Mediation & Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)

Not every family law matter needs to be resolved in Court. Mediation and Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) give separating couples the opportunity to reach agreements in a supportive and cost-effective way. At Wallen Family Law, our family lawyers in Wollongong, the Illawarra, St George and greater South Sydney guide clients through mediation with empathy and clarity, focusing on outcomes that protect children and reduce conflict.

Whether you need help preparing for mediation, negotiating parenting arrangements, or documenting a property settlement, our fixed-fee family law services provide certainty while you work toward a fair resolution outside of Court.

How We Can Help

We provide advice and representation across all areas of mediation and family dispute resolution (FDR), including:

  • Success in mediation often depends on good preparation. We work with you beforehand to clarify your goals, gather relevant information, and anticipate potential challenges. This ensures you feel confident and ready to negotiate.

  • During mediation or FDR, we support you in identifying issues, exploring options, and working towards practical solutions. Our role is to ensure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and the process remains focused on outcomes that are workable and fair.

  • If agreement is reached, we prepare parenting plans, consent orders, or financial agreements to make the outcome legally binding. This avoids uncertainty and reduces the risk of future disputes.

  • Not all matters can be resolved outside of court. If mediation or FDR does not result in agreement, we guide you through the next steps, including court applications and litigation where necessary.

    We balance strength with empathy, protecting your interests without unnecessary conflict.

  • We usually recommend working with a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) or accredited mediator. We connect you with trusted professionals and support you through the process from start to finish.

Common Questions About Mediation and FDR

  • In most parenting matters, yes. You usually need a section 60I certificate from an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner before filing an application in court, unless there is urgency or safety concerns.

  • If the other party won’t attend, the mediator can issue a certificate allowing you to proceed to court.

  • Yes. We can attend mediation with you to provide advice, support, and negotiation assistance.

  • We draft consent orders or financial agreements so your settlement is legally binding and enforceable.

Next Steps

If you’re facing a family dispute, mediation or FDR can be the first step towards resolution — saving you stress, time, and costs.

Book a free 15-minute consultation today to discuss your situation with us.

Book a FREE Consultation

You may also find these links helpful:

Mediation can help resolve issues around Parenting & Custody, Property Settlements, and Consent Orders.

To understand how mediation can help protect your business interests during separation, you might like our article — Protecting Your Small Business Through Divorce Mediation or Litigation.

Ask about our Fixed Fee Mediation Packages or Legal Aid eligibility.