Family Law Australia

Separation and Divorce

Separation triggers a range of legal rights and obligations that many people are unaware of until it is too late. Our lawyers advise on the legal date of separation, what steps to take immediately to protect your financial position, and how to apply for divorce once the 12-month separation period has elapsed. We guide you through the entire process, from initial advice to finalising divorce orders.

Property Settlements

Dividing assets and liabilities after separation involves more than simply splitting things in half — courts consider contributions made by each party and future needs factors including income, age, health, and caring responsibilities. Our family lawyers assist with negotiating out-of-court settlements, drafting binding financial agreements and consent orders, and representing clients in contested property proceedings where agreement cannot be reached. Acting promptly is critical given the time limits that apply.

Parenting Arrangements and Custody

When parents separate, decisions about where children live and how much time they spend with each parent are among the most consequential legal matters they will face. Our lawyers help clients negotiate parenting plans, draft consent orders, and where necessary, make urgent applications to the court for parenting orders. The best interests of the child are the court's paramount consideration, and our practitioners understand how to present your case effectively within that framework.

Child Support

Child support obligations are assessed by Services Australia using a statutory formula, but disputes frequently arise about assessments, changes in income, special expenses, and the enforcement of payment obligations. Our lawyers advise parents on their rights and options, including applications to change an administrative assessment and applications to the court for departure orders where the formula does not produce a fair result. We also assist with private child support agreements.

Domestic Violence Orders and Family Violence

Family violence, including physical, emotional, financial, and coercive control, is a central concern within the family law system and one our practitioners take extremely seriously. We assist clients in applying for protection orders, responding to orders taken out against them, and navigating the intersection between family violence orders and parenting proceedings. Urgent applications can be made and we are available around the clock to assist clients who need immediate help.

De Facto Relationships and Binding Financial Agreements

De facto couples have rights and responsibilities under the Family Law Act 1975 that are broadly equivalent to those of married couples, including in relation to property settlements and spousal maintenance. Our lawyers advise de facto partners on their entitlements, assist in establishing whether a de facto relationship existed for legal purposes, and draft binding financial agreements — including prenuptial and cohabitation agreements — that provide certainty before, during, or after a relationship. Properly drafted agreements can save significant time and cost if a relationship later breaks down.