It is common practice in our courts to use confrontation and adversarial strategies to resolve family matters. However, this approach only further distresses families already in crisis at a time of divorce. With parents committing suicide, or left destitute on the street, it is high time to implement drastic changes to present legislation.

Recommendations:

1. That mediation be made mandatory. That litigation be allowed only after every effort at mediation has been exhausted.

2. That all children comprising a family unit be entitled to equal consideration under Federal Guidelines irrespective of bloodline (save where previous provision has been made).

3. That the practice of imputing income be abolished. That only actual income be assessed when setting child support (save where tax evasion has been proved).

4. That no individuals income be garnisheed below federal 'income assistance' levels.

We, the undersigned, believe it is imperative that the above recommendations be invoked.