After over 30 years as a family lawyer representing clients in family breakdowns and disputes, I’ve heard and continue to hear many reasons for divorce. “We grew apart”, “We fell out of love”, “The spark is gone”, or “He/she cheated on me”. My role and obligation as a...Read More
During a marriage, many couples come to share most aspects of their life with their partners, such as children, finances, and possessions. And for some married couples, they also share in the ownership or operation of a business or commercial venture. While balancing...Read More
As a family lawyer, one wouldn’t be blamed for thinking that I only ever suggest that divorce is the right choice. I’ve seen my fair share of positive and negative divorce outcomes during my 35 years in practice, but no matter the outcome rarely is the journey through...Read More
Most people embroiled in family law disputes want to settle matters out of court, and with good reason. Court proceedings for family law disputes are notoriously long, complex, time-consuming and extremely stressful. And more often than not, very costly. It probably...Read More
Most married couples don’t expect to divorce, let alone have the prudence to plan for it. Whilst we’ve seen a recent drop in the Australian divorce rate, the statistics show that one in three marriages still don’t last. So, what happens when “I Do” becomes “To...Read More
If spring is the season to wed, research suggests summer is the season to separate. But does it need to be? A US study found that the national divorce-filing rate goes up in March and August of each year. In Australia, the peak period for separation is in February and...Read More
Starting a romantic relationship is an exciting time. The choice to take it a step further and commit to a long-term arrangement, either in a de facto relationship or in marriage, should be the decision of the couple. But, until recently, marriage wasn’t an option for...Read More
After their parents separate, should children have a say in what happens to them? The reality is that historically, in Australia, parents have tended to believe they can work out the arrangements without their children’s direct involvement. It is true that most...Read More
Most couples accept that they need to divide their property following the breakdown of their relationship. But what about their debts? Do they have to divide these too? Many people don’t consider the division of debt fair or necessary: Why should I have to pay his or...Read More
Marriage preparation or beginning a new defacto relationship can be a wonderful and exciting time, with much to plan and prepare. But there are important things to consider. There are bound to be new financial responsibilities and obligations, particularly if you are...Read More
