When agreements cannot be reached, dispute resolution can help families achieve the best possible outcomes during an emotional time. When it comes to things like financial arrangements, child care, child support and the settlement of property, it is important to make the best decisions in the interest of your children and your future.

FDR

During the process of a marriage separation, couples can struggle to reach an agreement. Family dispute resolution is a way to get couples who are separating to work more cooperatively. The process also helps teach both parties and any others involved how to better communicate and make rational decisions in order to resolve dispute.

Also known as FDR, family dispute resolution is a compulsory part of separation when you and your partner are unable to come to an agreement. The only time parties may be exempt are when there is child abuse or family violence involved. For a parent to apply for a parenting order, they must go through FDR. They then receive a certificate that confirms genuine efforts were made.

The process of family dispute resolution

The process of FDR includes;

• Looking at issues that need resolving
• Listening to the other point of view with no interruptions
• Learning how to share information that is relevant
• Exploring options and ideas in a safe setting
• Testing solutions
• Both parties put in writing their choices and agreements

Practitioners of family dispute resolution come from various backgrounds and their skills also include marriage counselling Perth. Counsellors are there to help you resolve conflict, not to offer legal advice, and this is why you need the help and services of a family lawyer. When children are involved, you lawyer’s focus is on your children’s best interests. They are impartial and the focus is on resolution and making the best choices for the future.

Why should you go through FDR during a marriage separation?

There are many benefits to family dispute resolution;

• Save money and speed up court proceedings (if applicable)
• Enhancing your ability to parent even while separated because of the promotion of communication and cooperation
• FDR is less stressful and traumatic than going through the court process
• Creating a foundation so that future disputes are better and more quickly resolved
• Keeping control of decision making rather than having the court impose its own decision on you
• Both parties are more likely to stick to the agreements

Decisions are not legally binding

When you go through family dispute resolution, the decisions you make are not legally binding. You give your opinion and talk about concerns and issues, and listen to the other party. Being open to the process and being willing to compromise is a big part of how successful FDR can be.