We encourage our clients to genuinely attempt to resolve their dispute prior to commencing proceedings in the Family Court. The Family Court generally expects parties to a family law matter to try and resolve their dispute before they make an application to the Court. For example, before you begin a children’s case (except in limited circumstances) you will need to attempt to negotiate an out of court solution with the other party.

Additionally, the Family Court usually requires parties in a financial case to either attend (or outline why they have not attended) some form of alternative dispute resolution such as mediation before the Court will schedule certain court events and hearings. That is, if you have not attended (or at least tried to) attend mediation before commencing proceedings, the Court may simply adjourn your matter until you have done so.

Both Amanda Thomas and Ben Gatter are qualified to represent you during family dispute resolution or mediation. Additionally, Ben is a Nationally Accredited Mediator through the Australian Institute of Family Law Arbitrators and Mediators (AIFLAM) and is able act as a mediator chairperson in a property settlement dispute. Ben is also able to act as a mediator in a children’s matter that has already commenced proceedings in the Family Court.

Fees structures for Ben to act as a mediator are as follows:

• $1,500 plus GST per day – maximum 7 hours – (including intake sessions) for mediation in relation to property disputes with asset pools up to $750,000; and
• $290 per hour plus GST (capped at $1,450 per day) for mediation in relation to parenting arrangements for matters already commenced in the Family Court.

Ben is also able to facilitate mediation at off-site facilities if appropriate and agreed between the parties and/or their solicitors. Additionally, Ben is able to conduct mediation outside of the Perth metropolitan area if it is more convenient for the parties. Again, please contact us for further information if you believe this service may suit you.

For asset pools over $750,000, mediation in relation to children’s matters that have not yet commenced in the Family Court, or if you have any further queries please contact us at [email protected] or via telephone to (08) 9378 2231.