When Rolls Royce and Holden Justice Collide: An Analysis of the Operations of the Federal Magistrates Service in Queensland in the Family Law Arena

Abstract

This research investigates claims by the Commonwealth Attorney-General that the Federal Magistrates Service (FMS) is providing a quicker, cheaper, less formal option for litigants than the Family Court. Qualitative research was undertaken in Queensland from February 2001 and November 2001. A purposive sample of twenty-five family law practitioners, nine Family Court and four Federal Magistracy judicial and management staff from around Queensland were interviewed. Although the small number of practitioners interviewed does not allow the researcher to draw conclusions as to trends across Queensland, the findings can be compared with the results of national research conducted by consultants on behalf of the Federal Magistrates Service. This project represents the first independent research into the efficacy of the FMS in achieving the goals set for it by the Attorney-General.