Q: Our relationship breakdown is amicable. Do I really need to see a family lawyer?
A: Irrespective of whether or not a relationship breakdown is amicable, it is worth seeing a family lawyer in order to ascertain whether there is anything you should be doing to protect your position.
If the breakdown is amicable, that is usually the best time to negotiate final orders, preventing any comeback by the other party. Often an amicable relationship between ex-partners can deteriorate unexpectedly – for example if one party moves on with a new relationship.
In the case of property, there is often paperwork to be done to divide the property of the relationship in the way you have agreed, and getting family court orders made by consent can save you a lot of money when it comes to transfer (stamp) duty.
Q: How much does it cost to get family law representation?
A: Family law representation is often expensive because of the complicated circumstances surrounding a relationship breakdown. However, the likely cost of representation varies enormously depending on your particular situation. At your initial consultation you can sit down with an experienced family law solicitor, discuss your situation and the issues it raises, and discuss options for dealing with these issues as well as the likely cost of each option. Of course, you need not proceed any further if you feel, after discussing your situation with us, that there is no need, and we will advise you if we consider this to be the case. But you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you’ve obtained advice about whether there is anything that you could or should be doing legally in the wake of your relationship breakdown.
Q: Do I have to pay up front?
A: In most cases, yes, you will need to make an upfront payment or set up a regular deposit of funds into our trust account in order for us to provide you with family law representation. Sometimes arrangements can be made for payment on the sale of property or when funds are received from the other party in property disputes. We are happy to discuss these issues with you.
Q: Do you do family law for Legal Aid clients in children’s matters?
A: Unfortunately we cannot provide family law assistance to Legal Aid clients. If due to your circumstances you cannot fund your own representation in a children’s matter, you should speak to Legal Aid directly.
Q: Can we both come in to see you at the same time?
A: We must act for one party or the other. We cannot act for both and you should not bring your ex-partner with you to your initial appointment. You are most welcome to bring any other family or friends to your appointment for support.
Q: Is it okay if I bring my children?
A: You should make arrangements for your children to be cared for as they are unable to attend family law appointments.