Do I need a lawyer to get divorced?

Not always. A simple divorce application can be filed online without one. It's worth getting advice before you apply if you have children, shared property or superannuation, because divorce starts the clock on time limits for property claims.

How long do I have to settle property after separating?

Married couples generally have 12 months from the date the divorce becomes final. De facto couples generally have two years from separation. After that you need the court's permission, which is not guaranteed.

Is mediation compulsory?

For parenting disputes, you usually need a certificate from a family dispute resolution practitioner before filing in court, unless an exception applies such as family violence or urgency.

Family & Relationships lawyers in Canberra, ACT

Choosing the right kind of assistance

Family matters often involve several decisions at once: living arrangements, children, immediate expenses, property and formally ending a marriage. A useful first consultation separates those issues and identifies what needs attention now. Tell the lawyer about safety concerns and existing orders before arranging discussions involving another person.

Working with a firm in Canberra

A Canberra address does not automatically mean ACT law is the only law involved. Commonwealth decisions, workplace matters and transactions involving nearby NSW can require different experience and procedures.

For family & relationships, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant ACT experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Canberra. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.

How the engagement may progress

Explain the relationship history, current arrangements and outcome you want. Identify immediate concerns and provide every existing order or agreement.
Discuss negotiation and family dispute resolution. Parenting applications generally involve prior dispute resolution unless an exception applies; ask the lawyer to assess the appropriate process.
Ask how an agreement would be documented and implemented. Clarify who handles related transfers, finance and estate-planning work.

Fees and the scope of work

Ask for separate estimates for advice, negotiation, document preparation and court work. A fixed divorce-application fee does not necessarily cover parenting or financial disputes.

Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.

Dates to raise at first contact

Highlight court dates, proposed travel or relocation and any planned property sale. Ask which time limits apply to your particular issues rather than assuming there is one deadline for everything.

Questions to ask a family & relationships adviser

Will you handle parenting, property and divorce together or separately?
How will you communicate with me safely?
What would change the proposed approach or budget?

Family & Relationships lawyers in Canberra

Farrar Gesini Dunn

NatLaw

Parker Coles Curtis

Dickson Legal Barker Trevor,LLB

Legal Guru Pty Ltd

Neilan Stramandinoli Family Law

Artisan Legal

Clifford Lois

Foster Johnson Family and Collaborative Lawyers

Apollo Law

HCC Lawyers

Canberra Community Law

Yellow Legal

Morris Legal Group

GPG Lawyers

Brightstone Legal

Pennicott Weir Lawyers

Robinson McGuinness Family Law

Infinity Legal

Barker & Barker

Nicholls Anzani Family Lawyers

Terry Johnson Legal

Mazengarb Family Lawyers

Campbell & Co. Lawyers

Why family law matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to family & relationships in Canberra