Seeing a family lawyer doesn't mean you can't separate amicably

There’s a common misconception that speaking to a family lawyer automatically means you’re gearing up for a fight. In reality, most people want their separation to get finalised quickly and with as little emotional strain as possible. We are careful to ensure that our service meets our clients’ objectives. Getting legal advice early can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Every family and every separation is different, and the level of involvement from your lawyer can be tailored to your preferences. We can step in as much, or as little, as you need. For example:

• If you and your ex have already agreed on things and have started drafting settlement documents but you’re finding the forms confusing, we can help. Some clients simply want us to review what they’ve prepared and point them in the right direction. Others prefer that we handle drafting entirely to ensure everything is completed properly.
• If you’ve reached agreement in the division of property or parenting arrangements, we can advise on the best way to formalise that agreement. We’ll walk you through what needs to be included, how to record the settlement accurately, and what’s required to ensure the documents are legally binding.

You might also choose to speak with a family lawyer if:

• You have a tentative agreement but aren’t sure it’s right in your circumstances. We can give you advice on what might be reasonable in your circumstances, including what a court might order if the matter were to go through litigation.
• You have an idea of what you want, but you’re unsure how to get there. We’ll work with you to shape an agreement that reflects your goals and provide guidance on what can and can’t be included in different settlement documents.

The level of advice involved will depend on your situation and the kind of agreement you’re putting in place. Some clients only need help with the paperwork, while others need advice on the agreement itself and how it will operate in practice.

For some types of documents, such as a Binding Financial Agreement or a Binding Child Support Agreement, you and your ex must each obtain independent legal advice before signing. For other documents, like Consent Orders or a Parenting Plan, there is no requirement to engage a lawyer. Nevertheless, many people still seek advice to avoid mistakes and ensure the agreement is properly documented.

At Fulcrum Family Law our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions. Whether you want light-touch guidance or full support, we adjust our approach to what you need. If you have questions or want advice specific to your situation, we’re always happy to help. We’re ready to support you every step of the way.

Read more from us with ‘The Path to an Amicable Divorce: Finding Shared Goals from the Start’.