Separation and divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially challenging experiences a person will go through. There are not only the immediate emotional impacts to deal with, but also important decisions around children, property, finances, and living arrangements. These matters can quickly become contentious — particularly when communication breaks down.
Family mediation offers an alternative to court proceedings that focuses on collaboration and practical outcomes. Rather than facing a lengthy legal battle, separating couples can use mediation to work through their differences with the support of a neutral third party.
At Hickman Family Lawyers, we encourage clients to consider family law mediation where appropriate. It’s a constructive, cost-effective, and often less stressful way to reach agreements after separation.
Whether you’re working through parenting plans, dividing assets, or clarifying financial responsibilities, family mediation allows both parties to be heard and to work toward a mutually acceptable outcome.
How Family Mediation Can Help You When Separating
Family mediation is a structured, voluntary process where separating couples meet (with or without family lawyers present) to resolve disputes with the help of a trained, impartial mediator. The goal is to reach agreements without the need to go to court.
This process is commonly used for resolving parenting arrangements, property division, and financial matters. It’s also a required step under Australian family law in most parenting cases before court proceedings can be commenced.
The core benefit of family mediation is that it allows both parties to stay in control of their own decisions, avoid the often adversarial nature of court, and move forward both more quickly and more affordably.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant advantages of family mediation.
Family Mediation is Cheaper
One of the most compelling reasons to consider family mediation when separating is the cost. Legal proceedings can be notoriously expensive, particularly if a case is drawn out or requires court appearances. When there are protracted negotiations, legal fees can quickly escalate — especially for complex financial matters or custody disputes.
By contrast, mediation tends to be significantly more affordable. The process is usually completed in a matter of sessions, which reduces the time lawyers need to be involved. Even where lawyers attend mediation, the overall cost is generally far lower than a full court hearing.
At Hickman Family Lawyers, we understand that financial strain is one of the greatest concerns for separating couples. Mediation helps minimise that burden so you can direct your energy and resources toward rebuilding your life — not funding a court battle.
If you’re worried about the potential costs of separation, exploring family mediation early can be a smart and financially responsible first step.
Family Mediation is Quicker
Family law disputes that end up in court can take months — even years — to resolve. The Australian family law system is heavily backlogged, and scheduling a final hearing may take weeks, if not months, particularly in busy courts. For separating couples, this delay can prolong stress, uncertainty, and emotional strain.
Mediation, on the other hand, can be scheduled and completed much more quickly. Once both parties are ready and agree to participate, a mediation session can often be arranged within weeks. Many disputes can be resolved in just one or two sessions, meaning you can walk away with a written agreement far sooner than you would through the courts.
This efficiency not only saves time but allows both parties to move forward sooner — whether that’s finalising parenting arrangements, buying a new home, or simply achieving peace of mind.
Our legal team support clients through the mediation process with the aim of resolving matters promptly and fairly.
Family Mediation is Confidential
Court proceedings are part of the public record. This means that the details of your family situation, financial matters, and personal disputes may become accessible in ways you hadn’t expected. For many people, especially those in smaller communities or high-profile positions, this lack of privacy can be uncomfortable or even damaging.
Mediation, in contrast, is entirely confidential. Discussions that occur during mediation are not disclosed to outsiders, and what is said cannot later be used in court (with a few legal exceptions). This confidentiality creates a safer space for open and honest dialogue.
It also allows both parties to explore options without fear of judgement or legal repercussions from things said in the spirit of negotiation. For many, this sense of safety makes it easier to have productive conversations and reach workable solutions.
Here at Hickman Family Lawyers, we value our clients’ privacy and understand how sensitive family matters can be. Mediation offers a more discreet path through separation, allowing you to protect your personal and family reputation during a challenging time.
Family Mediation Gives You Control
Perhaps one of the most empowering aspects of family mediation is that it puts you — not a judge — in control of the outcome. In court, a judge will decide the future of your property, your finances, and even the care of your children. These decisions are legally binding, and once made, they can be extremely difficult (and costly) to change.
Mediation flips the script by giving both parties the opportunity to discuss what they want and why. With the help of a neutral mediator, you can negotiate and agree on a solution that suits your family’s unique needs — not just a cookie-cutter legal decision.
You also have more say in the pace and structure of the process. Mediation can be paused, rescheduled, or adapted depending on the progress and comfort level of each party.
Our family lawyers in Perth encourage clients to explore mediation early to retain as much control over their future as possible. When you’re part of the solution, you’re far more likely to feel satisfied with the outcome.
Family Mediation is More Amicable
Separation doesn’t have to mean hostility. In fact, many people would prefer to part ways on respectful terms, especially when children are involved. Mediation supports a more amicable separation by encouraging communication and co-operation rather than conflict.
A mediator’s role is not to take sides, but to facilitate constructive discussion. They help each party to feel heard, clarify misunderstandings, and identify shared goals. The tone is usually calmer and less adversarial than what you might experience in having to take your divorce to court.
This collaborative approach can reduce emotional stress and set the stage for a healthier co-parenting or post-divorce relationship. For those with children or shared social circles, maintaining civil communication is particularly important for long-term wellbeing.
As divorce lawyers in Perth, we’ve seen first-hand how mediation can preserve important relationships and make separation less painful. Even when disagreements exist, a well-managed mediation process can bring people together to find common ground.
Family Mediation is Flexible
Unlike court proceedings, which follow strict timelines and procedures, mediation is incredibly adaptable. Sessions can be scheduled at times that suit both parties. You can meet in person, online, or even in separate rooms if needed (known as shuttle mediation).
The topics discussed in mediation are also flexible. You’re not limited to legal issues — you can also discuss practical arrangements, such as who keeps the pets, holiday schedules with the children, or how to handle shared business interests.
This flexibility allows mediation to address the full scope of separation — not just the legal stuff. And if circumstances change during the process, such as someone moving interstate or changing jobs, mediation can be adjusted accordingly.
At Hickman Family Lawyers, we tailor mediation support to each client’s individual needs. Whether you need a one-off session or ongoing mediation over time, we’re here to help you find the right path forward.
Family Mediation Reduces Conflict
Family law disputes can quickly become emotionally charged. Anger, sadness, mistrust, and fear are all common when a relationship ends — especially if there’s a history of tension or poor communication.
Mediation offers a gentler alternative than formal court proceedings. Because it focuses on mutual agreement rather than winning or losing, mediation helps reduce the emotional temperature. The presence of a neutral third party helps keep discussions on track and ensures both sides are heard respectfully.
Reducing conflict is especially important where children are involved. High-conflict separations can have lasting impacts on children’s wellbeing and development. Mediation encourages parents to focus on the best interests of the children and promotes cooperation in parenting arrangements.
At Hickman Family Lawyers, we are committed to helping families navigate separation with as little conflict as possible. Mediation allows you to prioritise the long-term wellbeing of everyone involved and build a foundation for future cooperation.
Family mediation is a powerful tool for separating couples looking for a better way forward. It’s quicker, cheaper, and less stressful than going to court — and most importantly, it gives you the chance to take control of your future. Whether you’re discussing parenting, property, or financial matters, mediation helps you find common ground with dignity and respect.
At Hickman Family Lawyers, our experienced team of family lawyers in Perth supports clients through every step of the mediation process. We work with you to understand your rights, clarify your options, and reach agreements that reflect your needs.
If you’re considering separation or have recently separated, get in touch with us to find out how family mediation can help you when separating.
