Family Law Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions before booking? Here are some of the most common questions new family law clients ask.

Can you help me prepare or review parenting plans?

Yes. We can draft or review your parenting plan to ensure it’s clear, fair and focused on your child’s best interests. We’ll also make sure it reflects your family’s needs and complies with family law principles in Australia. 

We can also help you convert a parenting plan into consent orders, which are legally enforceable and therefore a stronger legal document.

Can you help me with my divorce application?

Yes. Divorce applications can be completed online and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia provides a step-by-step guide on how to do this.

Sometimes, however, a divorce application is not straightforward, for example, where you have been separated but still live together, or if you cannot get the other party to sign the application. In these more complex cases, we’re available to help you complete your divorce application.

I’m in the midst of finalising my divorce. Can you help me with advice about property settlement agreements?

Absolutely. We can explain how the division of assets is assessed and provide advice on what is potentially fair and will give you the best outcomes for your situation. We can also prepare or review settlement documents or consent orders to make sure your agreement is legally binding and protects your financial interests, now and in the future.

I think my matter needs to go to Court. Can you explain to me what is required and how to comply with the ‘pre-action procedures’?

Yes. Our advice consultations accompanied by a detailed letter of advice can be really useful here. We can discuss your situation with you, and go over what the Court process requires, including how to be sure that you have complied with the pre-action procedures. We can also give you guidance on what to do if the other party is not cooperating.

Can you help me if I’m already representing myself in my family law matter?

Yes. Assisting self-represented clients is exactly what we do, especially in family law matters. We can help you with expert help on discrete elements of your matter – whether that’s reviewing or drafting court documents, explaining court procedures and helping you prepare for appearances.

You stay in charge of your case, but we help you avoid mistakes and present it clearly.

What if my case becomes too complex?

If your situation does eventually require full representation, we will refer you to a trusted legal partner who specialises in ongoing family law matters. Of course, we will work closely with them to ensure continuity and clarity in your representation at all times.

Do you give advice before mediation or negotiation?

We do. A consultation before mediation can help you understand what to expect, how to prepare and feel confident about your approach. We can also help you understand your rights so you can define what’s reasonable to propose with the mediator and draft a summary of your position for you to refer to during the mediation itself.

Can you help me prepare consent orders after an agreement is reached?

Yes. Once you and the other party reach an agreement, we can draft or review consent orders to ensure they meet court standards and properly reflect what was agreed. This ensures your arrangement is legally enforceable. We can even assist you to file the consent orders with the Court once they are signed.

Can you tell me what my next legal step should be?

That’s exactly what our initial consultation is designed for. We’ll assess where you’re up to, identify key legal issues and outline your next practical steps so you can move forward confidently.

Something urgent has happened. Can you help?

If something urgent has happened, like you’re worried that your ex might be selling property prior to your financial settlement, or you’re concerned for your children’s safety or welfare, then we recommend booking in for an urgent advice appointment. If you cannot get an appointment on the same day and your matter cannot wait, you can email us directly on hello@unbundledlaw.com.au.

We can help you to identify possible next steps to manage your urgent situation yourself, or can refer you to trusted firms that can run your whole matter if you need a solicitor to step in and take over.

If you cannot wait for advice, because your matter is truly urgent or someone is in danger, then we recommend contacting the appropriate support services near to you such as the police (on 000), family violence support services or the duty solicitor at the Court.

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