What are the advantages of mediation?

Time Saving – Disputes that go to mediation can be resolved more speedily than protracted court proceedings.

Cost saving – Mediation is a more cost effective way of resolving a dispute  than contested court proceedings.

Control of the process -  In mediation you control the process and any outcome that is achieved.

Flexibility – You set the agenda and decide what issues need to be addressed, a much more flexible outcome can be achieved than would be available in a court context.

Confidentiality  – The process is completely confidential, voluntary and non binding.  If the parties decide to enter into a legally binding arrangement pursuant to mediation, this can be organised through their own legal representatives.

Preservation of relationships - Mediation avoids polarising the parties in the same way a court case does, The process assists the parties in finding ways to communicate going forward.  A balanced agreement is reached that is acceptable to both parties.  Parents are helped to remain as partners in childrearing by developing parenting plans that are personal to each family.