Family Mediation in Tamworth: A Peaceful Path to Resolving Parenting & Property Disputes
Helping Families Move Forward—Without the Stress of Court
When relationships break down, the emotional toll can be overwhelming—especially when children, finances, and shared property are involved. But not every family dispute needs to escalate into a courtroom battle. For many families in Tamworth, mediation offers a more constructive, cost-effective, and compassionate way forward.
At Lyon Legal Services, we provide Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) and private mediation services tailored to the needs of separating couples. Whether you’re navigating parenting arrangements or dividing assets, our team helps you reach practical agreements in a calm, confidential, and future-focused environment.
What Is Family Mediation?
Family mediation is a structured process designed to help separated or divorcing couples resolve disagreements around:
- Parenting arrangements (custody, visitation, school holidays, birthdays, etc.)
- Property division (real estate, vehicles, superannuation, debts, and business assets)
- Communication and co-parenting strategies
Led by an independent, accredited mediator, the process encourages open dialogue, mutual respect, and solution-oriented outcomes. Mediation is voluntary, confidential, and non-adversarial, making it a preferred alternative to litigation.
At Lyon Legal Services, our mediation sessions are facilitated by Jason Sutton, an experienced Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) and AMDRAS-accredited Mediator. With both professional expertise and lived experience, Jason brings empathy, clarity, and structure to every session.
Why Choose Mediation Over Court?
Mediation empowers families to make decisions that suit their unique circumstances—without relying on a judge who doesn’t know them. It’s a process that prioritizes collaboration, not confrontation.
Key Benefits of Family Mediation:
- ✅ Faster resolution than court proceedings
- ✅ Lower legal costs
- ✅ Reduced emotional stress
- ✅ Child-focused outcomes
- ✅ Greater control over decisions
- ✅ Flexible scheduling
- ✅ Can result in Parenting Plans or Consent Orders without litigation
For property disputes, mediation allows couples to reach fair agreements on asset division, debt responsibility, and financial arrangements—without the delays and expenses of formal court hearings.
Parenting Mediation in Tamworth
Parenting after separation can be challenging, especially when communication breaks down. Our parenting mediation services help parents create workable, child-centered agreements that support stability and wellbeing.
We assist with:
- Living arrangements and custody schedules
- School holidays, travel, and special occasions
- Communication protocols and changeovers
- Safety concerns and special needs
- Drafting Parenting Plans or preparing for Consent Orders
Whether both parties are cooperative or communication is strained, we offer flexible formats—including shuttle mediation—to ensure everyone feels heard and respected.
Property Settlement Mediation
Dividing property after separation can be complex and emotionally charged. Our property mediation services help couples reach fair and practical agreements on:
- Real estate and mortgage responsibilities
- Vehicles, household contents, and valuables
- Superannuation and retirement funds
- Business assets and investments
- Liabilities, loans, and debt division
We can work alongside your solicitor or help you prepare a Heads of Agreement to take to your lawyer for Consent Orders or Binding Financial Agreements.
Why Mediate with Lyon Legal Services?
We’re not a big-city firm offering generic solutions. We’re a local, community-focused team that understands the unique challenges families face in regional NSW.
Our Mediation Team Includes:
- Jason Sutton – FDRP, AMDRAS-accredited Mediator & Parenting Coordinator
- Neurelle Lyon – Principal Solicitor, FDRP, Collaborative Practitioner with dual Master’s degrees in Family Law and Family Dispute Resolution
- Monique Morrison – Family Lawyer supporting mediation follow-ups and legal documentation
- Tamaris Hoffman – Legal Assistant ensuring smooth scheduling and communication
- Daniel & Millie – Joining soon to expand our capacity and support more families across Tamworth and Inverell
We listen. We care. And we’re committed to helping you move forward with dignity and clarity.
Book a Mediation in Tamworth or Inverell
We offer both Legal Aid-funded and Private Mediation services, depending on your eligibility and preferences.
Tamworth Office
3A Darling Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 (02) 6764 5000 0437 170 302
Inverell Office
5/23 Lawrence Street, Inverell NSW 2360 (02) 6722 4898
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?
FDR is a legally recognized mediation process that helps separated couples resolve parenting and property disputes outside of court. It’s facilitated by an accredited FDR Practitioner and may be required before applying for parenting orders.
2. Is mediation legally binding?
Mediation itself is not legally binding, but agreements reached can be formalized into Parenting Plans, Consent Orders, or Binding Financial Agreements with legal assistance.
3. How long does family mediation take?
Most sessions last between 1–3 hours. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.
4. Can I bring a lawyer to mediation?
Yes. You can attend mediation with your lawyer, or consult them before and after sessions. We also work collaboratively with solicitors to ensure agreements are legally sound.
5. What if we’re not on speaking terms?
We offer shuttle mediation, where parties are in separate rooms and the mediator communicates between them. This ensures safety and comfort while still working toward resolution.
6. Is mediation suitable for property disputes?
Absolutely. Mediation is an effective way to resolve property division, debt allocation, and financial settlements without going to court.
7. What happens if mediation fails?
If mediation doesn’t result in agreement, you may proceed to court. However, attending FDR is often a prerequisite before filing for parenting orders in family court.
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