Empowering Families to Move Forward
Expert family dispute resolution informed by experience, compassion and judicial insight.
Separation and family conflict can feel overwhelming. Resolve Forward provides tailored, out-of-court pathways to help families navigate separation, divorce, parenting arrangements and complex financial or property matters with clarity, care and respect — while reducing conflict and supporting lasting outcomes.
The practice is led by Joanne Chayna, a Legal Practitioner and Accredited Specialist in Family Law who has worked exclusively in family law since 2000. Joanne brings over two decades of specialised experience, combining deep legal expertise with a compassionate, practical approach, helping families feel heard, informed and supported.
For more than 17 years, Joanne served as a Judicial Registrar in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, including in one of the country's most heavily litigated registries. This judicial experience provides unique insight into how disputes are considered by the Court — and how, in many cases, families can be guided toward more cost effective and less adversarial resolution outside the courtroom.
This rare combination of legal, judicial and dispute resolution experience enables Joanne to support clients with confidence, clarity and empathy at every stage of the process.
Joanne Chayna
Director and Principal
Family Law Dispute Resolution Specialist
How We Can Assist You
We specialise in helping families navigate legal challenges whether the issue involves parenting arrangements or financial matters. Our mission is to deliver respectful, streamlined solutions that reduce the emotional and financial toll of going to court through:
- •Mediation (including Child inclusive mediation)
- •Family Dispute Resolution
- •Parenting Coordination
- •Collaborative Coaching; and
- •Arbitration
Mediation
Professional mediation services to help resolve family disputes in a collaborative, non-adversarial environment. Our approach prioritises open communication and mutual understanding to achieve balanced outcomes for all parties.
Family Dispute Resolution
A structured process designed to help families resolve disputes before resorting to court proceedings. We focus on finding practical, workable solutions that consider everyone's needs and interests.
Parenting Coordination
Ongoing support to help parents implement and maintain effective parenting arrangements. Reduce conflict and improve communication for the benefit of your children's wellbeing.
Collaborative Coaching
Professional coaching support through the collaborative family law process. Navigate emotional challenges while staying focused on constructive, mutually beneficial outcomes.
Child Inclusive Mediation
A specialised approach that gives children a voice in family decisions, ensuring their views and feelings are considered in mediation. A child consultant meets with children separately to understand their perspective.
Arbitration
A binding decision-making process for resolving complex family law matters efficiently and privately. Experience faster resolution and lower costs compared to traditional court proceedings.
Why Choose Resolve Forward
We provide compassionate, professional support through every step of your family law journey
Expert Guidance
Experienced in all aspects of family law dispute resolution
Cost Effective
Save time and money compared to court proceedings
Confidential Process
Private and confidential environment for sensitive matters
Reduced Stress
Less adversarial approach focusing on resolution
Flexible Solutions
Tailored approaches to suit your unique situation
Professional Support
Compassionate guidance throughout the process
Professional Memberships & Accreditations
Recognised by leading professional bodies in family law dispute resolution
Ready to Move Forward?
Take the first step towards resolving your family law matters with professional, compassionate support