Family Law Services
At North Shore Family Lawyers, we assist clients across a range of family law matters, from parenting and separation to matters involving complex financial arrangements, business interests and structured assets.
Some matters are relatively contained. Others involve a broader financial picture — including trusts, companies, superannuation, liabilities and issues of disclosure, control and valuation. Our work is shaped by the nature of the matter and the level of detail it requires.
Property Settlement
Property settlement after separation is rarely straightforward. For some people, the financial issues are limited. For others, they involve a wider structure of assets, liabilities and financial resources that needs to be carefully identified, understood and addressed.
Property settlement is legally separate from divorce, although the issues often arise alongside one another after separation. In practice, many matters involve questions of financial disclosure, records, debts, superannuation and how any outcome is formalised.
We assist clients in property settlement matters by helping them understand their financial position, identify what is relevant to the outcome, and move forward in a measured and informed way. Where matters can be resolved by agreement, there are established pathways to formalise that outcome. Where they cannot, the issues may need to be addressed through the broader family law process.
Complex financial matters, including companies and trust structures
Some family law matters extend beyond the ordinary division of assets. They may involve corporate structures, trust arrangements, superannuation interests, financial agreements, or third‑party property issues.
In these matters, the issues often sit at the intersection of legal analysis and financial structure. We assist clients by providing clear guidance on how those elements interact — including ownership, control, records, and how different structures may be treated within the family law framework.
The focus remains on helping clients navigate complex financial positions with clarity and an understanding of the practical outcomes available.
Parenting Matters
Parenting issues following separation are often the most immediate and personal matters a family faces.
The law focuses on the best interests of the child. In practice, these matters can involve where children live, the time they spend with each parent, decision‑making about major issues, and concerns relating to communication, safety, or stability.
We assist clients with a focus on developing workable arrangements and a clear understanding of the issues involved. This includes identifying what needs to be addressed, understanding the legal framework, and considering practical arrangements over time.
Where matters can be resolved by agreement, this can provide stability for everyone involved. Where they cannot, more formal steps may be required.
Divorce
Divorce is the legal end of a marriage. In Australia, it is a no‑fault process, meaning the Court does not consider why the marriage ended. The key question is whether the marriage has broken down irretrievably, usually evidenced by at least 12 months of separation. It is possible to be separated while living under the same roof.
Divorce is separate from parenting arrangements and property settlement, although these issues often arise together following separation. It can also affect important time limits for financial matters.
Before granting a divorce, the Court must be satisfied that appropriate arrangements are in place for any children under 18, or that there is a sufficient basis for the divorce to proceed.
We assist clients with divorce applications and how divorce fits within the broader family law framework.
Binding Financial Agreements
Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) are private, legally enforceable agreements made under the Family Law Act 1975 that allow parties to determine how their financial affairs will be managed during a relationship or divided if the relationship ends.
A BFA can be entered into before, during, or after a marriage or de facto relationship, and may deal with matters such as property, liabilities, superannuation, and spousal maintenance.
Unlike court orders, a BFA is a private contract between the parties and, if properly prepared, can avoid the need for court intervention by setting out agreed financial outcomes in advance.
Consent Orders
Consent orders are legally binding orders of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia made by agreement between the parties. They formalise arrangements relating to parenting, property settlement, and financial support without the need for a contested hearing.
Where agreement has been reached, an application for consent orders may be filed with the Court, which reviews the proposed orders to ensure they are appropriate before making them binding.
Once approved, consent orders carry the same legal force as orders made by a judge, providing certainty and enforceability while allowing parties to retain control over the outcome.
Urgent Applications
In certain circumstances, a party may require urgent intervention from the Court where waiting for the usual process may result in harm, financial loss, or significant prejudice.
An urgent application asks the Court to bring a matter forward or make interim orders on a priority basis. This is typically supported by evidence explaining the nature of the urgency and the risks involved.
Urgent applications commonly arise in matters involving risks to children, family violence, threats of relocation, or the dissipation of assets. In appropriate cases, the Court may act quickly to address those risks.
Thoughtful First Conversation
Not sure where to go from here?
Whether your situation is straightforward or involves more complex financial or parenting arrangements, we can assist you in identifying the issues that matter and understanding the options available.
Arrange a consultation to discuss your circumstances.