Byron Bay Family Law & Mediation Specialists practices exclusively in family law and mediation, offering full and ‘unbundled’ family law and mediation services.

Our accredited family law specialists and mediators are leading experts with the skill, experience and commitment to guide and support you through to the resolution of your dispute.

Separation

• We’ll provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about separating
• Use our online fixed fee divorce service to obtain a divorce quickly, cheaply and with minimal fuss, no matter your location in Australia or overseas

Children and Parenting

• Parental responsibility
• Living arrangements (custody and access)
• Relocation
• Rights of grandparents and others

Child Support, Child Maintenance and Adult Child Maintenance

• Child Support Agency change of assessment process
• Payments for children and adult children
• Binding Child Support Agreements

Property and Financial Settlements

• Division of assets
• Complex property settlements
• Business, company and trust structures

Superannuation

• Superannuation flagging and splitting orders
• Superannuation Agreements

Maintenance

Payments made to a former partner following separation

Financial Agreements

• To determine how your assets will be divided in the event of relationship breakdown
• May be used to terminate maintenance rights
• ‘Pre-nuptial agreements’, during relationship and following separation agreements
• De facto (including same sex) and marriage relationships

Asset Protection including injunctions and restraining orders

• For personal protection
• To prevent a person from entering or remaining in the home or other areas
• To preserve assets including sale proceeds and business operations
• To preserve superannuation

International Family Law Disputes

• International relocation
• International child abduction
• Hague Convention
• Registration of overseas parenting orders 
• International child support
• Registration and enforcement of overseas child and spousal maintenance orders
• International service of legal documents

Intervention Orders

• Legal strategies to protect against family violence

De Facto and Same Sex Relationships

Our ‘Unbundled’ Family Law Services

• Unbundling breaks up the family lawyer’s role into a number of agreed limited legal services
• Unbundling empowers the client to select only those legal services that they require
• Unbundling can limit the lawyer’s involvement to a single issue, court or mediation process including:
  • Advice only
  • Research only
  • Drafting letters or court documents
  • Reviewing client prepared letters and court documents
  • Negotiation coaching in preparation for mediation or settlement meeting
  • Negotiating on behalf of the client
  • Attendance at mediation or court appearance on behalf of the client
  • Drafting settlement agreements
  • Providing independent legal advice for financial agreements
• Supported by a written ‘unbundled limited scope engagement agreement’ (costs agreement)
• Fixed fees by agreement

The Family Law Guide For Australia – PDF Download

The Divorce Guide For Australia – PDF Download

Vanessa Mathews recently trained as a ‘Parenting Coordinator’ as an additional dispute resolution service offering.

Parenting Coordination is a post-separation child-focused dispute resolution process.

Parenting Coordination is suitable for separated parents who:

• Continue to have high levels of dispute regarding their children after the making of a Parenting Plan or Family Court Order (interim and final)
• Are transitioning from adversarial parenting to co-parenting
• Engage their children to express their dispute
• Experience difficulty with relationships
• Are at risk of:
• Not complying with the Parenting Plan or Family Court Order (interim and final)​
• Returning to the Family Court to re-litigate their dispute.

Parenting Coordination may assist separated parents who are experiencing difficulty:

• Co-parenting their children
• Making joint decisions about their children
• Communicating effectively with each other
• Implementing their Parenting Plan or Family Court Order (interim and final)
• Complying with their Parenting Plan or Family Court Order (interim and final).

A Parenting Coordinator may be jointly appointed by the parents or a Family Court Order.

A Parenting Coordinator is usually appointed for 24 months with monthly joint meetings.

The purpose and role of the Parenting Coordinator is defined within the Parenting Plan or Family Court Order.

​A Parenting Coordinator assists parents by:

• Facilizing the resolution of their disputes in a timely manner
• Reducing conflict between parents so as to protect the children from exposure to conflict
• Educating parents about their children’s needs
• Making recommendations for resolving disputes
• Case management.

Parenting Coordination is non-confidential and fully reportable to the Family Court​.

Safety concerns are addressed during Parenting Coordination.

If you would like to know more about Parenting Coordination or have a client whom you believe may benefit from Parenting Coordinator, please contact Vanessa on 1300 635 529 or [email protected]

Generally speaking, inheritances are not excluded or otherwise quarantined from the asset pool to be divided between separating parties, and will not automatically be allocated back to the party who received them.

Some of the relevant factors the Court takes into account are as follows:

Timing and length of relationship

For example, an inheritance received very early in a long relationship might not result in a significantly higher contributions assessment to the party who received it, because the other party might have made other contributions over the years which offset the effect of the inheritance.

An inheritance received late in the relationship or after separation in a short relationship, is more likely to result in a higher contribution assessment to the party who received it.

Amount received

The amount received – and compared with the asset pool to divide – will affect the Court’s ultimate decision.

For example, a smaller amount (say $20,000 inheritance in a pool of $1.5m) is less likely to result in contributions being assessed in favour of the party who received it than a larger amount (say $1m in a pool of $1.5m).

How it was applied

If the money was used for family holidays or otherwise spent and is no longer represented in the asset pool, it will carry less weight when assessing contributions than if it was used to purchase real estate or shares and those assets still exist at the time the Court is making a determination. It may also be relevant if the funds have been kept separate and not otherwise mingled with the parties’ assets.

Financial circumstances of the parties at the time the Court makes a decision

In a pool of $1m, where one party receives a post-separation inheritance of $500,000, it might not be just and equitable for one party to receive half of the net assets ($500,000) and the other to receive the other half plus the whole inheritance ($500,000 plus $500,000). The Court will consider the whole financial situation.

Inheritances received after separation

If one party receives an inheritance after separation but before property settlement has been agreed and formalised, the inheritance will be taken into account in the property settlement as the Court must consider all of the current financial circumstances at the time the determination is being made.

This is one of the reasons why it is recommended that separating parties finalise and formalise their property settlement as soon as possible.

This does not necessarily mean that the other party will receive a portion of the inheritance. The Court might determine that the other party made no contribution to the inheritance, but it will be taken into account and adjustments might be made in favour of the other party who does not receive the inheritance.

Future inheritances

A future inheritance will usually only be taken into account if the death of the testator is imminent.

As the inheritance has not yet been received, the Court could not include it in the asset pool, but can take it into account in assessing the respective future needs of the parties.

How can an inheritance be protected against claims by the other party?

Parties to a marriage or de facto relationship can protect future inheritances by entering into a Binding Financial Agreement which sets out how any inheritance would be dealt with in the event of separation.

If parties have separated and there is a possibility that one party will receive an inheritance in the future, it is recommended that they finalise their property settlement as soon as possible, and before the death of the testator.

Specialist Family Law advice is essential. Let your client know about our free initial telephone consultation service by calling Vanessa Mathews on 9804 7991.

We’re operating as usual at Byron Bay Family Law. If you have any questions or concerns about how COVID-19 may impact your client’s position in relation to their family law matter, call Vanessa Mathews on 9804 7991 or email [email protected].

Not surprisingly, Family Law clients are expecting business valuers to take into account the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in their valuation reports. This is a difficult, if not impossible, task where a valuer can only take into account information known or knowable at the date of valuation.

Most valuations currently being prepared would be based upon 30 June 2019 or 31 December 2019 figures. The existence of COVID-19 was not known as at 30 June 2019, and its impact upon the Australian economy (and specifically upon the business under consideration, which might be impacted negatively or positively depending upon the nature of the business) was not known as at 31 December 2019.

It is difficult to know when will be the right time to value a business as we do not know how long restrictions will continue or when the full impact of the pandemic will be identifiable. Other related complexities include the adjustments to reported results for trading and profitability which will be required over the affected period, and taking into account the temporary effect of government and bank concessions. Accordingly it is likely to be some time before a valuation can accurately reflect the full impact of COVID-19.

The current health climate has brought along with it a range of questions and uncertainties, and introduced additional pressures and stresses associated with the pandemic. To assist clients (and service providers alike) in navigating these times whilst simultaneously managing their family law matters, the following five points for clients to navigate Covid-19 can assist clients during this period and help to alleviate some of the associated uncertainties:

1. The Importance Of Parties And Practitioners Not Exacerbating Issues

Per the recent advice from the Legal Services Commissioner, it is imperative that whilst clients may be tempted to use present circumstances brought on by the global pandemic for their own personal benefit, practitioners have a duty to inform their clients that it is not appropriate to engage in sharp practice or exploit those who are vulnerable. For example, a client may be unreasonably withholding a child (contrary to a court order or parenting plan) on the basis that the child should not leave the home due to the pandemic. Parents should exercise their best judgement and a common-sense approach to determine what is, and what is not appropriate in the circumstances and seek alternative solutions, rather than exploiting the pandemic for personal gain.

2. Complying With Obligations

The pandemic does not provide an excuse for parties to ignore and unilaterally change their obligations pursuant to court orders and agreements. Unless a reasonable excuse applies, obligations to court order and/or agreements must be adhered to. In the event that a diversion from a current arrangement is unavoidable, again, parties should use a reasonable and common sense approach to find solutions to challenges. Affording the other party adequate notice if a change is anticipated, along with employing a solution-focused approach, will help to avoid unnecessary
conflict.

3. Seek Intermediate Solutions

Access to the courts and the resulting delay to the progression of matters is understandably a primary concern parties may be experiencing. As such, parties can seek alternative dispute resolution solutions for discrete issues that require a timely response. Byron Bay Family Law and Mediation Services is available to provide interim FDR (parenting) and mediation (financial) to address such issues, with sessions that can be tailored to meet the clients particular needs, including shorter or longer sessions depending on the complexity of the issues.

4. Be Adaptive, Cooperative And Solution-Focused

We are all currently being required to adapt to changes in circumstances, whether they be working from home, or meeting with family and friends digitally as opposed to in-person. If, in a parenting matter for example, time arrangements with a parent or other person is unable to occur, rather than cancelling that time altogether, seek alternative methods to meet those obligations, such as video conferencing and/or– other digital communications. Wherever possible, engaging in honest, open and pragmatic communication with the other parent will assist in navigating the difficulties with changed circumstances.

5. Stay Healthy – Mentally And Physically

The importance of maintaining your mental and physical wellbeing is imperative, particularly in circumstances where you are unable to do so in the manner that you are accustomed. If working from home, try to maintain a healthy balance by allocating specific work hours, taking regular breaks and establishing a dedicated workspace. Try to maintain an exercise routine – for example, following an online training class, or even taking a walk around the block.
If you would like to discuss your client’s particular interim issues and how Byron Bay Family Law may work with you to best assist and assure them, please contact us on 1300 635 529 or at [email protected].

Oftentimes, particularly in circumstances where parties to a separation are amicable and consider that they “get along well”, spouses divide their assets according to a personal agreement – that is, an agreement negotiated personally between the parties without the use of lawyers or the Australian courts.

Such an arrangement is not legally binging, and until an agreement is documented in one of the approved manners, the agreement is considered to be an informal agreement.

One of the most significant consequences of not formalizing your property settlement is the possibility that your former spouse is able to make an application for a property settlement in the future – one, two or even several years later. Being required to undertake a settlement years after your separation can have detrimental impacts on your financial and mental wellbeing and makes it difficult to plan your personal affairs. This is particularly so when as far as you knew, the matter was dealt with and is in the past.

It is important, and a principal consideration of the Australian courts, that parties finalize the financial aspects of their relationship so that they can get on with their lives.

How Do I Formalise A Property Settlement?

Australian family law affords former spouses (or parties to a de facto relationship) two ways in which they can formally finalize a property settlement. These are:

• 1.Making an application to the court for consent orders; or
• 2.Entering into a binding financial agreement (‘BFA’) (also colloquially known as a ‘pre-nap’).

To reiterate, an agreement is not legally binding unless and until it is is documented in one of these manners.

1. Consent Orders

Parties to a separation that have reached agreement about their property settlement are able to apply to the Family Court of Australia for orders to formalize the agreement so that it is legally binding. This application documents and details:

• The agreement reached by the parties; and
• Its practical application.

When considering an application for consent orders in respect of a property settlement, the Family Court must be satisfied that the orders proposed are just and equitable.

Although the parties are not required to obtain legal advice in relation to an application for orders, it is highly advisable that you do so, as the documents required are technical in nature, and the consequences of an agreement not being documented correctly can be costly and time consuming.

2. Binding Financial Agreements

Parties to a marriage or de facto relationship can enter into a binding legal agreement (essentially a contract) that details the financial arrangements should their marriage or de facto relationship break down.

A binding financial agreement can be entered into:

• Before marriage
• During marriage
• After divorce

A binding financial agreement is capable of covering:

• Property matters
• Financial support of a spouse (i.e. spousal maintenance), or the termination there of that is, to prevent a former spouse making an application for maintenance in the future should their circumstance change. This protection is not afforded solely by consent orders.

Unlike an application for consent orders, in order for a financial agreement to be binding, both parties must seek independent legal advice as to the effect of the agreement on the rights of either party and the advantages and disadvantages thereof. Additionally, and as distinct from an application for consent orders, a binding financial agreement is not required to be deemed as just and equitable by the Australian courts.

Other Important Considerations

You are not required to be divorced to formalize your property arrangements – in Australia, divorce is a largely administrative process and is distinct from property settlement matters.

You should also consider that when you are divorced, you have twelve months from the date that the divorce is granted to bring an application for a property settlement to the court. After this time, ‘leave’ (i.e. permission) from the courts to apply for property orders may not be granted, or may nevertheless be costly and time consuming to pursue. De facto couples have two years from the date of separation in which to apply to the court for property orders.

Where To From Here?

Our accredited family law specialists are available to assist in all matters pertaining to your property settlement and can advise as to the method that is most suited to your particular circumstances. If you would like to speak to one of our family law specialists about any of your family law matters, please contact us on 1300 635 529 or email [email protected] to arrange a free telephone consultation.

Child Custody – The Basics

The Australian legislature made significant changes to the way the courts approach custody issues in 2006. This legislation indicated a strong preference for parents to reach an agreement without resorting to litigation, and also for parents to enjoy shared parental responsibility.

Consistent with the legislature’s aims, you are required to attend family dispute resolution to reach an agreement before using the courts to determine your custody issues. After completion of family dispute resolution, you will be issued a certificate that must be filed with your application to the court for a parenting order. The court will not entertain an application without a certificate except for extreme circumstances (ie, threat of violence or abuse).

There are many dispute resolution methods you may use in order to reach an amicable agreement regarding custody. You may use the government sanctioned Family Relationship Centres and Family Advice Line, or you could use other methods such as collaborative law or arbitration.

Once you have completed the required dispute resolution process, you may apply for a parenting order. This order will address whom the child should live with, how much time the child spends with each parent, and the nature and type of communication the child should have with each parent among other issues. These orders are fully enforceable and failure to comply with a parenting order could have serious repercussions.

You may also reach an agreement with regard to parenting through something known as a parenting plan. A parenting plan is an informal agreement between parents that addresses similar issues that a parenting order would address. The major difference between a parenting plan and a parenting order is that the former is not enforceable like a court order and therefore the breaching party is not subject to the same sanctions.

Should you be unable to address your parenting issues through dispute resolution services or a parenting plan, you may litigate your case in court. There are certain procedural rules with regard to parenting proceedings that exist to make this process as smooth as possible for the child or children involved.

The main thing to keep in mind with regard to parenting is that all parties involved should be acting with the best interest of the child at heart. The court will apply this standard if asked to address parenting issues and it should also be the main consideration for parents when trying to settle their dispute.

Divorce is painful for everyone concerned, especially children. During this challenging period, children need love, support and contact with both parents.

Creating certainty about the future is crucial for children when their parents separate. Parents coming to a mutual agreement about parenting arrangements can help to provide clarity and certainty.

When parents agree

Following separation, parents may agree on a parenting arrangement that works for them and the children. The agreement should focus on providing for the needs of the children and may include financial arrangements.

A parenting arrangement can be agreed orally, in writing or put into a formal court order known as ‘consent orders’ (which requires an application to the court but does not require a court appearance).

When parents don’t agree

If parents can’t agree on parenting arrangements, they can apply to the court for a parenting order. Usually (except in the case of family violence and other specific circumstances), parents are not permitted to apply for a parenting court order until they have first attempted family dispute resolution (mediation).

The court’s primary concern will be to protect the children from psychological or physical harm. The court will address this before deciding about parenting arrangements.

The Australian Government has published a book to help develop parenting plans. This resource can help prepare clear, practical parenting arrangements that are focused on what’s best for the children.

What to consider when creating a parenting agreement?

When making parenting arrangements, parents may consider a range of issues including:

• The capacity of each parent to provide day-to-day care?
• The age of the children?
• The arrangements for the children before and after school and during  school holidays?
• Will the children spend their time with other significant people in their lives, like grandparents or other relatives?
• The children’s educational needs?
• Any cultural considerations?
• The special needs of the children, including educational and medical?
• The children’s wishes, having regard to their age and stage of development?
• Other practical considerations such as transport and accommodation expenses?

While a routine may be best for your children overall, flexibility is likely to be an essential ingredient of a parenting agreement.

Relocating with children

If you are thinking of relocating with your children at a distance that would dramatically affect the time they spend with the other parent, you will need to come to an agreement with the other parent. If agreement is not reached, an application to the family law courts seeking permission to relocate the children will be required.

The proposed relocation destination may involve moving intrastate, interstate or overseas. Consider how the relocation will affect the children’s relationship with the other parent and ask yourself the question ‘Would the move be in the children’s best interests?’ – the court will ask the same question.

What’s next?

Consider what is best for your children’s short-term and long-term wellbeing.

Work out what concerns need to be addressed in your parenting arrangement.

Decide whether you want the parenting agreement to be an informal oral or written agreement, a parenting plan signed and dated by both parents or a court order obtained by consent or by order of the court (judge made order).

Contact an accredited family law specialist or family dispute resolution practitioner to obtain the advice that you need to resolve your post-separation parenting issues.