Family Law
Family Law
Separation is usually an emotional and difficult time for the parties and their children. There are a number of things to consider and a number of ways to achieve resolution.
Divorce
Married couples who separate usually want to end the spouse relationship. This can only be done by application to the Family Court. The Family Court of WA has an online application process for a divorce application, which parties can complete themselves if they wish. Parties must be separated for 12 months before they apply.
If your application is complicated by a short relationship, difficulties with service of the application on the other party, cohabitation after separation or if you want assistance with the application for any other reason, we can help.
Children, Property and Spousal Maintenance
Married or de facto couples may need to reach arrangements about their children, the division of their property and spouse maintenance after separation. These matters can be the subject of agreement and it may be necessary to formalise that agreement by application to the Family Court, or in some other manner. At jk legal we can help with the negotiation and formalisation of these arrangements.
If agreement cannot be reached, then we can explain the other options available for resolution of your matter. In some circumstances structured mediation can assist parties to reach an agreement, but where this is not possible, arbitration or court proceedings may be necessary. Our solicitors have the experience and expertise to assist you whatever course of action is required.
In the immediate aftermath of a separation you may also need some practical guidance about your next steps. Even where you might not be ready to start discussions with your former partner about the long term arrangements, we strongly recommend that you obtain some initial advice about your rights and responsibilities. In particular, you should be aware of the relevant time limits and what steps you may need to take to protect the assets, or yourself and/or your children.
Children's Issues
When you separate, you and your former partner may struggle to make appropriate arrangements for your children. We can provide advice on children’s issues, representation at mediation where appropriate, and assist with negotiations. If you are able to reach an agreement, the firm can assist in the preparation of the necessary documents or applications to formalise that agreement. We can also assist with the preparation, filing and service of any Family Court application in relation to your children and provide representation in Court if you are unable to reach an agreement, or if there is urgency in your matter.
We can assist in the following areas:
What our clients say:
"Hello to the team at jk legal. I would like to thank you for helping me to obtain Letters of Administration for the above Estate. I was really floundering before I found your office. You were all very helpful, understanding, king and most of all, professional. I seem to be on the right track now. Thank you All."
To Jude and the Team, Just a card to say thank you very much for the hard work and effort that you put into our case in order to get us the result we so desperately wanted and needed. We can now begin our new lives in Spain as a family…
"Dear Jude and Team, Thank you so much for the professional and supportive service you have provided to me over the last 11/2 years or so! You made what was a daunting and intimidating task that much easier and I am ever so grateful. I'll certainly refer you on to others who may need help"