How to Appeal Family Court Decision - Grounds and Process in Australia 03.12.24 Receiving a family court decision that feels unjust or inaccurate can be overwhelming.  Thankfully, the Australian legal system provides a mechanism for a family law appeal, enabling a higher court to review decisions made in the lower courts. 

Relocation with Children After Separation in Australia 02.12.24 Relocating after divorce, particularly when involving children can be a complex issue within the Australian within the legal framework. When deciding to relocate with a child and/or children to a new location, the relocating parent will need to consider the child's best interests. This article will explore the legal framework surrounding relocation with children after separation, and important factors for parents to you should consider.

Airport Watchlist - How Does it Work and Placing Your Child on There 02.12.24 Family Law matters involving the relocation of a child is a realm where the well-being of children is at stake, and expert guidance is essential. The Family Law Airport Watchlist is designed by the legal framework to prevent the unlawful removal of children from Australia, enabling parents to apply for court orders to have their child's name placed there. This article will explore how the watchlist works and the terms in relation to placing your child on the watchlist.

New Coercive Control Laws in New South Wales and What Do They Mean For Family Law 22.11.24 New coercive control laws in New South Wales are transforming how domestic violence is addressed in both criminal and family law. Designed to protect victims and hold offenders accountable, the full impact of these changes is yet to be unveiled. In this article, Lawyer Avalon Carnall explores how these laws influence parenting and property disputes, providing valuable insights for those navigating family law challenged.

Grandparents Rights in Australia: Custody and Access Explained 21.11.24 Family breakdowns or disputes can see the disruption of relationships with other significant members of a child’s life, including a connection with their grandparents. As a result, the Court recognises this important relationship between a grandparent and a grandchild and offers grandparents the rights to seek access through applying for parenting consent orders. This article explores the legal framework surrounding the rights of grandparents in family law proceedings.

Dating after Divorce: Legal Considerations for New Relationships 19.11.24 Starting a new relationship after divorce? This can bring both legal and emotional considerations and understanding these implications of new relationships after divorce if crucial for protecting your interests and those of your children. This article will assist you in navigating the legal landscape confidently with expert guidance on timing, property protection and children’s matters. Our Sydney family lawyers explain key considerations and safeguards for your new chapter.

How to Draft a Parenting Plan: Tips for Australian Families 15.11.24 Creating a parenting plan is an essential part of your family law matter in ensuring a smooth transition for your child. Accommodating the best interests of your child and their physical and emotional needs is crucial when determining the terms of your parenting plan. This article will navigate the different factors that you and the other party should consider when creating an arrangement that will best support your child’s needs, as well as provide tips for Australian families to ensure their parenting plan is effective.

New Changes to Property and Maintenance Provisions in Family Law 11.11.24 The Family Law Act is set to undergo significant updates, making it clearer and more accessible for everyone involved in property and maintenance matters. Key highlights include addressing family violence when assessing contributions and consideration of material wastage and liabilities incurred by parties when making final property orders. This article will explore the new amendments in further detail.

What is a Parenting Consent Order versus a Parenting Plan? 11.11.24 In Australian family law, parents navigating post-separation arrangements have two primary options for formalising their parenting agreements: Parenting Consent Orders and a Parenting Plan. While both aim to ensure the well-being and best interests of the child, they differ significantly in terms of legal enforceability and flexibility. This article explores the differences between these two options, helping parents understand which might be more suitable for their situation based on factors like enforceability, flexibility, and the level of formal legal involvement required.

Mapping the Child Support Departure Maze - Part 2 08.11.24 In Part 2 of their series, Paul Lewis, Katherine Evans, and Charlotte McGrath outline the grounds for departing from standard child support assessments under Australia’s Child Support Scheme. While assessments typically follow a formula based on income and child needs, Section 117 of the Child Support (Assessment) Act allows exceptions in certain cases. Grounds for departure include high access costs, special needs, expected education expenses, the child’s financial resources, and significant parental contributions.

What is an Independent Children's Lawyer and Their Role? 05.11.24 In family law proceedings, the best interests of the child are paramount throughout any considerations. The Independent Children’s Lawyer plays a fundamental role in representing and promoting these interests. They offer an impartial and independent perspective to any decisions and arrangements proposed during your family law matter. This article will navigate the role and responsibilities of the ICL, as well as tips for preparing your child prior meeting with an ICL.

Who Gets to Keep the Family Pet When You Separate? The New 2024 Family Law Amendments 31.10.24 In recent years, pets have come to be seen as important members of the family. This shift in how society views pets has raised questions about pet ownership during family law disputes, especially in Australia. When couples go through the emotional challenges of separation or divorce, one question often comes up: who gets to keep the family pet? In this article, Partner Reece Ramsden explains how pets are treated under the Family Law Act and shares recent updates in the law on this issue.