Family law settlement    

Three easy steps to making a family law settlement

Step 1 - Assessment and recommendation

Start by calling our Legal Help Line on 1800 555 777 to speak to a client services consultant who will give you information that will help you decide on the best course of action for your circumstances.

This may involve arranging a confidential meeting with a family lawyer to discuss your matter in greater detail. The first 40 minutes of your initial consultation with a family lawyer is free, as part of our service to you.

The consultation will give you with the opportunity to find out more about the law, your entitlements and discuss the different options available to you. If your concerns relate to property matters, you may be asked to bring documents such as tax returns, bank records and superannuation statements

A legal costs agreement, providing an outline of potential legal costs and how they will be calculated, will be sent to you to confirm our preparedness to act on your behalf.

Step 2 - Preparing to take action

Preparing to take action will include gathering information about your matter and may involve requesting financial documentation, and a summary of the history of the relationship between you and your partner.

We constantly undertake a cost / benefit analysis to ensure that a proposed action is in your interests, help you to decide whether or not to commence court action or to make, accept or reject an offer.

Step 3 - Negotiation and/or court hearings

In some cases a dispute between you and your partner can be resolved without court action by negotiation. If, however, it is necessary to go to court, Slater & Gordon have the skill and experience in litigation to guide you through the complexities of court proceedings.

The commencement of legal proceedings will result in the parties getting together to discuss resolution of the case. If the matter is successfully resolved all court proceedings are withdrawn. Remember, only a small percentage of cases result in a final court hearing, but if this does happen Slater & Gordon will prepare your case and ensure you are well informed of:

• Relevant court processes
• The likely length of legal proceedings
• How to prepare to give evidence
• What to expect during cross-examination

Preparation will also involve engaging a barrister to represent you at court as well as arranging the attendance of any witnesses. In some circumstances if you are unsuccessful in your court case you may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. Your family lawyer will be able to advise you about this.