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Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome — this page is here to answer the most common questions people have about private mediation and coaching. My aim is to give you clarity, build trust, and help you decide if this is the right fit for your situation.
❓ FAQ Section
Q1: Are you an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)?
No, I am not an accredited FDRP. This means I cannot issue s 60I Certificates under the Family Law Act. My services are focused on private, non-legal mediation and conflict coaching. I help families, couples, and individuals resolve disputes and strengthen communication without needing to go through the court system.
Q2: Can you help families who are still together (intact families)?
Yes, absolutely. Many intact families use mediation to improve communication, reduce tension, and create healthier dynamics before conflicts escalate.
Q3: Can you help separated parents?
Yes, I work with separated parents who want to avoid the court system and resolve matters privately. While I cannot provide a s 60I Certificate, I can help you create practical parenting plans and agreements that support cooperation.
Q4: What's the difference between private mediation and FDR?
Here's a quick comparison:
Q5: Are agreements legally binding?

Agreements reached in private mediation are not automatically legally binding. However, you can choose to formalise them with legal advice or through the court system if you wish.
Q6: What if we can't agree?
Attempt Mediation
We'll work through the process together to find common ground.
If Agreement Can't Be Reached
If an agreement can't be reached in private mediation, I can provide referrals to accredited FDR practitioners or lawyers if you need to explore other options.
Q7: Do you provide legal advice?
No, I do not provide legal advice. My role is to guide the mediation process, improve communication, and help you explore solutions. If you need legal advice, I encourage you to consult with a lawyer alongside mediation.
Q8: How long does mediation take?
Each situation is unique. Some families resolve issues in one or two sessions, while others may need more time. I'll recommend an approach tailored to your needs.
Q9: What kinds of conflict do you work with?
Intact Families
Intact families and couples wanting healthier communication
Separated Parents
Separated parents seeking cooperation outside court
Extended Family
Extended family and intergenerational disputes
Workplace
Workplace or community conflicts
High-Conflict
High-conflict personality dynamics
Q10: What if we want to go to court later?
If you decide to pursue court action later, you'll need to see an accredited FDRP to obtain a s 60I Certificate. The work we do here, however, often makes that step unnecessary — and if it does happen, you'll already be better prepared.
See below for more about this process.
FAQ Section
Q: Do I have to go to court to make it binding?
No. Consent Orders are usually processed “on the papers.” This means you don’t need to attend a hearing — the court simply reviews and approves the agreement you’ve submitted.
Q: What’s the difference between a Parenting Plan and Consent Orders?
A Parenting Plan is flexible and not legally enforceable. Consent Orders are enforceable by law and carry the same weight as a court order.
Q: What about financial matters?
Financial/property agreements can be made binding either by Consent Orders or by a Binding Financial Agreement (BFA). BFAs require each party to get independent legal advice before signing.
Q: Why make agreements legally binding?
Binding agreements provide certainty and enforceability. If one party doesn’t follow through, the other can rely on legal enforcement.
Q: Can we still keep things informal?
Absolutely. Some families prefer the flexibility of Parenting Plans or informal agreements. The choice is always yours.
Closing Reassurance
“Every family is different. I can help you understand your options so that the agreements you reach in mediation support lasting peace and clarity — with or without a legal stamp of approval.”
Still Have Questions?
Closing Note: If you still have questions not covered here, please reach out — I'd love to have a conversation about how private mediation might support you.