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Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is often the first step for parents trying to resolve disputes about parenting arrangements after separation. It’s a structured process where a neutral Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) helps you and the other parent work toward an agreement.
If you’re about to attend an FDR session, you might be feeling a mix of emotions—nervous, hopeful, or even unsure of what to expect. That’s completely normal. Let’s walk through what FDR is, how to prepare, and how to make the most of the process.
What is Family Dispute Resolution?
FDR is a form of mediation specifically designed to help parents resolve parenting disputes. It’s often required before you can apply to the Family Court for parenting orders, unless your case involves urgent issues like family violence or child safety concerns.
The goal of FDR is to reach an agreement that’s in the best interests of the children while reducing conflict between parents.
What can be Discussed at FDR?
FDR sessions can address a wide range of parenting issues, including:
- Living arrangements and time spent with each parent
- Communication between parents and with the children
- Education, health, and extracurricular activities
- Holiday and special occasion arrangements
FDR is focused on practical solutions, so it’s not about rehashing past conflicts—it’s about looking forward.
How to Prepare for Family Dispute Resolution
Preparation is key to feeling confident and productive during your FDR session. Here’s how to get ready:
- Know Your Priorities
What outcomes are most important to you? Think about what will work best for your children and focus on the big picture, rather than minor details.
- Put the Children First
FDR is all about what’s in the best interests of the children, so keep their needs and wellbeing at the forefront of your discussions.
- Be Open to Compromise
FDR works best when both parties are willing to negotiate. While you don’t have to agree on everything, being flexible can help you reach a workable solution.
- Bring Relevant Information
Have details ready about your children’s schedules, school commitments, and any other factors relevant to the discussion. This helps keep the conversation focused and productive.
- Consider Practicalities
Think about what’s realistic in terms of travel, work schedules, and the children’s routines. Agreements that work in practice are more likely to succeed long-term.
- Seek Advice Beforehand
While FDRPs don’t provide legal advice, it’s a good idea to speak with a family lawyer beforehand. They can help you understand your rights, obligations, and what to expect.
What Happens During an FDR Session?
Here’s a general outline of how FDR sessions work:
- Initial Screening
Before the session, the FDRP will assess whether FDR is appropriate for your situation. They’ll consider factors like safety concerns, communication dynamics, and whether both parties are willing to participate.
- The Mediation Session
During the session, the FDRP facilitates discussions to help both parties identify issues and explore potential solutions. In some cases, you may be in separate rooms (shuttle mediation) if direct communication isn’t practical.
- Agreement
If you reach an agreement, it can be documented in a Parenting Plan. While a Parenting Plan isn’t legally binding, it demonstrates a commitment to co-parenting and can be formalised later if needed.
- What If There’s No Agreement?
If no agreement is reached, the FDRP will issue a Section 60I Certificate, which allows you to apply to the court for parenting orders.
What if There are Safety Concerns?
If you have concerns about family violence or your safety, let the FDRP know immediately. They can make arrangements to ensure your safety, such as conducting shuttle mediation or deciding that FDR isn’t appropriate for your case.
It’s important to remember that your safety—and the safety of your children—always comes first.
Tips for a Productive FDR Session
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of FDR:
- Stay Calm and Focused: Keep the discussion about the children and avoid getting drawn into personal conflicts.
- Be Respectful: Even if emotions are running high, treating the other parent with respect can lead to better outcomes.
- Write Down Your Goals: Having a clear list of what you want to discuss can help keep you on track.
- Listen Actively: Understanding the other parent’s perspective can help identify solutions that work for everyone.
How Brisbane Family Law Centre can Help
At Brisbane Family Law Centre, we understand that preparing for FDR can feel overwhelming. While the FDRP can’t provide legal advice, our experienced family lawyers can help you:
- Understand your rights and responsibilities under the Family Law Act (1975).
- Clarify your priorities and develop a plan for the session.
- Review and formalise agreements reached during FDR.
We’ll equip you with the tools and knowledge to approach FDR with confidence, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your children.
Final Thoughts
Family Dispute Resolution is an opportunity to resolve parenting disputes in a collaborative and child-focused way. With the right preparation and mindset, it can help you find practical solutions that support your children’s wellbeing and reduce conflict between parents.
If you’re preparing for FDR and need advice, Brisbane Family Law Centre is here to help. We’ll guide you each step of the way so you can approach the process with clarity and confidence.
