Originally published in 1986, reissued here with a new preface, this study of the origins and early development of family conciliation services in Britain outlines their philosophy, methods of work and reported results, illustrated with case examples. The examples demonstrate that disputes between separating and divorcing couples involve complex personal and family problems as well as legal ones, and that the practice of conciliation needed to be set in the context of current changes in family law and court procedures. At the time many solicitors and courts were adopting a settlement-seeking approach in matrimonial cases rather than a sharply adversarial one, and the complementary roles of solicitors and conciliators gave rise to dilemmas in practice, as well as offering potential advantages. This book draws a parallel between the work of ACAS in industrial disputes and the similar approach of family conciliation services, but points out that there are also major differences. It also shows how the experience of conciliation practice gained in other countries throws some useful light on the questions being raised in Britain. Research findings from Australia, Canada and the United States are used in discussing the future of conciliation in the short and longer term, and in looking at the possible development of alternative methods of resolving disputes.

In explaining non-court dispute resolution processes and in managing the mediation process carefully, mediators need awareness, empathy and a high level of knowledge and skills. Lisa Parkinson's definitive mediation textbook has been brought up to date to incorporate new developments in Family Justice and in mediation theory and practice. It is an authoritative and practical guide which not only explains the principles and process of family mediation but also places it in the context of a changing family justice system and its interaction with other professionals and processes. The text is supplemented by appendices containing key sample documentation. As such it remains the authoritative book in its subject area and essential reading for all mediators.

Marcus Leoni is in the wrong place at the wrong time. When he witnesses an execution-style mob hit, and is discovered hiding behind a dumpster, he is shot and left for dead. Not even Marcus' family knows the truth. Miraculously, he survived. Marcus was secretly treated, and put into a federal witness protection program. While the police continue to develop a plan to take down the crime families, Marcus begins a new life in the Canadian Rockies. In Alberta, Marcus ends up finding something totally unexpected - the love of his life, Paige. But at the very moment Marcus comes to terms with his new life, news from back home in New York City sets him on a path to exact revenge.