Separation is not easy. Sometimes it comes as quite a shock. As a result of that shock comes confusion on what you do now. Firstly you look after you. Check in with a friend or family member, make an appointment to see a support service like Lifeline or Anglicare. Secondly make sure you take copies of all your important documents, if you are asked to leave, take a copy of these documents with you. Thirdly, talk with a solicitor about finding out what your legal rights are.

Parenting-What you need to know

When parents separate they need to come to an agreement regarding the care of the children. Parents should seek help from a mediation service like Relationship Australia and other support services. There are often waiting lists for these reduced cost services therefore private mediators may be a choice you need to consider. More information

Property Settlement – Where do we start

Division of relationship property can be settled by agreement reached between the parties, with the help of a independent third party at Mediation, or by negotiations with the assistance of a property Lawyer. The agreement should be recorded by either a Binding Financial Agreement or an Application to the Family Court for property orders. More Information

Divorce-when can we apply

There are time limits that apply before either party or both parties together can apply for a divorce. Importantly recording the date of separation is necessary so that both parties agree. Record the date 12 months from date of settlement and make an application to the family court. You can apply online or with the assistance of a Lawyer. More Information

When you are ready, give us a call or make an appointment.

Why choose us?

Family Court lawyers choose this area of Law because we care. We are experienced in helping clients reach agreements in parenting and property matters. For parents that cannot reach an agreement then if required we will represent our clients in the court system. However, our goal is to support our clients and try to help them reach an agreement without court involvement.

A good Family Lawyer is a lawyer who will not tell you what you want to hear but will tell you what you need to hear. They will advise a client seeking a parenting agreement based upon the age and needs of the children. They will reality test with the client whether what they are seeking is in the best interest of the children. Discussions involving property settlements will be based on the length of the relationship, considerations of the contributions of the parties, needs and health of the parties.

Discussions of legal costs should be clear and a client should be provided with options and referrals for assistance if the reality of these costs would impact a client financially. Fixed fees and hourly rates should be offered with an agreement that ongoing legal costs will need to be updated as a matter requires.

If you do not feel confident after meeting with a lawyer then perhaps they are not the right fit for you. Do not give up and ask for a referral.