

Yes, mediation is generally voluntary, although courts increasingly encourage or, in some matters, require parties to consider it first.

This is usually shared equally between the parties, though it can be agreed otherwise.

Not necessarily during sessions, but legal advice is recommended before signing any agreement reached through mediation.

Yes, mediation is often useful for resolving disagreements between beneficiaries or heirs during estate administration.

A good family mediator should have relevant training in mediation and family law, and remain strictly neutral between the parties.

Clear legal guidance starts with a conversation.

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