Areas Where a Family Lawyer Can Provide Assistance

Usually the approach of family lawyers in Melbourne is to achieve amicable resolutions using alternative dispute resolution processes. Often, this can remove the need to go to court, saving time, stress and money. But when litigation is already in process, or cannot be avoided, family lawyers can provide experience, wisdom and strategy. They can address trying issues that would be difficult for you to address alone. There are various areas where family lawyers in Melbourne can help, including:

 Divorce

Divorce is an emotionally trying time, but during this time, you also need to pay attention to legalities and important paperwork. If there are children involved, then custody and parental arrangements need to be considered. If you’re separating or divorcing, you could be feeling unsure of what to expect. Family lawyers in Melbourne can guide you through the process, giving you a clear idea of the next steps to take.

Intervention Order 

If you’ve experienced family violence, or been threatened somehow, you can ask the court for an intervention order for protection. Family lawyers in Melbourne can assist you in your request for an intervention order and can represent you if you receive a summons to appear in court. Your initial request will be done in the Magistrate’s Court. Intervention orders come in two kinds – Personal Safety Intervention Order and Family Violence Intervention Order. Whether you’ve received a summons or wish to request an intervention order, a family lawyer can help you. 

 Children and Parenting

The intent of the law is to follow what’s in the child’s best interest when it comes to divorce or separation arrangements. The best thing to do is to discuss the situation with your partner or other family members, and if this cannot be done, you may need to take advantage of mediation type scenarios. It’s better when things can be worked out in an amiable way, as this is advantageous for the children as well. Once you have a spoken agreement in place, it can become legal currency with the help of your family lawyers in Melbourne. 

Asset Division

Already separated, or planning to separate soon? Then you’ll need to get your financial matters organised. This can be a relatively simple or complex affair, depending on your situation. If you have a lot of assets, it could be confusing. On the other hand, you might feel that you’re getting the short stick and would prefer representation so that you get your due in assets. Another area where family lawyers in Melbourne can help is where parties don’t agree on the division, providing assistance with mediation or court representation.  

Separation

After making the decision to undergo separation, most parties simply want to get through to the end with as less stress, worry and anger as possible. In other words, they want to do things in a quick and amicable way. Separation can be a difficult time for couples and their children alike. Good family lawyers in Melbourne will be sensitive to the emotional climate of the family they’re working with, being sensitive and working to get their client the best result.