Alternatives to traditional litigation: A better way to resolve family disputes.
In other words, you might not need to take things to court.
Battling in court can take a significant emotional and financial toll on you and your family, so exploring alternatives to traditional litigation can be beneficial. Meditation is often more affordable than taking the case to court and can result in quicker outcomes. Our team is available to discuss the best approach for your unique needs.
Mediation is an alternative approach that can empower you and your spouse to take control of the decision-making process.
Our mediation service is a cost-effective way to settle disputes fairly without advancing to court.
Going through a court process can often feel like a battle, pitting you against your spouse and leaving your fate in the hands of a stranger. Even though ending a relationship can be painful, most people do not want to engage in a war with their soon-to-be ex-partner. If you are seeking closure and civility, there are options available that can lead to a resolution that works for everyone involved.
Book a confidential appointment with one of our trusted legal specialists today.
Work with a Nationally Accredited Mediator & Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
Meet Kay Feeney, Director of Feeney Family Law.
With over 35 years of experience in the legal industry, Kay Feeney is a highly accomplished Family Law Solicitor the Queensland Law Society recognises as an Accredited Family Law Specialist. Throughout her career, Kay has worked for reputable law firms and served as a Special Counsel in Family Law. Kay’s extensive experience has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of families’ challenges, particularly concerning parenting and child custody issues.
Kay has worked closely with parents and children to navigate the complexities of Family Law and provide them with the support they need.
How does the mediation process with Kay work?
Step 1: Before your Mediation
Being prepared and considering your options ahead of time will give you the best opportunity to achieve a positive outcome at your mediation. We recommend both parties work with their lawyer (if you have one) to discuss the mediation process, options for resolutions and things that will need to be negotiated.
In the days leading up to your mediation, Kay will meet separately with you and the other party (or parties) by telephone or video conference to discuss your goals, interests and concerns for the mediation.
Step 2: The Mediation Session
The mediation will begin with Kay discussing the process of mediation, the predetermined issues you’d like to be resolved and the options if a resolution is not reached. Sometimes this is done in a joint session, with both parties and their lawyers in the same room (physically or virtually). This can also be done separately.
Kay will assist in negotiations through conveying proposals between you and the other party, reality testing assumptions and working to assist with option generation.
The discussions between you and the other party at mediation are confidential and, except in very limited circumstances, cannot be used as evidence in any Court proceedings.
Step 3: After Mediation
At the conclusion of the mediation, if an agreement has been reached, a document known as a “Heads of Agreement” setting out the terms of the agreement will usually be prepared and signed by you and the other party.
This “Heads of Agreement” will usually form the basis for formal settlement documents, which are to be prepared after the mediation is complete.
If no agreement is reached in a parenting matter, Kay can issue a certificate under Section 60I of the Family Law Act.
Need a Section 60I Family Dispute Resolution Certificate? We can help.
Kay is authorised to issue Section 60I Family Dispute Resolution Certificates for parenting matters. Download our brochure for more details, and fill out the contact form below to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members for more details.
Speak to one of our friendly staff today about your circumstances.
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