Expert family mediation in Newcastle with Gillard Family Lawyers Director Michelle Gillard
If you’re looking for a trusted mediator to help navigate family disputes, Michelle Gillard is a highly experienced family law mediator and accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP). Based at our Newcastle law firm, she also provides mediation services across the Central Coast and Hunter Valley.
Michelle understands that the family law process can be overwhelming. That’s why she keeps pre-mediation requirements to a minimum, ensuring a smoother, more efficient experience for clients and solicitors alike. With her extensive background as an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and an Independent Children’s Lawyer, she brings well-rounded expertise to every mediation.
A Professional & Comfortable Mediation Environment
For those booking family mediation in Newcastle, we offer exclusive access to our dedicated mediation rooms on Hunter Street. Our facility includes three breakout rooms, a boardroom, private kitchen facilities, and two bathrooms — all designed to create a calm, professional setting for constructive discussions. Convenient parking is also available nearby for added accessibility.
We require the following to conduct mediations:
Property Matters
- If the matter is not in court, a Position Paper, and a Balance Sheet.
- If the matter is in court, then only the court documents need to be provided.
Parenting Matters
- If the matter is not in court, a Position Paper.
- If the matter is in court, then only the court documents need to be provided.
- Michelle will request intake interviews with each of the parties.
Section 60I Certificates
Michelle is a qualified FDRP mediator located in Newcastle. She can issue Section 60I certificates if a party refuses to participate, the case is not suitable for mediation or at the conclusion of the mediation.
Half day mediations – 2pm to 5pm
Our fee is $1,750 + GST and includes intake interviews, reading background material, conducting the mediation, use of our mediation rooms and afternoon tea.
Full day mediations – 10am – 4pm
Our fee is $2,750 + GST and includes intake interviews, reading background material, conducting the mediation, use of our mediation rooms and lunch.
Other Facilities/Inclusions
Guest Wi-Fi is available
Wi-Fi login details are provided in our Mediation rooms.
Self-serve tea & coffee
Self-serve tea and coffee facilities are available to all parties and are located in the kitchenette.
Catering services
Catering is supplied and included in your booking.
Access to bathroom facilities
Our Mediation rooms offer two maintained and clean bathrooms.
Location: 735 Hunter Street, Newcastle West
Use the booking system below to book your mediation session now
Why choose our family law mediators in Newcastle?
Mediation is a structured yet flexible process where a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps individuals resolve family law disputes without going to court. It is commonly used to settle parenting arrangements, property settlements, and other family-related matters in a cooperative and cost-effective way.
Key Benefits of Mediation
- More Affordable Than Litigation – For clients, mediation is significantly less expensive than taking a case to court. With fewer legal procedures and less preparation required, costs remain manageable for all parties involved.
- A Faster Resolution – While court cases can take months or even years to resolve, mediation is often completed within weeks, allowing families to move forward sooner.
- Confidential and Private – Unlike court proceedings, which are public records, mediation remains a private process. This ensures that personal matters remain confidential and discussions stay within the mediation setting.
- Greater Control Over the Outcome – Instead of leaving decisions in the hands of a judge, mediation empowers individuals to negotiate and agree on terms that best suit their circumstances.
- Preserving Family Relationships – Mediation encourages open communication, reducing hostility and helping parties maintain a civil relationship—particularly important for families with children.
- A Lasting, Voluntary Agreement – Because mediation is a cooperative process, parties are more likely to adhere to agreements, reducing the likelihood of future disputes.
Is Mediation Right for Your Situation?
Mediation is an effective approach for many families, but it is not suitable in all circumstances. If family violence is a concern or there are significant power imbalances, additional measures may be needed to ensure a safe and fair process. Consulting a family law solicitor can help determine whether mediation is the right path for your case.
What Happens After Mediation?
If an agreement is reached, it should be formalised to ensure it is legally binding. One way to do this is through Consent Orders, which a family lawyer can prepare to protect the terms of your agreement. If mediation does not result in a resolution, court proceedings may be necessary to settle the dispute.
At Gillard Family Lawyers, we provide expert assistance in all aspects of mediation. Our Director, Michelle Gillard, is a nationally accredited mediator and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) with extensive experience in facilitating parenting and property mediations. Our skilled team of family law mediators is here to support you through every step of the process, whether you’re seeking guidance, mediation services, or legal representation.
Contact us today to discuss how mediation can help you achieve a fair and effective resolution.
FAQs about family law mediation in Newcastle
How is mediation different from family and relationship counselling services?
Mediation focuses on resolving disputes by helping parties reach practical agreements, such as parenting arrangements or property settlements, whereas family and relationship counselling services aim to improve relationships and emotional well-being. Mediation is structured around legal and practical outcomes, while counselling supports the emotional and psychological health of individuals and families.
Do I have to attend mediation before going to family court?
In most family law dispute cases, the Family Law Act requires parties to attempt mediation before applying to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, especially for parenting arrangements. Exceptions exist, such as cases involving family violence or urgent matters, where mediation may not be suitable.
What happens during a mediation session?
A mediation session is a structured discussion facilitated by a neutral mediator. The mediator assists the parties involved in negotiating and reaching agreements on issues such as parenting plans, financial settlements, and other family disputes. The mediation process encourages open communication, ensuring that each party has an opportunity to express their concerns while working towards a resolution.
Can mediation help with parenting plans?
Yes, mediation is often used to establish parenting plans that outline arrangements for children, including custody, visitation, and decision-making responsibilities. These agreements can later be formalised through consent orders, making them legally binding.
What if mediation doesn’t resolve the dispute?
If mediation does not lead to an agreement, parties may need to pursue further dispute resolution services or proceed with court action. A mediator can issue a Section 60I certificate, which is required before filing a court application in parenting matters.
Can I bring a solicitor to mediation?
Yes, you can bring a solicitor to a mediation session for legal support and guidance. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure any agreements made align with legal requirements.
Is legal aid available for mediation?
In some cases, legal aid may be available to help cover the costs of dispute resolution services, particularly for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
What if there are concerns about family violence?
If family violence is a concern, mediation may not be appropriate, or additional safeguards may be necessary. Mediators assess the suitability of mediation on a case-by-case basis and can take steps to ensure the safety of all parties involved.
How can mediation benefit my family relationship?
Mediation can improve communication between parties, helping to create a more cooperative family relationship after separation. By reducing conflict, it can also lessen the emotional and psychological health impact on children.
How do I prepare for a mediation session?
Before attending mediation, gather relevant documents, think about possible solutions, and consider obtaining legal advice. Understanding your priorities and potential compromises can make the mediation process more effective.
If you have further questions or would like to book a mediation session, contact our team today.