Speaking with a lawyer before you make any big decisions about family or relationships can help you secure a strong, positive future in life and love—for everyone involved.
What kind of lawyer?
For most legal issues that arise in family and relationships, you will need a lawyer who works in family law—a family lawyer.
Top tip: If you have a complex matter, you may need a family law accredited specialist. Just look for the symbol next to their name.
When to seek family law advice
You and your family can benefit from family law advice at every stage of life, such as:
Moving in together
Moving in together is an exciting time in any relationship. But did you know that when you have been living together for a couple of years, you may be entitled to part-ownership of each other’s assets (including property)—even if you’re not married?
Speak to a lawyer before you cross the threshold, and find out how you can protect yourself from any surprises in the future.
Getting married
With about 50% of marriages ending in divorce, it makes sense to have some insurance.
A prenuptial agreement is like insurance for your marriage. It acts as a safety net against major financial damage by documenting who owns what if your relationship ever breaks down. Prenups aren’t as scary as TV makes them out to be. They are a lot more common than you think.
To find out if one is right for you, talk to a family lawyer today.
Growing your family
When you decide to adopt a child or use a surrogate, where do you start? Will you have full parental rights? If using an overseas surrogate, will your child even be an Australian citizen?
Speaking to a family lawyer who works specifically in adoption and surrogacy is the first step to ensuring you think of everything when growing your family. Let your lawyer worry about the logistics, so you can enjoy every moment of your new addition’s journey.
Separation and divorce
Sometimes relationships end, no matter how hard we try. Having children, property, or business involved adds extra layers of complexity and emotion.
With a family lawyer’s guidance and advice, you can be assured that all your interests will be protected, while you focus on getting yourself and your loved ones ready for the next chapter. And you may not even need to go to court.
Child custody
Separation is tough. But worrying about seeing your children is tougher.
Family lawyers protect their clients’ rights as mums and dads. Involving a lawyer, post-relationship, means knowing your child’s best interests will rise above any of the financial matters, and that you can just focus on being mum or dad.
Domestic violence
We are at our most vulnerable in our homes, so domestic and family abuse are particularly insidious forms of violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse at the hands of a family member or partner—and the abuse including threat to life is happening right now call 000.
If it’s not an emergency, call Policelink on 131 444 (24 hours, 7 days).
For more resources and support, visit the Queensland Government website.
If you have been charged with a domestic or family violence offence, read more here.
If you or someone you know needs crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.