Mediation and Dispute Resolution in Family Law
Mediation and dispute resolution are often the quickest and least stressful ways to resolve family law issues, and Law Tram helps you connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can explain the process and your options. This obligation-free online service supports you in understanding Family Dispute Resolution, preparation requirements, negotiation strategies and how agreements can be formalised.
Trying to reach an agreement without going to court?
Family law disputes including parenting arrangements and property settlements don’t always need to end up in court. In fact, Australian law encourages parties to resolve matters through mediation or other forms of dispute resolution wherever possible.
Mediation can help you and your former partner reach a fair outcome with less stress, lower costs, and more control over the result. In many cases, it’s a required first step before applying to the Family Court.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can guide you through the mediation process, help you prepare, and support you in securing a workable agreement that protects your rights.
Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with mediation and dispute resolution, including:
- Preparing for family dispute resolution (FDR)
- Representing you during property or parenting mediations
- Explaining what to expect during the mediation process
- Drafting parenting plans or property agreements after successful mediation
- Applying for exemptions from mediation where appropriate (e.g. family violence)
- Converting informal agreements into Consent Orders
- Supporting you through shuttle mediation or private negotiation
- Advising on mediation outcomes and legal enforceability
- Helping with ongoing negotiation even after initial attempts fail
- Protecting your interests in high-conflict or emotionally charged situations
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers experienced in family law mediation
- Secure and private intake to outline your circumstances clearly
- Fast guidance on preparation, negotiation and formalising agreements
- No obligation to engage a lawyer unless you choose to proceed
- Lawyers help you understand dispute resolution options confidently
How it works
Confidential and Secure Questionnaire
Start by completing our secure online questionnaire. This step allows you to provide essential details about your family law matter and personal circumstances.
Confidential Legal Summary
Law Tram’s advanced technology generates a confidential legal summary of your situation while keeping your personal details private.
Review by Licensed Australian Lawyers
Your confidential legal summary is shared with our network of vetted lawyers who review your case to determine how they can assist.
Connect with a Lawyer
If a lawyer believes they can help, they will initiate a chat with you through the Law Tram platform. Your contact details remain private unless you choose to share them.
No Obligation
You are under no pressure to retain any lawyer unless you are confident in their ability to assist. Law Tram empowers you to make informed decisions.
What others are saying
Legal information only – not a substitute for advice
This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Family law mediation has legal implications and timeframes. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner to ensure your rights are protected.
Note: “Free service” refers only to Law Tram’s platform and process, not the legal advice itself.
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in family law mediation and dispute resolution. Whether you are preparing for mediation, needing guidance before negotiations or wanting to formalise an agreement, our platform helps you access tailored legal advice before you proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
In most parenting matters, yes. You must attempt Family Dispute Resolution before applying to court unless an exemption applies.
You may still apply to court. The mediator will issue a certificate confirming that mediation was attempted or deemed inappropriate.
It’s not required, but having legal advice before or during mediation can help you understand your rights and prepare effectively.
Yes. A lawyer can help you formalise agreements as Consent Orders so they are legally binding.
You may be exempt from mediation. A lawyer can help you apply directly to the court or explore safer alternatives to negotiation.
Yes. Shuttle mediation or online mediation may be used to keep parties separate. A lawyer can advise whether mediation is suitable or if an exemption may apply.
Generally yes, mediation is a confidential process, and discussions cannot be used in court later. A lawyer can explain the limited exceptions to this rule.
Agreements can be written into a parenting plan or turned into consent orders for enforceability. A lawyer can help prepare or formalise these documents.