15 July2012
Would-be litigants avoid Family Court backlog
Ordinary people are taking control of their legal matters in an effort to short-circuit the lengthy delays caused by growing backlogs in the court systems.
Would-be litigants are opting to avoid court waiting lists of up to two years by using dispute resolution services as a quicker, less expensive and more amicable alternative to Queensland’s under-resourced court system.
Dispute resolution centre Brisbane Mediations is offering free advice through a new initiative aimed at alleviating some of the Family Court’s backlog after recent reports that litigants were waiting up to a year just to have their disputes heard.
Around the table with Mike is a free initiative introduced by Brisbane Mediations where anyone can talk to an accredited family dispute resolution practitioner and psychologist free of charge to obtain initial advice on dispute resolution.
Private mediation services assist parties in reaching voluntary resolutions that can be formalised as a binding court order and, unlike courts, utilise psychologists, social workers, solicitors, barristers and accountants, who can reduce the stress involved in litigation.
Brisbane Mediations Principal Mike Emerson said by opting for a private mediation, people could schedule mediations at short notice and avoid the costly court process, which has seen families lose their homes to fund legal bills.
“Although private mediation does involve an expense, it is by far more financially beneficial to avoid the courts,” Mr Emerson said.
“Many people who have had no experience in dealing with the law don’t realise that there is an alternative that can resolve their case extremely quickly, often reaching an agreement by the end of the day.
“Private mediation can save you from putting your whole life on hold or having to subject yourself or your children to the trauma of preparing for, and giving evidence in, court.”
People wanting to explore mediation can access it through their lawyer or approach a mediation agency directly.
Mr Emerson said the Around the table with Mike initiative would help introduce people to alternative dispute resolution in a friendly and relaxed environment.
The initiative will be held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 4pm until 6pm beginning 18 July 2012.
About Brisbane Mediations
The Brisbane Mediations panel has over 30 registered family dispute resolution practitioners including psychologists, social workers, solicitors, barristers and accountants. Brisbane Mediations is able to handle a variety of mediations including relationship, financial, workplace, organisational and child-inclusive mediations.
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