Family Law 
and Divorce

Property Settlements and Divorce 

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When you decide to separate, you and your former partner will need to make important decisions about children, property, money and belongings. Completing a property settlement is an essential step in the divorce process. Seeking legal advice from a Family Lawyer experienced in these matters is crucial to ensure that any agreements or orders made are fair, enforceable and pragmatic, we can help with: ​

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• Consent Orders  

• Court Orders and Proceedings

• Spousal Maintenance 

• Divorce Applications.  

De facto relationships

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In Australia, even if a couple is not married but living together in a de facto relationship, they may still need to undergo a property settlement process upon separation. The Family Law Act of 1975 extends property settlement rights to de facto couples who have separated and meets specific criteria regarding the duration and nature of their relationship.

Unlike divorce, which requires a 12-month separation period, there is no mandatory separation period for de facto couples seeking a property settlement. However, it's essential to seek legal advice promptly to initiate the process as there are time limitations involved in making property settlement claims.

Children and Parenting matters

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We prioritise your children’s best interests throughout the entire process. Whether it's in negotiations, mediation or Court proceedings, we provide expert representation to ensure the wellbeing of your family.  

While you go your separate ways, divorce or separation involving children requires careful planning and communication, we can help keep the following on track: 

• Parenting Agreements  

• Consent Orders  

• Parenting Orders  

• Recovery & Location Orders 

• Child Support  

• Child Protection Law.  

Divorce

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Divorce represents a significant legal milestone, marking the formal end of a marriage. In Australia, a divorce application can only be made once the parties have been separated for at least 12 months, demonstrating an irretrievable breakdown of the relationship. Either spouse can apply individually or jointly, reflecting agreement to proceed with the divorce.

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Whether dealing with a straightforward application or more complex circumstances such as periods of cohabitation during separation or short-term marriages, it is important to understand the legal requirements and seek professional guidance where needed.

Disputes and resolution 

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Leveraging our expertise in negotiations, mediation, collaborative practices, dispute resolution and advocacy skills we navigate you through each phase of the Family Law journey, safeguarding not only your interests but also those of your children.

At every turn, we remain dedicated to securing a resolution that promotes your wellbeing and fosters a new chapter of stability and fulfillment. 

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• Dispute Resolution Conferences 

• Mediation  

• Conciliation Conference. 

Binding Financial Agreement (BFA)​​

A Binding Financial Agreement (BFA), often called a pre-nuptial or relationship agreement, is a legally enforceable document that sets out how assets, finances, and property will be managed before, during, or after a relationship.

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A BFA can be used before marriage, in a de facto relationship, or after separation to provide clarity and financial certainty for both parties.

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It can help reduce the risk of disputes, protect individual assets, and clearly define how financial matters such as property, support, and investments will be handled if the relationship changes.