Coming to see a family law lawyer (or any lawyer for that matter) for the first time can be a little daunting. What will they be like? Will I understand what they are saying? Is this really happening? Are all questions you might ask. It is completely common for a person to be nervous prior to starting down this path but hopefully the following information will help you feel more at ease.
If you are coming to see us, please read through our previous blogs as you may find some of the information there useful to your situation. It is also a good idea before your appointment to write a chronology. This will help us get a brief understanding of your relationship and may help you during the appointment if you become overwhelmed and are unable to remember key dates.
For property matters, some things to think about before your appointment with us is as follows:-
- Write a list of assets and liabilities (what you own and owe) as best as you can. Sometimes you might not know the whole property pool and that’s okay, we will help you with this.
- What are your financial needs and your ex-partner’s?
- What did you each have prior to the relationship commencing?
- What did you contribute during the relationship? Carrying out home duties / caring for the children is just as important as earning a full time wage.
- Did either of you receive an inheritance or win the lotto?
- How old are you both and is there any ongoing medical needs?
- Will you continue to earn income in the future?
- If there are children, how will they continue to be supported?
It is not critical to bring documentation to the first appointment, however, if you have it, then please consider to bring the following:-
- Marriage certificate
- Documentation showing the financial circumstances of both of you
- Any agreements entered into between you both such as a Binding Financial Agreement or Consent Orders
- Any letters, emails, text messages or other communication that has been had with the other party trying to resolve the matter
If your matter relates to the time spent with children, please give consideration to the following:-
- Create a calendar with any important dates such as school commitments, extra-curricular activities, parents rosters etc.
- What were the care arrangements for the children during the relationship? Will this continue to work now that you are separated?
- Are there any concerns about the children’s safety or where they might live when with the other parent?
- Have you looked into childcare options or are you able to call on to relatives for assistance?
- Can any arrangements be made easily with the other parent in regards to birthday, Christmas and the like?
- Do the children have any ongoing health or medical needs?
- Are you and the other parent able to co-parent in the best interests of the children? Is communication easy or strained?
Again, it is not critical to bring the following documentation with you to the first appointment, however, if you do have it with you, please bring it with you and we can take a copy:-
- Children’s Birth Certificate’s
- Health care or pension card
- Parenting Plan’s or previous Court Orders
- Any letters, emails, text messages or other communication that has been had with the other parent trying to resolve the matter
- Court material filed by the other parent (if applicable)
- Any Domestic Violence Orders
- Federal Dispute Resolution Certificate if you have attended mediation previously
- Any correspondence from DOCS if you have had dealings with them
If you have any questions regarding the above or would like more information, please contact us on
3161 2762 to discuss or make an appointment.
