Alternative & Non-Court Family Dispute Resolution

Our Family Dispute Solicitors are leading experts nationally, and consistently resolve complex legal matters.

We understand that going through any dispute can be incredibly stressful. Whether it is arrangements for the children, discussions about the finances, or practical arrangements for separating, it can be a highly emotive time. If legal proceedings and court proceedings also become involved in family difficulties, it can become even more stressful.

At Rowlinsons Solicitors we will discuss trying to resolve your disputes as amicably and respectfully as possible. We have helped many of our client’s resolve matters amicably, without the need for lengthy and costly court proceedings.

We have a number of dispute resolution options to help you resolve your family law issue amicably, respectfully and with your family’s needs at heart. Our team includes a qualified Collaborative Lawyer and an accredited Family Mediator. They can talk you through all of the options to see what is right for you and your family.

What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

Alternative dispute resolution for family disputes is a process of resolving family law matters outside of the traditional court system. ADR methods are voluntary and confidential, and they allow the parties to the dispute to have more control over the process and the outcome.

ADR is often a better option for families than going to court because it is more likely to preserve relationships between the parties, it is more flexible and adaptable to the needs of the family, and it is quicker and less expensive than going to court.

Our Alternative Family Law Dispute Resolution Lawyers are very well-versed in this area of family law, and can help you resolve a wide variety of family disputes with minimal animosity.

Our Alternative Non-Court resolutions services

Collaborative Family Law Solicitor

Collaborative Law is an approach to resolving disputes in a non-confrontational manner through mutual problem solving and collaboration. Both parties work with their collaborative law solicitors to reach a resolution without the threat of court proceedings.  The approach relies on all parties being honest and open in their discussions and can be very effective in removing the stress and costs associated with the court process.  It can also help reduce the emotional cost on couples and their children when families split up.

Our qualified Collaborative Lawyer can talk to you about this option and discuss whether it is right for you. We can represent you during the Collaborative Law process, helping you achieve an out of court resolution.

Family Mediation Services

Family mediation is a way for separating couples and family members to resolve disputes and difficult issues in an amicable manner. Many separating couples want to reach agreements themselves regarding arrangements for their children or financial matters. Family mediation solicitors can provide a safe, neutral space to allow separating couples to reach a resolution.

Our Accredited Family Dispute Solicitors include an expert mediator, and a member of Resolution, the Family Mediation Council and the Family Mediation Association. She is also qualified as a Child Inclusive Mediator, enabling the voice of the child to be heard within the mediation process to enable parents to make decisions for the children's best interests.

Arbitration

A form of alternative family law dispute resolution to help couples avoid Court proceedings, arbitration is a process a couple can choose to help resolve their family disputes. The couple appoint a qualified expert arbitrator who will make a decision that will be final and legally binding for the parties.

Our expert Family Dispute Solicitors can assist you during the arbitration process, advising you on the options, helping select the best arbitrator for you, and representing you through the arbitration process.

When could I need Alternative Family Dispute Resolution?

There are a number of situations which may benefit from family Alternative Dispute Resolution. It’s common for couples to undergo ADR to resolve divorce and separation issues, such as:

• Child custody and Child Arrangement Orders
• Spousal support
• Division of assets in divorce

It can also be an effective tool to resolve matters related to special guardianship orders, grandparents’ parental rights and other family disputes.

Here are some specific examples of when someone might need family ADR:

• A couple is getting divorced and they want to agree on a parenting plan for their children without having to go to court.
• A couple is getting divorced and they have a lot of assets to divide, but they want to avoid the lengthy and expensive court process.
• A grandparent is seeking visitation rights but the parent(s) of the grandchildren are opposed.
• A couple is having difficulty communicating and resolving disagreements about childcare, and they want the help of a neutral third party to facilitate communication and reach an agreement.

However, it is important to note that ADR is not always appropriate. For example, if there is a history of domestic violence or abuse in the relationship, or if one party is trying to coerce or manipulate the other party, then it may not be safe or effective.

If you are considering using Family ADR, it is important to talk to expert Family Dispute Solicitors to discuss your options and make sure that ADR is the right choice for you and your family.