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Resolving Disputes with Expertise & Empathy

Mediation Specialist with 25+ years resolving disputes for families and businesses Australia-wide.

Discover a Better Way to Resolve Disputes

Mediation is a collaborative, cost‐effective, and confidential process designed to help parties resolve conflicts outside of the courtroom. With over 25 years of legal experience and a mediation practice honed since 2001, I provide a neutral and supportive environment where each voice is heard. My approach is tailored to your unique situation—helping you move from conflict to constructive solutions while preserving relationships and empowering informed decisions.

claire smith mediation specialist headshot

Meet Claire Smith

I’ve been a lawyer since 1988, qualified as a solicitor in Scotland and as both a solicitor and barrister in Australia. My extensive background in law and dispute resolution uniquely positions me to guide you through even the most challenging conflicts. As an Accredited Mediator under the National Mediator Accreditation Standards (NMAS) and a Family Law Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FLDRP), I am committed to a fair, respectful, and transparent process. Whether you’re dealing with family matters, business disputes, or any other conflict, I’m here to help you find a lasting resolution.

Claire Smith

Mediation Specialist

What Mediation I Offer

I bring a wealth of expertise to a wide range of dispute areas. My mediation services include:

Family – Children

Focusing on the best interests of children, I develop Parenting Plans that provide a cooperative, integrative, and child-centred approach to co-parenting. Having worked with families since Parenting Plans came into effect in 2006—and as one of the first Government-appointed Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners—I also draw on insights from Professor Jennifer McIntosh’s research on child welfare after separation.

Family - Property

With deep knowledge of Family Law property matters, I guide parties to reach fair, equitable outcomes through a comprehensive assessment of assets, liabilities, and future needs.

Wills and Estates

I provide clear, compassionate guidance in disputes involving wills, trusts, and estates, backed by extensive experience in Family Provision Act matters.

Small Business Disputes

Assisting entrepreneurs and business partners in resolving conflicts that impact both personal relationships and business operations.

Employment

Facilitating open dialogue to resolve workplace disagreements, I have extensive experience handling both two‐party and multi‐party disputes. I have also mediated inter‐employee conflicts as well as manager‐employee disputes, helping to restore a positive working environment.

Building Disputes

Addressing construction and building conflicts with an emphasis on timely, equitable solutions.

Flexible Mediation Options

Which Pathway is Right for You?

Face to Face

In-Person Mediation in Northern NSW

I'm available to travel anywhere within the Northern NSW region (please note that additional travel costs may apply depending on the location).

$2,800/day

Online

Online Mediation

For your convenience, mediation sessions can also be conducted virtually, ensuring accessibility regardless of where you are.

$2,800/day

What my clients say

Trusted by families.

Claire's approach put my children's well-being at the heart of the process. She navigated sensitive family dynamics with grace and ensured every decision truly reflected our kids' needs.

Mum of 2

Family Children

In the midst of our separation, Claire's mediation provided clarity and fairness in dividing our property. Her balanced and insightful guidance helped us reach an agreement that both parties respected.

Couple Navigating Separation

Family Property

After our divorce, we faced complex issues involving wills and estate planning. Claire's expert guidance made resolving these sensitive matters fair and efficient, giving us confidence in our next steps.

Client Navigating Separation after Divorce

Wills & Estates

Facing a challenging workplace dispute, I found Claire's mediation process invaluable. Her clear communication and balanced approach restored respectful dialogue and helped our team move forward together.

Client

Employment

As a small business owner, time and clarity are crucial. Claire's efficient mediation not only resolved our dispute swiftly but also preserved vital business relationships for the long term.

Small Business Owner

Small Business Disputes

When a building dispute threatened to escalate, Claire's expertise helped us navigate the complexities with a focus on fairness and practicality. Her balanced approach ensured our family's best interests were always a priority.

Northern Rivers Client

Building Disputes

Looking for a respectful way to resolve your dispute? We're here to help you find a path forward through mediation.

Favourite Quote

“Out beyond ideas of
Right doing and Wrong doing
There is a field
I’ll meet you there”

— Rumi
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