How to Prepare for Your First Family Law Consultation
A first family law consultation is not a test. You do not need to arrive with every document, remember every date or have already decided what you want to do. The purpose of the meeting is to help the lawyer understand what is happening, identify any immediate concerns and explain what information or next steps […]
What Financial Information Should You Gather After Separation?
After separation, it can be difficult to know which financial documents matter and what should be dealt with first. You do not need to value every asset or resolve the property settlement immediately. A practical starting point is to create a clear picture of the property, debts, income and financial interests connected with you and […]
What to Do If You Receive Family Court Documents
Receiving family court documents can feel confronting, particularly if you were not expecting proceedings to begin. The documents may concern children, property, financial arrangements or another family law issue. They may also contain proposed orders, allegations, a court date and requirements for filing a response. Do not ignore the documents or assume that the first […]
New Family Law Amendments Focus on Parenting Matters
In a significant development in family law, the recently enacted Family Law Amendment Act of 2023 brings forth substantial changes predominantly concerning parenting matters. These changes are poised to redefine the landscape of family law proceedings, placing a renewed emphasis on the best interests of children and reshaping the way separated parents navigate long-term decisions […]
Determining the Valuation Date for Assets in Family Law Property Settlements
Post-separation contributions refer to monetary inputs that are considered when assessing assets during family law property settlements.. The Full Court of the Family Court has underscored the significance of post-separation contributions, labeling them as an “extremely relevant consideration” (Maine and Maine [2016] FamCAFC 270 at [38]). If one party significantly augments their assets post-separation but […]
Navigating the new landscape of family law: Parental responsibility and equal time
The Family Law Amendment Act of 2023 has ushered in a new era in family law, bringing significant changes to a regime that has been in place since 2006. This monumental shift has been met with mixed reactions from legal experts, parents, and stakeholders alike. In this article, we will delve into the key amendments and explore their implications for parental responsibility and equal time in family law matters.