FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIPS
Resolve Family Disputes With Compassionate Family Mediation, Not Courtrooms
Disputes within families are never easy. Whether you are separating, negotiating parenting arrangements, or facing inheritance conflicts, the stakes are deeply personal and the path forward can feel overwhelming. Finding a resolution that is fair, balanced, and lasting is essential not only for today but for your future peace of mind.
At Nevett Ford, we understand the emotional weight behind these decisions. That’s why our accredited family dispute mediation lawyers bring both legal expertise and compassion to every case. With decades of experience and recognised qualifications in mediation, we help families move past conflict and jointly progress towards real-world solutions.
We also draw on collaborative law, a process where both parties and their lawyers work together to reach an agreement without the stress of going to court. Our goal is to support you in protecting what you value, preserving the relationships you care about, and safeguarding a better future for you and your loved ones.
What is Family Dispute Mediation?
Family dispute mediation is a structured, confidential process in which a neutral family mediation lawyer helps families resolve conflicts without resorting to litigation. These can include separation, divorce, and/or inheritance disputes.
If a family relationship breaks down or conflicts arise, mediation provides a safe, guided space to work towards fair agreements that consider the needs of everyone involved. Consulting an experienced lawyer before starting mediation is highly recommended; access to expert legal advice significantly improves the chances of reaching a successful resolution.
Important: Mediation focuses on resolving disputes outside of court and providing practical, mutually agreed solutions. While agreements can be formalised legally, the process is voluntary and guided by collaboration, not litigation.
Our Family Dispute Mediation Services
Divorce and Separation Mediation
Helping couples reach fair agreements without unnecessary hostility.
Property and Financial Settlement Mediation
Clarifying assets, superannuation, and other financial responsibilities.
Parenting Arrangement Mediation
Creating child-focused parenting arrangements that support stability and co-parenting.
Estate and Inheritance Dispute Mediation
Resolving sensitive conflicts over wills and estates with fairness and compassion.
Lawyer-Assisted Mediation
Ensuring your rights are protected throughout the mediation process.
Family Court Mediation
Providing guidance and representation before and after court proceedings to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
WHEN TO CONSIDER FAMILY DISPUTE MEDIATION
Family dispute mediation can help if you are:
✓ Struggling to agree on parenting arrangements
✓ Facing disputes about property, finances, or inheritance
✓ Wanting to avoid the high costs and stress of court
✓ Concerned about maintaining family relationships
✓ Looking for a private, confidential resolution
✓ Wanting to move forward with clarity and peace
Mediation isn’t just for separating couples; it’s for any family that values resolution over conflict.
Why Family Dispute Mediation Matters
When relationships fracture, emotions run high and decisions become harder. Going to court often intensifies conflict, increases costs, and prolongs the pain. Mediation offers something different: a private, structured process designed to help families achieve fair and lasting resolutions.
Control and Flexibility
You and your family have the opportunity to shape the outcome, rather than having a judge impose a solution.
Discretion and Confidentiality
All discussions remain confidential, keeping sensitive family and financial matters out of the public eye.
Faster, More Affordable Resolution
Lawyer-assisted mediation is generally much cheaper than court and can resolve disputes in days or weeks, rather than months or years.
Preserved Relationships
Mediation encourages respectful communication, reduces conflict, and helps maintain relationships. This is especially important when children are involved.
Tailored Solutions
Agreements are customised to your unique circumstances, whether for property settlements, parenting arrangements, financial matters, or inheritance disputes.
How Nevett Ford Supports Your Family Dispute Mediation Journey
1. Initial Consultation
We learn your story, assess your situation, and explain your options. If you have legal representation, your lawyer-assisted mediation may involve a briefing note prepared by your lawyer for the mediator.
2. Joint Mediation Sessions
Where safe and appropriate, both parties will come together to discuss issues, understand each other’s perspectives, and explore viable solutions.
3. Shuttle Mediation
If direct meetings are not possible, the mediator will facilitate negotiations by communicating between parties separately.
4. Negotiation and “Reality Testing”
We help you evaluate practical solutions and outcomes using “reality testing”, considering both the Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement (BATNA) and the Worst Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement (WATNA). We will then assist you in negotiating an agreement.
5. Agreement Formalisation
Once a mutually acceptable agreement is reached, it is documented, signed, and legally formalised, allowing both parties to move forward.
Why Choose Nevett Ford
Decades Of Experience
Our team is backed by tertiary qualifications in mediation and years of experience in family dispute resolution mediation, with hundreds advised upon each year.
Personalised Service
Our lawyers will accommodate your needs instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.
High Success Rates
We strive to provide a fair and positive resolution and outcome for all parties involved.
Premium, Comfortable Facilities
We conduct mediation in modern, welcoming rooms with harbour views and remote video links, designed to reduce stress and support productive conversations.
Discreet and Confidential
We prioritise our clients’ comfort. Our private family mediation services ensure your complete privacy and confidentiality.
Initial Fixed Cost Consultations
Our team is committed to transparency and affordability. We offer a full day of mediation, including access to our premium conference room facilities, for a reasonable rate of $3,500, including GST.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer during family dispute mediation?
While not mandatory, having a family dispute resolution mediation lawyer is highly recommended. A lawyer can:
- Explain what to expect during mediation
- Outline possible court outcomes if mediation fails
- Highlight the strengths and weaknesses of your case
- Help you prepare strong negotiation strategies.
A lawyer-assisted mediation ensures you are informed, supported, and confident throughout the process.
How much does family dispute mediation cost?
We offer a full-day family mediation service at a reasonable daily rate of $3,500 (including GST). This includes access to our premium conference facilities with stunning harbour views. We also provide transparent pricing upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.
How long does family dispute mediation take?
Many family disputes can be resolved in a single day. Complex matters, such as property, finances, or inheritance disputes, may require additional sessions. Your mediator or lawyer will guide the process according to your specific circumstances.
What is family court mediation?
Family court mediation is offered before or after court proceedings. A mediator works with both parties to resolve disputes, reduce delays, and potentially avoid lengthy litigation, while preserving the legal rights of all parties involved.
Are family dispute mediation agreements legally binding?
Agreements reached through family mediation services can be formalised and made legally binding, giving both parties certainty and protection while reducing the likelihood of future disputes.
Who attends family dispute mediation sessions?
Typically, both parties attend together, though shuttle mediation may be used to meet separately if needed. Lawyers can also participate in lawyer-assisted mediation to provide advice and support.
Is family dispute mediation confidential?
Yes. Family mediation sessions are private and confidential, keeping sensitive family and financial matters out of public court records.
How should I prepare for family dispute mediation?
- Gather relevant documents such as financial statements, property details, or parenting proposals.
- Consider realistic outcomes and non-negotiable points.
- Consult with a family dispute mediation lawyer beforehand for clarity and confidence in your position.
What if the other party refuses to participate in family dispute mediation?
Family dispute mediation is voluntary. If one party refuses, you may still pursue court proceedings. A mediator’s certificate confirming that mediation was attempted is often required by the court before litigation.
What happens if family dispute mediation fails?
Mediation may not succeed if:
- One party refuses to participate in the mediation process
- The situation is unsuitable for mediation
- No agreement can be reached.
