Resolution of family disputes outside the court process.

Where appropriate, as per Part 2, the Family Law Act places an emphasis on out of court resolution/settlement of family disputes and mentions two specific processes.

The Ministry of Justice comments as follows on Part 2:

Commentary

This Part encourages the use of out-of-court dispute resolution processes—family dispute resolution—where appropriate. It includes obligations to disclose information to ensure that family dispute resolution is effective. It also includes obligations on family justice professionals to assess for family violence to ensure that the use of family dispute resolution processes is appropriate.

It clearly states that agreements may be used to resolve disputes under the FLA and sets the stage for out-of-court dispute resolution.

Family dispute resolution offers simpler, speedier, and less costly ways to resolve post-separation disputes and will further the best interests of children.