Legally Assisted Family Dispute Resolution (LAFDR)
The statistics presented on this page are drawn from an academic study published in 2026 that examined the experiences of LAFDR clients.
Separating from a partner can involve difficult decisions about children, finances and the future. Family Dispute Resolution can help people discuss these issues and try to reach an agreement without going to court.
For some people, having a lawyer involved can provide additional legal advice, support and confidence throughout the process.
What is Family Dispute Resolution?
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a form of mediation for people who have separated.
An independent and accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner helps participants discuss the issues, consider different options and try to reach an agreement.
FDR may be used to discuss:
- Parenting arrangements
- Property and financial matters
- Other practical issues following separation
The mediator does not represent either person or provide legal advice. Before FDR begins, the service will assess whether it is suitable for your circumstances.
What is Legally Assisted Family Dispute Resolution
Legally Assisted Family Dispute Resolution (LAFDR) involves lawyers supporting participants through the FDR process.
Through the partnership between commUnity+ Legal and Sunshine Family Relationship Centre, eligible clients may receive legal assistance at no additional cost. Fees may apply for the FDR service and are generally based on income.
Before the session
Your lawyer can:
- Help you understand your legal position
- Explain your options and possible outcomes
- Help you prepare for the mediation
- Discuss any concerns you have about participating safely
During the session
Your lawyer can:
- Provide legal advice
- Help you understand and respond to proposals
- Support you to communicate your position
- Help address legal issues that arise during the discussion
The Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner remains independent and manages the mediation process.
After the session
Depending on the outcome and the assistance available, your lawyer may:
- Explain what the agreement means
- Discuss options for documenting the agreement
- Advise you about parenting plans or consent orders
- Provide information or referrals about possible next steps
Are agreements legally binding?
An agreement reached during LAFDR is not automatically legally enforceable.
For parenting matters, an agreement may be recorded in a parenting plan. A parenting plan is not legally enforceable. If appropriate, participants may seek legal advice about applying to seek legal advice about options to formalise the agreement.
Your lawyer can explain the available options based on your circumstances.
Benefits for LAFDR clients
Disputes resolved
Around 4 in 5 clients said they reached an agreement thanks to their LAFDR session.
“It was a good outcome. I was actually really surprised with the outcome.” – LAFDR client
“I was pretty happy and relieved that we got something out of it, that it was productive.” – LAFDR client.
Confidence boosted
A lawyer in the room with you means you can ask them questions and draw on their knowledge during the process. It means you can communicate more clearly and confidently during the mediation.
More than 90 per cent of clients said they felt that having a lawyer present helped them understand their position.
Money saved
For many people, going to court is simply unaffordable. LAFDR is a way of receiving legal support without the hefty price tag.
Around 4 in 5 clients said they thought LAFDR helped them avoid high legal costs.
Private lawyers and private mediation can easily cost thousands of dollars. However, our partner Sunshine Family Relationship Centre sets a fee based on your income, making the entire process significantly cheaper than private legal representation.
Safety assured
A lawyer can also provide you with an added sense of safety and security. Most of commUnity+ Legal’s LAFDRs are conducted via Zoom, so you are not in the same place as the other person.
When appropriate and safe, with all parties’ consent, LAFDRs may be conducted in-person.
Almost all clients surveyed who had experienced abuse in their relationship said they felt safe during the LAFDR process.
“My lawyers were looking out for me.” – LAFDR client
Is LAFDR right for me?
LAFDR is not automatically available in every matter. Before the service proceeds, commUnity+ Legal and Sunshine Family Relationship Centre will consider matters such as:
- The issues you need help resolving
- Your eligibility for legal assistance
- Whether FDR is appropriate for your circumstances
- Any family violence or safety concerns
- Whether both participants can take part safely and fairly
- Any urgent legal issues
Contacting us does not guarantee that your matter will be accepted for LAFDR – this decision is ultimately up to Sunshine Family Relationship Centre.
Find out more
If you would like to find out more about LAFDR and how it could help you, you can contact commUnity+ Legal or contact Relationships Australia Victoria.