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February 7, 2019 By Family Law Matters

Separation & Divorce – what to expect

When a couple separates, there’s a common belief that divorce is the first step.  Generally speaking, a couple has a lot to get through before getting divorced.

 

Divorce is in fact usually the final step in the family law process. The result being the legal termination of the marriage, and an emergence into the world as an individual.
 

 

Separation, Divorce & De Facto

Separation is the emotional and physical “splitting up” of a couple and can occur without getting divorced. It’s usually the first practical step after a break up, where one or both parties move out of the home, or otherwise begin living separate lives under the same roof.

Divorce is the formal and legal termination of a registered marriage. Once a divorce has been granted, parties only have one year to make an application to the Court for a property settlement. The main practical benefit of divorce, is that either party can remarry once the Divorce Order becomes effective.

A de facto separation does not require a formal termination, however there is a time limit of two years for the parties to make an application to the Court for a property settlement from the date of separation. This means that for de facto couples there is more time pressure in relation to the negotiation period for property settlement than that of a marriage if the parties require Court intervention.

Managing your Property and Parenting settlement during Separation and Divorce

We generally suggest that separated parties resolve their property settlement prior to filing for divorce. Property and divorce are essentially dealt with separately. The separation period is already stressful enough for those involved, and obtaining a divorce imposes a somewhat unnecessary time pressure of 12 months for the parties who have yet to finalised their property settlement.

A couple needs to be separated for 12 months before applying for a divorce, however separation can take as long as is needed. During the separation period a couple will usually attempt to settle any outstanding property and parenting issues which may arise out of the separation.

A property settlement occurs when the parties negotiate the division of their property. This may include decisions such as, ‘is somebody keeping the home?’ or ‘is it to be sold?’, ‘does the car registration need to be transferred?’ and ‘how do we divide the furniture and contents of the home?’. These negotiations can take anywhere between six months to many years, depending on the cooperation of the parties and the complexity of the property involved. Parties should answer these questions before filing for divorce, or before two years after separation for de facto couples.

It is helpful to determine parenting arrangements during separation as well, however there is no time limit for parenting to be finalised in the event parties require assistance from the Court.

How do I apply for a Divorce?

When the time comes to divorce, applying for a divorce is a relatively easy and quick process. The application can be done online through the Federal Circuit Court’s website.

Do I have to attend Court for my Divorce?

Where there are no children under the age of 18, or where the Application for Divorce is filed jointly, there is no requirement for either party to attend Court. If there are children under 18 and the application is a sole application, only filed by one party, then the person applying for the divorce will need to attend the Court on the date provided.

Timeline of Divorce

Date of Separation – the day a person expresses their intention to end the relationship.

Separation Period – where the parties negotiate the division of their property.

Application for Divorce – 12 months after separation – either party can apply for divorce.

Divorce Hearing – the day the Court hears your application and grants the divorce, this is generally four to six weeks after the application for divorce is filed.

Officially Divorced – A divorce will become effective one month and one day after the divorce is granted.

If you would like further advice on separation, property settlement, parenting arrangements, or divorce please call Family Law Matters on 02 9523 3007 or complete the contact form to arrange an initial consultation with one of our Solicitors.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: agreement, children, court, de facto, divorce, family law, negotiation, parenting, property, protection, relationship, separated families, separation, settlement, solicitor, split, tips and tricks, what to do

Just a few short words from our clients:

Kristy, thank you so much your assistance is invaluable.

C.W, Sutherland Shire

Hi Kristy, Just a short note to thank you and all the staff for everything you have done for me. The situation was to say the least traumatic, but having your team watching my back made it bearable.

R.C, NSW

About Us

At Family Law Matters, we understand that you may be experiencing a challenging time. It is our mission to help you navigate the process of your separation, or asset protection in a new relationship. Once all the legal aspects are complete, you are free to begin a new journey.

Established in 2002, we recognise the need in the community for a practical and sensitive approach to Family Law.

Why Family Law Matters?

Our philosophy is that it is in your best interests to settle your matter in a fair, sensible and practical manner. Family Law Matters achieve this by approaching each matter in a sensitive and practical way, by empowering you with the knowledge of your rights and responsibilities, and securing a cost-effective, equitable result.

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CRONULLA NSW 2230
CBD Appointments also available by request.
PO Box 192
CRONULLA NSW 2230

P (02) 9523 3007
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info@familylawmatters.com.au

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