There are alternatives to the Court process when resolving disputes arising from family breakdowns. An application to the Family Court should only be considered as a last resort and the following options are available:-

Mediation

Mediation is a process where you attend a series of meetings with an independent mediator to attempt to resolve issues relating to your children or your finances in an amicable way with the assistance of an independent mediator. Mediation can prove useful if you both remain on good terms and are keen to reach an agreement without the expense and hostility of the Court process. If you wish to consider mediation please contact Prince Family Law who can guide you to appropriate and experienced mediators.

Collaborative Law

At Prince Family Law Lisa O’Connor is our trained collaborative lawyer. Collaborative law is a process enabling couples who have decided to separate to work with their respective lawyers and other professionals for example accountants, counsellors etc to achieve a settlement that meets the needs of both themselves and their children. The settlement does not necessarily have to be a settlement that would be approved by the Court and the collaborative process is very much for the individuals to work together with their lawyers to reach a solution that they are all happy with. This is a voluntary process which is initiated by both parties signing a Participation Agreement binding each other to the process and providing that if the process fails they will each appoint alternative lawyers. Collaborative law can be very effective and cost efficient for parties who are committed to the process. If you wish to discuss collaborative law please contact Lisa O’Connor at Prince Family Law who will be happy to outline the procedure to you and discuss the likely costs involved.

Arbitration

Family Arbitration offers an alternative to a courtroom in a more flexible and informal environment. It offers you the opportunity of resolving disputes more quickly. An Arbitrator will be agreed and appointed by you both and the same Arbitrator will then deal with all stages of your case from start to finish. You both have an input into the process to include choice of Arbitrator and venue and whether you are comfortable meeting face to face or in writing only. You also have the choice whether to use the Arbitrator throughout the whole process or just for parts when required. The decision of the Arbitrator is binding. At Prince Family Law we have experience in dealing with cases using Family Arbitration. The process can be far quicker than the court process and therefore more cost effective. If you consider this may be appropriate to your case we will discuss the benefits of this option with you.

Negotiation

If you feel that mediation, collaborative law or arbitration are not options you wish to explore yet you are reluctant (understandably) to engage in the Court process then Prince Family Law will enter into negotiations with your spouse or their solicitor on your behalf. Our advice will be clear and honest and our representation strong. If considered appropriate a round table meeting (at which you, your Prince Family Law lawyer, your spouse and their lawyer would be present) can be organised to attempt to negotiate a settlement. If you wish to discuss any of the options above please contact Prince Family Law to arrange a free 30 minute consultation.