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Introduction In family court applications, parties sometimes believe that the Court will make a decision based upon the application of the party that the Court prefers. It is important however to understand the role of the Court in reaching a final decision whether for parenting arrangements or […]

Introduction Family Lawyers are often asked by parents (usually, the primary caregiver for a child) about their ability to change their child’s surname, after separation or divorce.   As with matters relating to the child’s education, religious upbringing and health, a child’s surname (and any change made […]

Many factors are taken into consideration when making orders for property division, but can a history of domestic violence towards your partner or children impact the final outcome? If the Court is convinced of Domestic Violence  in the marriage, it is likely to consider it while determining […]

Introduction Sexual abuse in parenting proceedings and related allegations must be addressed on the evidence before the Court. In appropriate cases, a Court may determine that compelling inferences are open on the evidence before it. Where allegations of sexual abuse in parenting proceedings are made in relation […]

Introduction Drug use by a parent is a matter that is considered by the family courts when determining what living arrangements are in the best interests of children. A parent’s struggle with drug use can have a hugely detrimental impact on their relationship with their children. There […]

Background In the recent case of Lysons & Lysons and Anor [2019] Fam CAFC 29, the Full Court of the Family Court found that the primary judge had not erred in refusing a Mother’s application to change her child’s name. The child, X, was born in 2016 […]

Introduction A property settlement is an arrangement made between parties to divide assets, liabilities, and financial resources when a couple separate. Assessing contributions for property settlement is a significant element in working out what is an appropriate way to divide assets following separation. Generally, in a long-term relationship, […]

Introduction A case guardian, referred to as a litigation guardian in the Federal Circuit Court, may be appointed to conduct a case on behalf of a party to a family law matter where a party is unable to act for themselves. The role of a case guardian […]

Introduction Final parenting orders discharge all interim orders. Once final parenting orders are issued, the family court may not hear a parenting application seeking only interim orders. The Court can however hear a fresh parenting dispute. However, a parent cannot make an application for only interim orders […]

Introduction In Australia, we have a multicultural society. As our society becomes increasingly globalised, marriages and de facto relationships between people who originate from or travel to and live in different nations are becoming more common. In such circumstances, it is increasingly the case that when these […]