Every year, a significant number of New Zealand parents find themselves navigating the challenging process of family separation without adequate help or guidance. This unfortunate reality often leaves them and their vulnerable children exposed to high levels of parental conflict, mental health issues, instances of suicide, and family violence and more difficulties. Many parents face the daunting task of managing their family separation process, sudden lifestyle changes, and protecting their children from harmful levels of conflict. Furthermore, many encounter additional obstacles, such as making critical decisions and comprehending the intricacies of resolving their disputes amicably.
Moreover, many of these parents are compelled to represent themselves in the Family Court, seeking access to their children, safeguarding their well-being and their children from violence, or defending themselves against some serious accusations. They are left to navigate the complex Family Justice system entirely unsupported, often facing professional legal representation from the opposing party or dealing with vexatious litigation.
FDSS was established in response to the pressing demands of numerous whānau going through the family separation process and the Family Court system alone. For several decades, many families have been imploring for assistance in handling their family separation and comprehending the intricacies of the current slow Family Court processes.
Regrettably, the recent reduction / unavailability of legal aid funding has resulted in even more individuals having to navigate their family court proceedings without adequate help or guidance. The accessibility to justice for these individuals is severely limited by the overwhelming nature of the Family Court processes, particularly for those who have never encountered them before. Many struggle to effectively represent themselves in court, further exacerbating their challenges and creates huge backlog in the Family Court System, which makes it really difficult for others who are in urgent need to access the system.