How We Work
Post Separation Parenting – Family Dispute Resolution
When parents separate or divorce, they want to make decisions about parenting arrangements in their children’s best interests. However, they do not always agree about what is in the best interests of their children. At ISDR, we provide a safe environment for parents to have a constructive conversation that enables them to better understand each other’s perspective. We then help parents to collaborate or negotiate with each other in order to make decisions.
Principles of Mediation
There are a couple of things that are important to know as you begin to consider the possibility of mediation with ISDR:
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The role of the mediators is to be neutral – We won’t take sides with either of you. We won’t make decisions for you and we won’t tell you what to do.
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Because the mediators are neutral, it does not matter who requests the mediation process. Both parties are treated equally and are able to raise topics for discussion during the mediation.
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ISDR is focused on providing a process that is safe for all the parties. If you have any concerns about your safety, it is really important that you let us know.
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At ISDR, we are proponents of the mediation process because it offers the possibility of a cheaper and less conflictual process to the alternative of a legal process through the Family Law Courts.
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However, if you are unable to reach agreement in mediation, and decide to pursue a legal process, everything discussed during the mediation process is inadmissible as evidence in the family law courts.
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The Family Law Act, 1975, requires most separated parents to attempt FDR. However, if both parties make a ‘genuine effort’ during mediation and it is not possible to reach agreement, we can provide you with a Section 60I certificate, that will enable you to take the matter to court.
