Lawyers savour mediation challenge

Sarah Little (left), Rob Handley and Raukawa Simon are Wanganui's new approved mediators. Photo/Supplied

Three Wanganui lawyers have signed up to a new mediation system aimed at resolving parental disputes.

The Family Justice System for parenting issues will be introduced from the end of the month with an emphasis on out-of-court resolution and early settlements.

The use of mediation services is a key part of the scheme, with the hope disputes can be settled without the need for appearances in court.

Wanganui lawyers Sarah Little of Horsley Christie, Raukawa Simon of Stephen Ross & Raukawa Simon, and Rob Handley of Robert Handley & Co have been registered on the mediation panel of the New Zealand Law Society and been approved as family dispute resolution mediators.

All three are looking forward to the challenges ahead and feel confident they will be able to assist families where there is no agreement on child-care arrangements.

Parents or caregivers will now be unable to file proceedings in the court regarding parental and guardianship issues without completing mediation or being exempted from it.

The fee payable for mediation is usually about $900 but many parents in the Wanganui area are likely to be eligible for government funding. Those not receiving state support can access mediation through a supplier at the same cost or through a private arrangement with a mediator. It is anticipated that the cost is likely to be less expensive than retaining a lawyer and proceeding to a court hearing.

Parents who cannot resolve arrangements regarding the children should contact their own lawyer, court staff, CLAW or Citizens Advice or any of the three local mediators.