Five Common Family Dispute Resolution Terms
Family disputes can be emotionally challenging, particularly when making decisions that affect children, property, and other important family matters.
In recent years, legislation in Australia has made it compulsory for couples to attend mediation (also known as FDR or family dispute resolution) if they have children.
In most situations, before any case can be heard by a Court, the couple must attend mediation with a Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
Family dispute resolution (FDR) refers to a process in which an independent third party called a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) helps people to identify the issues in dispute and explore options for resolving them. FDRP's should be registered with the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department.
Below are five common Family Dispute Resolution terms that are often used during the process and what they mean.
FDR - Family Dispute Resolution.
Family dispute resolution (FDR) refers to a process in which an independent third party called a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) helps people to identify the issues in dispute and explore options for resolving them.
Paul Walkden
Principal Solicitor / Accredited FDRP (Mediator)
Independent Children’s Lawyer
To make an enquiry, please contact our offices on 02 4655 1231 or email Paul Walkden, paul@walkdenlaw.com.au.
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
Also known as a Mediator, an FDRP is the person who is going to ‘chair’ the FDR/Mediation. They are normally a third party who is not otherwise involved in the party’s dispute that helps them to navigate to a resolution.
SECTION 60I CERTIFICATE - Certificate of Attendance
A Section 60I Certificate may be issued at the end of an FDR for a number of reasons, the most common being that the parties were unable to reach a resolution. This Certificate in most cases must be filed when making an application (Family Law Parenting Proceedings).
SHUTTLE MEDIATION - A Type Of Mediation
A shuttle mediation takes place when the parties are in separate rooms and the FDRP/Mediator moves between the rooms. In a shuttle mediation the parties do not directly speak with each other.
INTAKE – A Pre-FDR/Mediation Process
Prior to an FDR/Mediation taking place the FDRP/Mediator will undertake a process referred to as intake. This is when the matter is screened for potential issues and risks that may arise out of the mediation. Intake may take a few forms including intake questioners and intake meetings.
Paul Walkden is a Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and is able to provide you with a Section 60I Certificate.
It is paramount to our team that our clients feel respected and valued throughout the entire process.
In addition to Paul Walkden’s extensive experience in Family Law, Paul is an Accredited Mediator and Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
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