When families go through separation or divorce, emotions often run high, and the decisions to be made can feel overwhelming and mediation services are essential. At PFL Solicitors, we understand the emotional and legal complexities that come with family breakdowns. That’s why we offer compassionate, professional support through Family Law Mediation Services and the preparation and filing of Consent Orders, providing clients with a clear path to resolution without the added strain of a courtroom battle.
Family Law Courts in Australia now require parties to attend mediation services and attempt to resolve disputes through mediation prior to using the court process.
PFL Solicitors can support you through mediation services and help you formalise your agreements via consent orders — ensuring your rights are protected and your family’s future is secure.
What is Family Law Mediation?
Family law mediation services is a non-adversarial, confidential process where separating couples work with a neutral third-party mediator to reach mutual agreements regarding children, property, finances, and other shared concerns.
Mediation is:
- Voluntary: Both parties must agree to participate.
- Less adversarial: It avoids the conflict often associated with litigation.
- Cost-effective: It’s significantly less expensive than going to court.
- Faster: Disputes can often be resolved in weeks instead of months or years.
- Legally recognised: Agreements reached can be made legally binding via consent orders.
PFL Solicitors’ Role in Family Law Mediation
At PFL Solicitors, we understand that no two families are alike. That’s why we offer tailored mediation services and support to help you resolve disputes in a way that suits your specific circumstances.
1. Pre-Mediation Legal Advice
Before entering mediation services, it’s crucial to understand your legal position. Our solicitors will:
- Explain your rights and obligations.
- Help you prepare for mediation sessions.
- Outline likely outcomes based on your circumstances.
This preparation ensures you’re entering mediation services with confidence and a clear understanding of what to expect.
2. Support During and After Mediation
We offer ongoing legal support throughout the mediation process. You can:
- Consult us in between mediation services sessions.
- Have us review proposed agreements.
- Get clarity on any legal implications before signing anything.
This ensures you are not alone during the process and your best interests remain protected.
What is a Consent Order?
Once an agreement is reached in mediation services (or privately), it’s essential to make it legally binding. This is done through a Consent Order, which is a legal document approved by a family court.
A consent order can cover:
- Financial agreements: Division of property, savings, pensions, debts, spousal maintenance.
- Child arrangements: Where children will live, contact schedules, parental responsibilities.
Without a consent order, informal agreements may not be legally enforceable. This can lead to complications or disputes in the future.
How PFL Solicitors Can Help With Consent Orders
Obtaining a consent order is not just about submitting a form — it requires careful drafting, negotiation, and legal expertise to ensure your agreement is both fair and accepted by the court.
1. Drafting the Consent Order
Our family law solicitors will:
- Translate your verbal or written agreement into legal language.
- Ensure all aspects are covered to avoid ambiguity.
- Make sure the draft reflects what was agreed in mediation services.
2. Preparing the Statement of Information
Alongside the consent order, a Financial Statement must be filed, providing the court with financial disclosure from both parties.
We’ll:
- Help you accurately complete the form.
- Advise on what financial information must be disclosed.
- Ensure compliance with court requirements to avoid delays.
3. Filing and Court Approval
Once the documentation is ready:
- We file the consent order with the family court on your behalf.
- The court will review to ensure the agreement is fair and reasonable.
- If approved, it becomes a legally binding court order.
No court hearing is typically required unless the judge has specific questions or concerns.
Why Choose PFL Solicitors?
At PFL Solicitors, we pride ourselves on being empathetic, efficient, and experienced. Here’s why clients trust us with mediation services and consent order needs:
✅ Expertise
Our family law team has extensive experience handling all types of mediation services outcomes and consent orders — including high-net-worth separations, child arrangement complexities, and financial settlements.
✅ Client-Centred Approach
We listen carefully, communicate clearly, and prioritise your needs. We understand the emotional toll family disputes can have, and we work hard to keep the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
✅ Affordable Fixed Fees
Where possible, we offer fixed fees for consent order drafting and mediation services support, so you know what to expect with no hidden costs.
✅ Efficient Turnaround
We aim to draft and submit your consent order quickly and accurately, reducing delays and giving you peace of mind.