Lovingkindness- the crucial ingredient for Family Dispute Resolution
Hypothesis: Our clients approach us, as Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners, to assist them towards resolution of the disputes arising from their separation. Generally, this requires that we work with them to achieve some type of behavioural change. In order to fulfill this role, we have to be our best selves, in other words, this requires…
Under the Tuscan Sun-Mediation Retreat 2018
I had no expectations of this event! I knew that I would benefit by the break from the Melbourne winter, and the notion of some time to ponder on my passion for mediation in the setting of Tuscany, seemed perfect! Little did I know when I booked late in 2017 how important this would be…
New insights into the Narrative Model of Conflict Coaching
I recently attended a workshop with Professor Nadja Alexander who presented the REAL approach to conflict coaching. This provided new and exciting insights into the understanding of, and dealing with conflict. I was inspired by her holistic approach, assisting clients not only to understand and deal with a particular conflict, but to develop conflict management…
Child Focus and the Narrative Model of Dispute Resolution
This approach to mediation evolved from the narrative family therapy model developed in the mid 1980s. [1] It is based on the understanding that the way we interpret the world around us depends on our social and cultural background and experiences. In other words, the meaning we attribute to events, our reactions and point of…
Obligations of the FDRP at intake
The Family Law Act defines Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) as: a process, other than a judicial process, in which a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) helps people affected or likely to be affected by separation or divorce to resolve some of all of their disputes with each other. [1] It is envisaged in this process…
Tools for change-towards a child focused outcome
As a family lawyer or Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) we have an obligation to ensure discussions with our clients, and any action or outcomes, comply with our duty to the court[i], and our obligations under the legislation. [ii] How do we fulfill these responsibilities if our clients refuse to co-operate? What strategies can we…
What do family lawyers really think about Family Dispute Resolution?
By Susan Hamilton-Green Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) has been compulsory prior to issuing court proceedings in parenting matters for some time now, and has become an essential consideration for family lawyers in supporting their clients to resolve disputes. As a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) and family lawyer, I understand the benefits of FDR…
Family Law Essentials
Part 1 The initial meeting with a family law client is crucial in achieving a satisfactory outcome for both client and solicitor. This is an opportunity to: Clarify the relationship between lawyer and client so that each appreciate what they can expect of the other; Obtain background information to enable the client to fully explain…