Compulsory Family Dispute Resolution:

Where there is a family law parenting dispute, the parents are required to attend a compulsory family dispute resolution session, which are often run in suburban Family Relationship Centres. In some instances, the need to attend this session is waived, including where there are allegations of sexual assault or child abuse.

A compulsory family dispute resolution session is an informal meeting between the parents and a family dispute resolution practitioner. The aim of this session is for the parents to try to reach an amicable agreement as to future arrangements for the care and welfare of their children and the making of significant decisions that may affect the children. Types of matters for consideration include:

• Who the children will live with;
• When the children will spend time with the other parent;
• Other significant persons the children will spend time with (eg grandparents);
• The children's religion;
• The preschool/ primary school and/or high school the children will attend and the payment of school fees;
• How medical decisions concerning the children shall be made;
• Applying for a passport and overseas travel;
• Arrangements for school holidays, public holidays and other special events during the year such as birthdays.

If the parents are unable to reach an agreement as to these significant issues, the family dispute resolution practitioner will issue a certificate to that effect and the parents will then be permitted to file an application at Court seeking parenting orders.

If an agreement is reached during the family dispute resolution session, this agreement will not be legally binding or enforceable unless the agreed terms are set out as "Consent Orders" and filed with the Family Court. We can assist you in the preparation of such Consent Orders.

If you are unsure whether your circumstances require attendance at the compulsory family dispute session, or if you have other parenting concerns or issues, please contact our Family Law Lawyers by telephone on (02) 9233 4048 or send an email to info@navado.com.au.   

This webpage (and any material or wording appearing on this webpage) is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute any Legal Advice. It does not take into account your objectives, your instructions or all of the relevant facts and/or circumstances. Navado accepts no responsibility to any person who relies on the information provided on this website. We further refer you to our Disclaimer.