Separation Lawyers Gold Coast

If you are going through a separation after a marriage or de facto relationship, our Gold Coast family lawyers are here to help.

Understanding & Practical

We know this is a difficult time. Our aim is to streamline the process for you and provide the guidance you need to make well-informed decisions about your future.

Parenting & Property

Whether you’re organising living arrangements for your children or dividing assets and liabilities, we’ll help you reach your goals efficiently and effectively.

Affordable Legal Support

Ending a significant relationship shouldn’t add financial stress. Our team is dedicated to offering quality support at fair prices.

Our Gold Coast Separation Lawyers Make the Legal Process Manageable

Experiencing a breakup is hard, and navigating family law matters can be confusing at the best of times. The legal processes can be time-consuming and are even more challenging when emotions are involved. We provide guidance and support during these times, offering clear advice on finalising matters with your ex-partner and effectively approaching your separation.

Get The Advice You Need From Our Gold Coast Separation Lawyers

Understand Your Legal Rights & Responsibilities

Our family law team will take the time to understand your circumstances and listen to your goals. We provide advice about your legal options and support you through every step.

Advance Family Law can assist you with all family law matters arising from defacto or marriage separation, from drafting financial agreements to legal representation if required.

Need legal advice to figure out your next steps?

We understand you have a lot to consider. Contact us if you need practical advice about de facto and marriage separation, parenting matters, or support with reaching a fair property settlement.

Get Started Today

Get started with an initial consultation with one of our separation lawyers.

How Our Separation Lawyers Can Help

Accredited Family Lawyers

Our separation lawyers are family law specialists who help people navigate the end of their relationships.

They assist with separation agreements, property settlements, and child custody arrangements and offer services such as drafting financial agreements and representing clients in court.

Breakups and family breakdowns encompass both economic and emotional challenges. We can assist you through the entire process.

We offer comprehensive support to navigate these difficulties, including independent legal advice on property settlements and spousal maintenance.

Accredited Legal Services

Queensland Law Society
Domestic Violence Lawyer Gold Coast
Queensland Association of Collaborative Practitioners
Child Protection Practitioners

How We Support You

STEP #1
Free 15-Minute Consult

Contact us to arrange a Free initial 15-minute phone discussion to understand how we can assist you.

STEP #2
Exploring Your Options

Our separation lawyers will ensure you understand your options, rights, and responsibilities, enabling you to make informed decisions about your situation.

STEP #3
Moving Forward

With our guidance and support, you can manage your family law matter successfully and begin moving forward with your life.

Get Started Today

Get started with an initial consultation with one of our separation lawyers.

WHY US?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Family Law Act?

The Family Law Act is an Australian law act that addresses family law matters such as divorce, property settlements, and parenting (child custody) arrangements. It ensures families receive fair and equitable treatment during separation and divorce proceedings.

It can be confusing to understand, which is why working with a family law solicitor will ensure you know how to best proceed in legal matters with your former spouse or de facto partner.

If you are managing family court proceedings to resolve parenting disputes or property settlement matters, it’s even more important to work with an experienced divorce lawyer to ensure you have the ability to make informed decisions about your family law matter.

How do courts assess property settlement in a separation?

Courts look at various factors outlined in the Family Law Act to decide on property settlements during separation. They consider financial resources, contributions made by each party, and future needs. A lawyer can help by providing guidance, representing you in court, and ensuring all financial aspects are fairly evaluated for an equitable property distribution.

How will I know how much child support I'll need to pay?

Child support payments are calculated using a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the care arrangements in place. You can estimate your payments using Services Australia’s online child support calculator.

Parents can also make private agreements. Consulting a family lawyer can help you understand your obligations and ensure all factors are considered.

What is meant by shared parental responsibility?

Shared parental responsibility means that both parents are involved in making significant decisions about their child’s welfare, as required by the Family Law Act.

This includes decisions about education, health, and religious upbringing. A separation lawyer can help create parenting plans and consent orders to ensure these agreements are legally recognised.

I can't afford legal advice from a private separation lawyer. Where else can I get help?

If you can’t afford legal advice from a private separation lawyer, you can seek help from community legal centres, Legal Aid, or nonprofit organisations that provide free or low-cost legal services.

These resources guide various legal issues, including family law, and can help you understand your rights and options. Many organisations also offer resources and helplines for further support.

Are Consent Orders and Binding Financial Agreements the same?

No, they are not the same. Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) are private agreements between parties about financial arrangements and property settlements, made before, during, or after a relationship. They do not need court approval.

Financial Consent Orders are court-approved agreements that formalise settlements and financial arrangements, ensuring they meet legal standards. Both serve to outline financial matters but have different legal standings and processes.

Is there a legal process to end a de facto relationship?

Unlike divorce, there is no formal legal process required to end a de facto relationship. However, it is essential to notify relevant authorities and update legal documents.

De facto couples should seek legal advice to formalise property settlements and parenting arrangements.

This may involve drafting a Binding Financial Agreement or applying for Consent Orders through the court to ensure these arrangements are legally recognised.

Are cohabitation agreements and prenuptial agreements the same?

Cohabitation agreements and prenuptial agreements are not the same. A cohabitation agreement outlines financial and property arrangements for couples living together without marrying.

A prenuptial agreement, or “prenup,” is a written agreement between couples planning to marry that details asset division and financial responsibilities in case of divorce.

Both agreements aim to protect individual interests but apply to different relationship stages.

Are there different laws for ending same-sex and opposite-sex relationships in Australia?

No, the laws for ending same-sex and opposite-sex relationships in Australia are the same.

The Family Law Act 1975 applies equally to all couples, regardless of gender. This includes divorce processes, property settlements, and child custody arrangements.

The law ensures that all relationships have the same legal standards and protections.

How can I avoid court proceedings after ending a relationship?

Consider mediation or collaborative law to resolve disputes amicably to avoid court proceedings after ending a relationship. Court proceedings are necessary when negotiations fail, especially in cases involving family violence, child protection, or complex property disputes.

How does court intervention affect family law matters?

Court intervention may be necessary for complex family law issues, such as child protection matters or disputes over property settlements. The Federal Circuit Court handles these cases, aiming to achieve outcomes in the best interests of all parties involved.

Advance Family Law’s Gold Coast divorce lawyers are a highly experienced team that can provide expert legal advice and representation during court proceedings.

What is being separated under the same roof?

Separation under one roof occurs when a couple decides to separate but continues to live in the same house. Despite sharing a home, they live separate lives, manage their finances independently, and sleep in separate rooms.

This arrangement can affect divorce, parenting and property matters, especially regarding the start date of separation for divorce and property settlement purposes.

What support is available when a same sex relationship ends?

The legal termination of same-sex relationships follows similar procedures to other family law issues. Experienced family lawyers provide confidential advice and legal representation, ensuring equitable resolution of property and parenting matters.

Contact family law solicitors for a preliminary consultation to understand your rights.

What is spousal maintenance, and who is eligible to receive it?

Spousal maintenance is financial support provided to a former spouse following a marriage or de facto relationship breakdown. It considers the economic needs and capacities of both parties. An initial consultation with a legal representative can provide preliminary advice on eligibility and the application process.

How do property settlements work in family law?

Property settlements involve dividing assets and liabilities between parties after a relationship ends. This includes business and property law considerations.

Gold Coast family law solicitors offer expert legal advice to ensure fair distribution, taking into account separate bank accounts, investments, and other financial interests.

What should I know about child protection matters in family law?

Child protection matters are handled with the utmost priority to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Family law services address these issues through legal interventions, such as court orders. Experienced family lawyers guide you in navigating these sensitive matters, focusing on the child’s best interests.

Can family law solicitors assist with de facto relationships?

Family law solicitors provide comprehensive services for de facto relationships, including property settlements and parenting arrangements. Independent legal advice helps parties understand their rights and obligations. Our Gold Coast separation and divorce lawyers offer support to manage the legal complexities of ending a de facto relationship.