we assist couples or families resolve issues arising from separation, both respectfully and without court intervention.

Collaborative law is a process that aims to minimise the costs, delays and trauma associated with separation and divorce.

as lawyers specialising in collaborative law we have extensive experience and training in:

  • Using a cooperative approach to identify issues and information that couples need to make an informed decision.
  • Helping to focus on solutions that consider both partners’ interests and needs, while taking into account legal rights.
  • Allowing couples to speak openly and honestly with each other about their concerns with any proposal for resolution.
  • Aiming for solutions that assist to preserve the parental relationship.

No one loses any rights by attempting to resolve the dispute collaboratively. If a matter is not able to be resolved collaboratively, we can commence proceedings in court in the traditional adversarial process.

once both partners have agreed to use the collaborative process:

  • The first step is for each member of the couple to meet with their lawyer individually to identify the issues that need to be resolved.
  • What follows is a number of meetings involving the couple and their lawyers with the aim of working together to find a solution that is mutually acceptable, fair and legally justified. Sometimes it may be appropriate for accountants or valuers to be involved at these meetings to ensure that the parties have accurate information to work with. In some cases where children are involved it may be of benefit to obtain advice about cooperative parenting from a specialist family therapist.
  • Once an agreement is reached binding formal documents are prepared to set out the details of the agreement and put it into effect.

Our aim is to try to limit the trauma, expense and time involved in sorting out very important legal issues at an incredibly challenging time of people’s lives.

initial consultation.

The simplest and most cost-effective way for us to help you plan the best way forward for your family is for you to meet with one of our solicitors. Only by meeting with you and discussing this in detail, can we recommend the right plan for you and your family.

costs.

We will discuss costs in detail with you and give you an estimate as part of our initial consultation. We offer Fixed Fees for many of our Family Law services and may be able to offer Deferred Payment on some matters.

get started online.

If you wish, you can provide us with some background details straight away. This will give you some helpful, personalised information now, while allowing our Family Law solicitors to spend their first meeting with you giving you advice and information tailored specifically to your circumstances.

support services.

We encourage you to talk to and rely on the support of family, friends and professional services.