Understanding the Online Dispute Resolution Tool Amica

In June 2020, the online dispute resolution tool amica was launched. It uses AI technology designed to help separating partners come to agreements over family law disputes, without the need to take their cases to court. It is one of many family law services people can turn to, though it is always a good idea to have a chat with a family lawyer as well. Amica saves people a lot of money for ex-partners who are able to put aside animosity and get on with planning for the future. It is a great tool and has won many awards already. 

It was created by the Legal Services Commission of South Australia working with National Legal Aid and then paid for by the AG department. It helps couples ready to negotiate and reach agreements on matters such as property division and parenting arrangements. For a small fee, you can have it create written documents that record the agreement. There is also a facility that provides family law advice, information and resources.

How parents can benefit from using amica

If you are a couple separating and you have children, amica can help with creating parenting arrangements both parents are able to accept. The app also records the acceptance of these agreements. The smart technology covers a variety of topics such as what happens on special occasions, what happens with schooling, how handovers are to be handled and how issues concerning the children’s health are to be dealt with. All such information entered into the system by each parent is taken into consideration to help form the parenting plan. 

Both parties can sign the agreement electronically and work through the process at their own pace, and in their own space. However, these plans are not legally binding and both parties must be committed to following them. For legal binding agreements, all parties concerned should seek the help of family lawyers Perth. You can adapt or rework the plan if each of you has changing circumstances or as the children get older. But if you have to head to court at some point after, the latest plan you both signed will be consulted. 

Using amica to help with the division of property

The AI can also help with drawing up an agreement for the division of property. It analyses each person’s circumstances, what other couples in the same situation have agreed to, what courts have ordered in such examples and then suggests a division. If in agreement, you can then use family counselling perth to apply for a property consent order to formalise it.

Finding family law help and information using amica

There is a lot of information and guidance on other services on the amica website. If you feel that amica is not of assistance, you can then seek legal advice from family lawyers Perth.