Case Studies

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SMART SOLUTIONS. PERSONAL  ATTENTION.

 

Andrew and Kate - Mediation

 

Andrew and Kate had reached an impasse in their family law negotiations about their children, child support and property matters. Their lawyers advised them that before going to court, they should try mediation.

Andrew and Kate agreed to meet with Vanessa at her office. They agreed that their lawyers did not need to attend the mediation, but they could contact them if they needed legal advice.

During the mediation Vanessa facilitated the conversation between Andrew and Kate, so that each had the opportunity to speak freely while the other listened. At times they spoke separately with Vanessa, to provide further information and to clarify issues. After a full day, Andrew and Kate were able to reach agreement on all issues, which Vanessa documented in a letter to their lawyers.

At the end of the mediation, Andrew and Kate thanked Vanessa, saying that this had been the first occasion since separation that they had really been able to speak to each other without conflict. They were very glad that mediation had helped them to avoid going to the court.

Jennifer and John - Family Dispute Resolution

Jennifer and John were referred for family dispute resolution by their family lawyers. Jennifer and John were in dispute about Jennifer's wish to relocate from Melbourne to Brisbane with their son James. The relocation would mean that instead of John spending time with James each week, he would mostly see him only during school holidays.

Neither Jennifer nor John wanted to go court, but each felt strongly about the issue and were unable agree about what should happen. Their lawyers recommended family dispute resolution.

Vanessa met privately with Jennifer, and then with John. She assessed that if Jennifer and John were willing to participate in family dispute resolution, there was a very real possibility that agreement could be reached. Jennifer and John agreed to attend.

Three two hour sessions were held. At times it seemed as if an agreement could not be reached and that a certificate would have to be issued by Vanessa, permitting Jennifer or John to commence court proceedings.

Eventually however, Jennifer and John agreed that Jennifer could take James to Brisbane and that James would spend significant time with him during school holidays. They also agreed to share in the cost of James' travel between Melbourne and Brisbane.

The agreement was documented as a Parenting Plan, signed and dated by Jennifer and John. A copy was provided to their lawyers.