Articles & Cases

annulment vs divorce | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Annulment vs. Divorce: 4 Key Differences

The key difference between an annulment and a divorce lies in the legal status of the marriage. An annulment declares that the marriage was never valid to begin with, essentially [...]

can my ex claim money from my new partner australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Can My Ex Claim Money From My New Partner Under Australian Law?

No, your ex cannot directly claim money from your new partner. The Family Law Act 1975 focuses on the assets, liabilities, and financial resources of the parties involved in the [...]

can my ex wife claim my lottery win | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Ex-Wives and Lottery Wins: Protecting Your Prize

So, you’ve hit the jackpot, and you’re probably wondering, “Can my ex wife claim my lottery win?” The short answer is it’s complicated but possible. Now, let’s dive into the [...]

purpose of mediation | Melbourne Family Lawyers

8 Purposes of Mediation For Your Convenience

Mediation is essential to the Australian legal system and crucial in resolving disputes outside the courtroom. As an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method, the purpose of mediation aims to facilitate [...]

permission to take child abroad | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Traveling Abroad with Kids: Divorced Parent’s Guide

Navigating the complexities of family law can be challenging, especially when it involves taking your child abroad. Understanding the legal requirements is important whether you’re planning a holiday or considering [...]

civil partnership vs marriage australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Civil Partnership vs Marriage Australia

In Australia, both civil partnerships and marriages are recognised forms of legally registered relationships, but they differ in terms of legal status, rights, and societal recognition. Understanding these differences can [...]

if you get married in vegas is it legal in australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

If You Get Married in Vegas, Is It Legal in Australia?

Yes, if you marry in Las Vegas, your marriage is generally legal in Australia. However, you must follow specific requirements and steps to ensure your marriage is legally valid. When [...]

ex husband refusing to pay school fees | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Ex Husband Refusing to Pay School Fees: 5 Influencing Factors

If your ex-husband refuses to pay school fees, it is important to understand your legal rights and your options. In Australia, child support covers the important costs of raising a [...]

contested divorce | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Contested Divorce: 6 important Steps

A contested divorce is a legal proceeding in which one or both parties disagree on the terms of the divorce. Unlike an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all [...]

de facto visa australia student | Melbourne Fa

De Facto Visa for Australian Students: Eligibility and Process

When considering a de facto visa for Australia students, it’s important to understand the process, requirements, and benefits. This guide provides a detailed overview of how you can add a [...]

defacto visa break up | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Defacto Visa Break Up: 2 Possible Outcomes

Breaking up is never easy and can be even more complicated when you’re on a defacto visa in Australia. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to understand [...]

psychological effects of moving to another country as a child | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Psychological Effects of Moving to Another Country as a Child

Moving to another country can have profound psychological effects on a child. This significant life change involves leaving familiar surroundings, friends, and routines and adapting to a new culture, language, [...]

married overseas divorce in australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Married Overseas; Divorced in Australia

Marriage is a significant milestone in anyone’s life, and sometimes, individuals may choose to tie the knot overseas, creating unforgettable memories in a foreign land. However, divorce may become a [...]

how are assets divided in a divorce australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

How Are Assets Divided in a Divorce Australia

Divorce can be emotionally tiring, and one of the most significant concerns for couples is the division of assets. The legal system in Australia follows a specific asset distribution approach [...]

bipolar mother and child custody

Can a Bipolar Parent Obtain Child Custody? Insights and Factors

It can be challenging and emotionally difficult for everyone resolving disputes involving children. This is especially true when one parent has a mental illness such as bipolar disorder. The family [...]

duty of disclosure | Melbourne Family Lawyers

What is Duty of Disclosure in Family Law

Family law in Australia is designed to protect the interests of all parties involved in a dispute, notably regarding property settlement, financial matters, and parenting arrangements. The duty of disclosure [...]

custody battle tips | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Custody Battles: Tips and Eligibility to Fight for Custody

Custody battles can be a challenging and emotional experience for both parents and children. The Family Law Act of 1975, which prioritises the child’s best interests, governs custody disputes in [...]

how to protect your inheritance from your spouse australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

How to Protect Your Inheritance from Your Spouse

Inheriting assets or wealth from a loved one can be a bittersweet experience. Still, it also raises important considerations, especially when you have concerns about protecting your inheritance from your [...]

decree nisi australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Decree Nisi Australia: Requirements, Waiting Period and More

A decree nisi refers to a provisional order by a court in Australia that signifies the court is satisfied that the applicant is entitled to a divorce However, the divorce [...]

what happens after divorce is granted | Melbourne Family Lawyers

What Happens After Divorce is Granted: 9-Point Comprehensive Guide

The marriage is legally dissolved when a divorce is granted, and both parties are to remarry. However, this is just the beginning of several legal and personal steps that follow. [...]

how do you know when your marriage is over | Melbourne Family Lawyers

How Do You Know When Your Marriage Is Over?

Knowing when your marriage is over can be one of the most challenging and heart-wrenching realisations. It involves recognising persistent patterns of negative interactions, emotional distance, and an overall lack [...]

is a step parent a legal guardian | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Is a Step Parent a Legal Guardian: 6-Point Comprehensive Guide

In Australia, a step-parent is not automatically considered a legal guardian of their stepchildren. Legal guardianship involves a set of responsibilities and rights regarding the care and decision-making for a [...]

sole carer | Melbourne Family Lawyers

5 Important Responsibilities of a Sole Carer

A sole carer is an individual who is the primary provider of care and support for someone who is unable to care for themselves independently. This role often arises in [...]

what is parallel parenting | Dandenong Family Lawyers

Benefits of Parallel Parenting

Parallel parenting is a method of parenting often employed by divorced or separated parents who experience a high level of conflict. Unlike co-parenting, which involves more collaboration and communication, parallel [...]

household items and personal belongings after separation australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

What Happens to Household Items and Personal Belongings After Separation?

In Australia, the law provides a framework for dividing property, including household items and personal belongings, after a separation. This framework aims to ensure a fair and equitable distribution based [...]

lying to family report writer | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Why You Should Not Lie To Family Report Writers

In Australian family law proceedings, lying to a family report writer is a serious matter that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Family report writers, also known as [...]

post separation contributions | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Post Separation Contributions: 3 Important Considerations

Post-separation contributions refer to the financial, non-financial, and parental efforts made by parties after the breakdown of a relationship. In Australian family law, these contributions significantly impact the fair and [...]

how long does an intervention order last | Melbourne Family Laywers

How Long Does an Intervention Order Last in Australia?

How long does an IVO last in Victoria? In Victoria, the duration of an Intervention Order (IVO) is not set in stone and can vary greatly depending on the circumstances [...]

interim parenting order | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Interim Parenting Orders : A Comprehensive Guide

An interim parenting order is a temporary order made by the Family Court of Australia or the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) to address immediate and [...]

avoiding child support by hiding income | Melbourne Family Lawyers

7 Possible Consequences of Hiding Income to Avoid Child Support

In Australia, child support is a legal responsibility intended to help cover the costs associated with raising children after a separation or divorce. Unfortunately, some parents attempt to evade this [...]

signs your ex is turning your child against you | Melbourne Family Lawyers

5 Warning Signs Your Ex Is Turning Your Child Against You

Parental alienation is a form of emotional abuse often following separation or divorce, where one parent manipulates their child to turn against the other parent. Parental alienation occurs when one [...]

bird nesting divorce | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Benefits and Drawbacks of Bird-Nesting in Divorce

Bird nesting divorce, a co-parenting arrangement gaining traction among separating couples, involves children remaining in the family home while parents take turns living with them. This model prioritises the stability [...]

sole occupancy order | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Understanding Sole Occupancy Orders

A sole occupancy order is a legal directive issued by the family courts in Australia which grants one partner exclusive rights to reside in the matrimonial home during separation or [...]

divorce stamp duty exemption | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Divorce Stamp Duty Exemption Ultimate Guide

Navigating through a divorce can be a complex and emotionally taxing process, especially when it comes to the division of assets and property settlements. An aspect that often brings relief [...]

divorce and superannuation | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Divorce and Superannuation: All You Need to Know

Aside from being challenging and emotionally stressful, divorce often involves the division of assets, including superannuation. In Australia, superannuation is considered a valuable asset, and understanding the legal framework surrounding [...]

if a mother dies does the father automatically get custody | Melbourne Family Lawyers

If a Mother Dies, Does the Father Automatically Get Custody?

In the unfortunate event of a mother’s passing, questions often arise about who will care for the child. It’s important to note that the father does not automatically gain child [...]

mediation for separation | Melbourne Family Lawyers

All You Need to Know About Mediation for Separation

Mediation for separation is an increasingly popular method for resolving disputes during divorce or the dissolution of a marriage or de facto relationship. It offers a structured environment where parties [...]

will i lose custody if i fail a drug test | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Will I Lose Custody If I Fail a Drug Test?

Failing a drug test during custody proceedings does not automatically result in losing custody of your child, but it can significantly impact the court’s decision. The Family Court’s primary concern [...]

financial binding agreement cost | Melbourne Family Lawyers

3 Important Factors Influencing Binding Financial Agreement Cost

When considering the legalities of managing assets and financial matters, especially in a relationship breakdown, the Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) cost often comes to the forefront of discussions. In Australia, [...]

can you be married and in a defacto relationship | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Can You Be Married and in a De Facto Relationship?

Yes, you can be married to one person and in a de facto relationship with another simultaneously, at least in Australian family law. The law recognises de facto relationships even [...]

tenant in common vs joint tenants | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Tenant in Common vs Joint Tenants

At its core, the distinction between a tenant in common and a joint tenant lies in the ownership share and the rights upon an owner’s death. Tenant in Common: In [...]

my husband died while we were separated | Melbourne Family Lawyers

My Husband Died While We Were Separated

Losing a partner is an indescribably profound sorrow, a situation that becomes even more complex when the death occurs amidst a separation. “My husband died while we were separated” is [...]

child laws sleeping arrangements australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Sleeping Arrangements for Child Custody Cases in Australia

When parents separate, or divorce, one of the most critical and challenging issues to resolve is the custody arrangement for their child. Deciding where the child will reside, who will [...]

family law court | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Which Family Law Court in Melbourne?

Understanding the role of courts in child custody matters is crucial for parents navigating the complexities of family law. In Melbourne, several courts play pivotal roles in addressing child custody [...]

out of court settlement | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Faster, Cheaper, Better: Out of Court Settlements Benefits

In legal disputes, particularly within family law in Australia, an out-of-court settlement often emerges as a beacon of resolution, offering a pathway to resolve conflicts without the need for protracted [...]

caveatable interest family law | Melbourne Family Laywers

Caveatable Interest Family Law

Caveatable interest family law is someone with a legitimate claim or interest in the property. In Australian law, a caveat is a document that can be lodged. It doesn’t create [...]

Is my wife entitled to half my limited company | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Is My Wife Entitled to Half My Limited Company?

When facing divorce, one of the most pressing questions for business owners is, “Is my wife entitled to half my limited company?” The straightforward answer is not necessarily. In Australia, [...]

can a separated spouse enter the home | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Can a Separated Spouse Enter the Home?

Navigating the complexities of separation can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding the rights and limitations regarding the marital home. A common question that arises is, “Can a [...]

Out of Court Settlements

Out of Court Settlements: 3 Advantages

In legal disputes, particularly within family law in Australia, out-of-court settlements often emerge as a beacon of resolution, offering a pathway to resolve conflicts without the need for protracted court [...]

out of time property settlement | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Out of Time Property Settlements

In the intricate world of family law, the concept of “out of time” property settlements emerges as a significant hurdle for individuals who have separated or divorced. In Australia, the [...]

can a gift be taken back legally | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Can a Gift Be Taken Back Legally

In the context of property settlement, the question of whether a gift can be taken back legally becomes pertinent when determining the division of assets and understanding each party’s entitlements. [...]

will a family trust protect my assets | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Will a Family Trust Protect My Assets?

In asset protection and estate planning, family trusts often emerge as a beacon of hope for safeguarding one’s wealth. But the burning question remains: Will a family trust protect my [...]

who keeps the engagement ring after a divorce australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Who Keeps the Engagement Ring After a Divorce Australia

In Australia, the question of who keeps the engagement ring after a divorce hinges on several factors, including how the ring was acquired and the intentions of both parties involved. [...]

automatic divorce after long separation australia | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Automatic Divorce After Long Separation Australia

In Australia, the concept of an automatic divorce following a long period of separation is a common misconception. Divorce is not automatically granted following a lengthy separation period, no matter [...]

initial contributions family law | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Initial Contributions Family Law

Understanding the nuances of “initial contributions family law” is crucial for anyone navigating the complexities of property settlements in Australia. When relationships come to an end, determining how assets and [...]

property injury settlements | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Personal Injury Settlements Compensation and Claims

Personal injury settlements are agreements between the injured party and the responsible party (or their insurer) to compensate for injuries and losses. These settlements can cover various damages, including medical [...]

gift vs loan family law | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Financial Gifts vs. Loans: What Family Law Says

Family law‘s distinction between a gift and a loan can significantly impact financial agreements and property settlements. This differentiation is not just a matter of semantics but a critical factor [...]

is mediation legally binding | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Is Mediation Legally Binding: 6 Important Takeaways

Mediation is a voluntary process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. It’s a flexible and confidential way to [...]

capital gains tax and divorce | Melbourne Family Lawyers

CGT on Divorce Settlement in Australia

Going through a divorce or separation can be a challenging time, not only emotionally but also financially. One critical aspect that often gets overlooked until the later stages of property [...]

Going to Court After Mediation | Melbourne Family Lawyers

Going to Court After Mediation: 6 Important Steps

When mediation concludes without a resolution or if one party fails to uphold their end of a mediated agreement, the next step often considered is going to court. This transition [...]

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