Australia's family law system, governed by the Family Law Act 1975, helps people resolve the legal aspects of family relationship issues, including family relationship breakdown.

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The system encourages people whose marriage or a de facto relationship has broken down to try to agree on parenting and property arrangements and to resolve their disputes through mediation or counselling before they go to court.

 

The focus is on issues involving family relationships, such as separation, marriage and divorce, child custody, child guardianship and financial support of children (child support), spousal maintenance and sorting out property after the breakdown of a marriage or a de facto relationship.

 

There is an emphasis on the rights of children and the responsibilities that each parent has towards their children, rather than on parental rights. The aim is to ensure that children can enjoy a meaningful relationship with each of their parents, and that they are protected from harm.

 

Anyone who has an ongoing relationship with children and wants that relationship to continue — such as grandparents — can use the family law system.

 

Additionally, relationships can be impacted in Australian family law matters through custody disputes, parental abduction of children, domestic violence, overseas asset holdings and the application of foreign marriage and property laws.

 

Other common reasons to seek advice from a family lawyer include:

• Separation [More ...]

• Property settlements including Financial Agreements  and Consent orders [More ...]

• Parenting arrangements including Parenting plans, Parenting orders and Consent orders [More ...]

• Family violence [More ...]

• Spousal maintenance [More ...]

• Divorce [More ...]

• Conveyancing – Selling or transferring ownership of the matrimonial home [More ...]

• Wills - Changing your will including guardianship for minor children [More ...]

 

Getting advice in the early stages of a relationship break down is important to ensure the best possible outcome is reached for you and your family.

 

If you or someone you know wants more information, help or advice on their family law concerns, please contact Gerard Kell & Co on 0412 4242 38 or email us at gerard@kellcolegal.com.au.