Which is better for resolving a family law matter? Collaborative Law or Mediation?
Collaborative Law and Mediation are both excellent ways to reach a family law agreement.
Whilst there are many similarities between mediation and collaborative law, they are also different.
It's important for you to decide which is best for you.
How do I choose?
The best way to decide which process is right for you is through information.
We recommend you read as much as you can about both mediation and collaborative practice.
It's important that you consider the way that you feel most comfortable making decisions. Decision-making is very different in each process. It's a balancing exercise taking into account which process is going to offer more benefits to you than the other.
Talk to your lawyer - we can loan you books that tell you about the processes in more detail and take you through the differences, step-by-step.
Talk to the proposed mediator/case manager/communication and family professional to learn more about the role they would take in the process.
Ultimately, there is no wrong or right process to use to finalise your separation but choosing Collaborative Law or Mediation is almost always better than going to court.
Let's talk
Jennifer Hetherington is an experienced Collaborative Lawyer with advanced level training in both Collaborative Law and Mediation.
She served as a board member on the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals and is Secretary of the Queensland Association of Collaborative Practitioners.
Jennifer is also a Nationally Accredited Mediator.
We can assist you to reach a resolution in either process.
Let's talk about which is better for you.
Further information and reading about Mediation and Collaborative Law
Mediation or Collaborative Practice - which is for you?
International Academy of Collaborative Professionals