Dianne and Alina explore a commonly misunderstood fact, mediation can still be an option even when a Family Violence Order (FVO) is in place. With appropriate safeguards, Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) can proceed safely and respectfully, helping families make parenting arrangements that prioritise the child’s best interests. While the presence of a protection order signals risk, it doesn’t automatically exclude FDR, especially when the law encourages meaningful, safe contact between children and both parents. This episode wraps up the series by highlighting how even in complex situations, mediation remains a valuable, structured path forward.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina debunk the common belief that separation inevitably leads to court. While emotions can run high and threats of litigation are often made, the vast majority of family law matters are resolved without ever stepping into a courtroom. They explain how Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), alongside legal negotiation, helps most families reach agreements, saving time, money and emotional energy. Court is usually a last resort, not the default.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina break down what “full and frank disclosure” really means in a financial separation and when formal discovery might be unnecessary. Whether you’re working with a mediator or a lawyer, both parties must share enough information to make informed decisions. The key difference? FDR mediation can achieve the same legally binding outcomes without the costly and often excessive discovery process.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina remind listeners that you are the one in charge when working with a lawyer. Your lawyer acts under your instructions, not the other way around. They explore how clearly communicating your goals and boundaries helps you stay in control of both the process and the costs, leading to better outcomes in your family law matter.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina discuss why lawyers sometimes recommend government funded Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) services, despite long waitlists. While you wait (often two months or more), progress stalls, tensions rise and disputes can deepen. Lawyers may indirectly benefit from delays because prolonged conflict means more billable work. Understanding this dynamic can help you make more informed choThis podcast is designed to provide information and guidance on family separation, helping you explore your options in a clear and approachable way.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.au

Contact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina clarify that you’re not required by law to involve lawyers or barristers to participate in Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) mediation. FDR practitioners are specially trained in family law and conflict resolution, focusing first and foremost on the best interests of the children. They help both parties communicate and find practical, tailored solutions without getting caught up in legal battles.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dianne and Alina explore why starting with Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Early mediation helps reduce conflict, supports healthier communication and keeps the process non adversarial, something even lawyers acknowledge. It’s a calmer, more constructive way to begin the separation journey.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many people assume lawyers decide if mediation is appropriate, but that’s not true. In this episode, Dianne and Alina explain that under the Family Law Act, only accredited Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Practitioners can make that call. As impartial professionals who hear both sides early on, FDR mediators are best placed to assess whether mediation is suitable, safe and practical.

This podcast is designed to provide information and guidance on family separation, helping you explore your options in a clear and approachable way.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mediation is often unavoidable in separation and unless there are serious safety or practicality concerns. In this episode, Dianne and Alina discuss why you’ll likely need to engage in Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) at some stage and how choosing mediation early can save you tens of thousands in legal fees.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting a letter from your ex’s lawyer can feel intimidating but here’s the truth: You don’t have to respond right away, hire a lawyer or meet their demands on their timeline. In this episode, Dianne and Alina explain why it’s okay to pause, take a breath, and explore your options. Support from a Family Dispute Resolution professionals can help you make informed, confident decisions on your terms.

Contact Dianne Loveday at Bayside Mediation | www.baysidemediation.com.auContact Paula Appelhans at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-appelhans/

Disclaimer & Note from the Hosts:

The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. The views, stories, and insights expressed in this episode reflect the personal professional experiences and observations of Paula Applehans (Family Lawyer) and Diane Loveday (Mediator) working within the Australian legal and mediation spaces. Every family law matter is unique; please consult Paul or Dianne for advice specific to your personal situation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.