FAQ
We are a small, primarily virtual firm. We have lower overheads and use technology creatively to keep costs down. This means we don’t have to charge high hourly fees like other family law firms do.
If you don’t want a fixed fee, upon request, we can bill you in 6-minute increments. Rates are $500 per hour for the Principal and $250 per hour for a junior lawyer. These rates are exclusive of GST.
We aren’t the formal types and we like our clients to feel relaxed and comfortable. We meet with many of our clients at local cafes – and we shout the coffee!
If you prefer a more formal location, we have access to office locations during business hours. We can also come to your workplace if that is convenient for you.
We also offer online appointments via ZOOM.
Yes. We do not take on matters where allegations (including historical allegations) of domestic or family violence, including child abuse, have been made (by either party).
We do not provide representation for domestic violence matters in the ACT Magistrates Court.
If you present as combative or adversarial (for instance, if you said to us “I want to make my ex pay”) . We aren’t a good mix.
Possibly. It depends on your specific circumstances. While court is sometimes necessary, we prefer a solution-focused approach that considers both parties in a fair and equitable solution. If you do have to go to court, we work with specialised court advocates (barristers) as required. We are happy to provide advice and guidance on court matters and assist in all aspects of document drafting.
We do not appear in Family Violence Order applications or hearings at the ACT Magistrates Court.
The Family and Federal Circuit Courts charge fees for filing documents (such as an Application for Divorce or Consent Orders). Further information about these fees can be found here.
Sometimes you might need a valuation of your property or your superannuation. These costs are usually several hundred dollars. We will provide you with the details of persons who can provide these valuations for you (should they be required).
A title search is required for financial settlements for all real property. Your first one is on us but if you have more than one property, for most State and Territories, you can purchase a copy of your property’s title online directly from the local State or Territory Land Titles Office. For properties in New South Wales, you will need to use third party providers such as InfoTrack. Alternatively, we can do it for you and bill you for the search.
Absolutely, many of our clients complete the questionnaires together. Alternatively, one of you can take on the responsibility to prepare the paperwork as best they can. If you decide to do it this way, we recommend you ask your former partner to complete this form and send it back to you before you get started.
The court requires you both to have an clear understanding of each other’s finances before finalising any property settlement agreement. Check out our blog on financial disclosure here where we explain it in more detail, and the Family Court website.
Yes! Our online settlement solution Forward>> is available to couples Australia-wide*. If you engage us and live outside of the ACT, we can stay in touch with you online via Zoom or over the phone.
*As WA has different legislation, the process and pricing is a little different. If you live in WA, you will need to contact us to discuss your particular situation.
We believe in the power of teamwork! A faster, fairer and more affordable separation is more likely if you can find common ground and finalise matters together.
While we prefer to work with both parties to reach a fair solution, we get that this not always possible. We are here to work with you and tailor our approach to best suit what your needs
There is no legal requirement to obtain legal advice if you have reached an agreement and decide to make your agreement official through consent orders.
If you’re unsure of your next steps, we strongly recommend you obtain some independent legal advice in relation to your situation. We can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities and also explain how the law applies to your situation.
No. We can only advise one party. However, we know some friendly family lawyers who would be happy to provide advice to your former partner and we are happy to pass on their details.
We cannot stress enough the importance of your former partner seeing an experienced family lawyer (not a general lawyer) trained in collaborative law. These lawyers will work with us (and not against us) to preserve peace and harmony for an amicable separation.