Entries by osweb

AVOIDING FAILURE IN MEDIATIONS FROM THE OUTSET

Most dictionary definitions of failure refer to a lack of success. Of course there are degrees of success so perhaps “failure” is not quite an appropriate descriptive term. In my experience few mediations result in “failure” or to term it more appropriately, a lack of success. An element of success is prominent in most mediations.

I HAVE SEPARATED – WHAT DO I DO NOW?

The experience of separation is extremely daunting and can be a time when uncertainty and anxiety about your future impacts on your health and well being. Whilst we can’t resolve how you are feeling about your separation, we certainly won’t make it worse.

Family Courts in Crisis in Queensland

The Family Courts are reported to be at a crisis point in Queensland because of a shortage of Judges. The Family Law Act/Courts recently celebrated 40 years of operation.  At lot has changed in 40 years and whilst there have been significant amendments during those 40 years, there remains much work to be done.  Not […]

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT INQUIRY INTO SURROGACY

The Federal Attorney General today (3 December 2015) announced that he has requested that the Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs to undertake an inquiry into surrogacy arrangements. The terms of reference for the inquiry are set out below.

AMENDMENTS TO FAMILY LAW ACT

The Attorney General will be introducing new measures to provide greater protections for Australian affected by family violence to improve the response of the family law system to family violence together with other changes to the Family Law system.

Mediation Creates Outcomes that a Court Can’t

Mediation Outcomes – Better than Court Outcomes During the last week I have conducted two mediations that have been quite challenging, particularly for the parties involved.  In both cases the parties were able to resolve very important issues which, unless resolved, would have had a significant impact on the lives of both families. I have […]

Divorce Conflict and Children

I have probably written a number of blogs on why children should be removed from conflict.  I recently read an article on the web page of the American Psychological Association entitled “An overview of the Psychological Literature on the Effects of Divorce on Children”.  Whilst it relates to the effect of divorce on children it […]