How do you propose to physically divide the assets, and liabilities, of the relationship? The answer to this will depend on your circumstances and the assets, liabilities and financial resources of you and your spouse. Read more >>

Married couples

The Family Law Act 1975 (Commonwealth), and case law, applies to financial matters between married, de facto and same sex couples. Read more >>

Defacto Couples including same sex couples

In general the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), will apply for defacto couples who separated after 1 March 2009. For defacto couples who separated before 1 March 2009, in Queensland, the Property Law Act 1974 applies. Read more >>

Divorce

There is no formal process for a separation of married or de facto couples. However there is a formal court process for divorce for married couples. The only ground for a divorce is irretrievable breakdown of marriage which is evidenced by one year's separation. Read more >>

Parenting and child arrangements

The vast majority of children's matters are dealt with under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth). This applies whether the child is born to a married, de facto or same sex couple, or whether you are a party to proceedings who is a grandparent or other relation or a carer of the child. Read more >>

Child abduction - international and within Australia

One parent "abducting" or threatening to abduct the children is distressing for a parent and their children. It is essential to act quickly. Read more >>

Spousal maintenance

Are you required to financially support your spouse, or should he or she be required to financially support you? This will depend on both you and your spouse's financial circumstances. Read more >>

Child support and maintenance

The Child Support Agency, which is a Commonwealth government agency, handles the vast majority of child support matters. The Child Support Agency has various powers, and these may affect the ability of parent to seek Court orders or to make their own arrangements. The Family Court of Australia or Federal Magistrates Court of Australia may make orders regarding child support if other proceedings are on foot or a party seeks a departure from a Child Support Agency assessment. Child Support Agreements both simple and binding can be made. Read more >>

Pre-nuptial and Post-nuptial agreements

Since December 2000, pursuant to the Family Law Act 1975, it has been possible for parties who intend to marry to enter into a Binding Financial Agreement before marriage, commonly known as a "pre-nuptial agreement". A Binding Financial Agreement before marriage has the effect of regulating the division of assets if the couple separate after marriage. It is also possible to enter into a Binding Financial Agreement during a marriage, after separation and after divorce. Read more >>

Cohabitation and Separation Agreements for Defacto Couples – Part VIIIAB Financial Agreements

Defacto and same sex couples, can also regulate their financial affairs, both before they live together, during their relationship and after separation, in much the same manner as couples who intend to marry and those who marry, via Part VIIIAB Financial Agreements. Read more >>

Domestic violence

Domestic Violence includes physical and emotional abuse. We act for both complainants and respondents. Read more >>

Other personal services: wills, powers of attorney and advance health directives

Every adult should have these documents in place. We can help you.