Advance Family Law

In Australia, if you don’t have a significant asset pool (family home, investments) and can agree on who gets what and work out parenting arrangements in a way that suits you both, it’s possible to finalise a relationship in a reasonably affordable manner.

Not everything has to be done immediately either, so if financial pressures are an issue, it’s okay to prioritise the order of matters to suit your situation. Even if the split is amicable, it’s still a great idea to get some legal advice because time limits do apply – and – without legally finalising your matter – your ex-partner may still be able to make a settlement claim.

If you need a divorce, you’ll need to pay the Federal Circuit & Family Court divorce application – $1060 or a reduced fee of $350.

If you have parenting or property matters, most people start with a Mediation session, which can start around $500 to upwards of $5,000 depending on who you work with and how long you book for. Rates will depend on the time taken, the location and the skills of your mediator.

Consent orders or financial orders to formalise parenting and property may need to be completed, which have application fees plus costs to come to an agreement (legal negotiations or mediation) and have them drawn up.

Legal advice and court representation can become costly for more complex or drawn-out matters, as you will pay an hourly or daily fee.

You can find more about court application fees here.

Family law matters encompass a range of legal services, from divorce applications and separation advice to addressing domestic violence issues and resolving property settlements. When considering family law matters it’s essential to understand the associated costs.

These include legal fees for consultations and representation, court filing fees, expenses related to expert witnesses or assessments, and potential costs for drafting binding financial agreements. Each firm will have its costs for family law services, which may include specialisations or relevant experience. When you are working with a new family law firm, ask them for a breakdown of costs, and let them know if your financial resources are limited.

Some matters relating to divorce and separation are usually straightforward, such as finalising a divorce application. Other issues, like property settlement matters that both parties can’t reach an agreement on or drawn-out parenting-related court proceedings, can bring with them extensive legal fees. For instance, complex property splits may require additional help from financial advisors, business law or property law specialists, which will cost more money. Specialists brought in for child custody or child protection may incur additional fees on top of your law firm fees.

Our team of highly experienced family lawyers understand the realities of family law issues and always aim to charge reasonably. We will be transparent about costs before doing any work on your behalf and will always work to resolve your family law matter cost-effectively.

Many new changes have been passed under the Family Law Act, which took effect in May 2024.

The Family Law Act undergoes revisions to address emerging societal needs and legal precedents, impacting various family law matters. Recent amendments may encompass reforms related to parenting arrangements, property settlements, and provisions concerning domestic violence. It’s crucial to stay informed about these changes and their implications for your situation.

Our Family Lawyers team stays up to date with legislative updates to provide you with informed advice and representation. We offer practical advice and confidential assistance to help you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome for your family law matter – please get in touch if you would like to know more.

Divorce or separation can have far-reaching effects on individuals and families, impacting emotional wellbeing, financial stability, and familial relationships. Both spouses may experience emotional turmoil, financial strain, and disruptions to family dynamics, making it essential to seek support and guidance during this challenging time.

Family law matters arising from violence in the home, affairs, or ongoing disputes have the potential to severely impact those involved, including the children. These costs are significant when weighing up the actual costs, gains and losses that come after a relationship and family breakdown.

While it’s true that one person can end up with more money after a relationship ends or lose time with their children, every situation is unique. Many couples reach fair and amicable agreements after ending a significant relationship, which is what every family law firm should guide their clients to achieve.

Our team of compassionate family lawyers provides practical advice and legal representation to help you navigate the complexities of divorce and separation – with a focus on fair outcomes. Whether you’re facing issues related to child custody, spousal maintenance, or property division, we’re here to advocate for your rights and interests throughout the entire process.

Fathers in Queensland have the same legal rights concerning family law matters as mothers -including parenting arrangements, child support, and involvement in their children’s lives post-separation.

The family law system emphasises shared parental responsibility, where possible, and aims to ensure children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents, irrespective of gender or marital status. Our highly experienced family law team provides comprehensive legal services to parents, focusing on their situation rather than their gender.

Whether you require assistance with parenting arrangements, child support matters, or navigating the family court system, we offer practical advice and legal representation to help you assert your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your family law matter.

Individuals facing family law matters in Queensland, including issues related to domestic violence, child custody, and property settlements, may be eligible for free legal advice through legal aid organisations or community legal centres.

These services offer independent legal advice to help individuals understand their rights, options, and potential courses of action. We recognise the importance of access to legal assistance, which is why we provide initial consultations to discuss your situation and offer preliminary advice. Our team of experienced family lawyers is committed to providing affordable legal services and ensuring you receive the support and guidance necessary to effectively navigate your family law matter.