I’m getting divorced – do I really need a lawyer?
Legally, you don’t have to engage a lawyer to help you deal with a divorce.
But family law in Australia can be complex and it’s highly recommended that you have someone with you to help navigate the legal ‘ins and outs’ of separation and divorce.
Property settlements, parental and custody matters, and any issues of ongoing financial support must be dealt with separately, as the granting of a divorce is merely a formal acknowledgement that a marriage has been dissolved.
A family law specialist can help ensure the fairness of any agreement you may have already come to with your ‘ex’ when you apply for orders from the court.
Even before you get to that stage, there are plenty of family law issues that will require a lawyer.
A good divorce lawyer can:
- Negotiate in court on your behalf;
- Help you split liabilities;
- Protect your interests, and get the best possible financial and property settlement for you.
Deciding parental responsibility is a sensitive matter that can often be an emotional experience, especially if you and your former partner are not on amicable terms.
If your dependent children are younger than 18 years of age, you must satisfy the Court that you’ve made proper arrangements for them.
A parenting plan, drafted by a qualified family lawyer, can help determine all aspects of the care and welfare of your children, as well as ensuring you and your ex understand all future arrangements.
A good family lawyer can help you with:
- Parenting plans;
- Parenting arrangements;
- Consent and parenting orders.
If you are the victim of family violence, a lawyer will be able to help you initiate court proceedings, help you prepare for court, and help get domestic violence orders in place to protect you and your children.
Here at Bickell & Mackenzie, we know that seeing a lawyer for the first time can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, particularly when you are already facing the emotional stress of a relationship breakdown.
But our legal specialists have years of experience dealing with every aspect of family law, and we are here to help you in the most compassionate way possible.
Consider Bickell & Mackenzie, contact us at (07) 3206 8700 or by filling out our Contact Form here. We aim to give you the best advice and set your mind at ease.
