Martin Bullock Lawyers knows that the end of any relationship is a difficult time.
Divorces can be both emotionally and financially draining. On top of that, legal issues involving children, property and spousal maintenance can create even more stress.
In Australia, one in three marriages end in divorce. Since 1975, the only ground needed for a divorce is that a marriage has “broken down irretrievably”. This has made divorces less expensive, fairer and far more accessible, especially for women.
Either party to a marriage can apply for a divorce if this ground is satisfied by the parties being separated for at least 12 months. For marriages of less than two years, you must first attempt marriage counselling before applying for divorce.
If there are children, the Court must also be satisfied that they are being properly cared for, and the arrangements made for the children must be disclosed. The issues of most concern to the Court are contact by the child with both parents and child support. The Court also considers housing and education.
Applications for divorce are brought in the Family Court or the Federal Magistrates Court. To file an application for divorce, you will need your marriage certificate, and may also need to prove your citizenship.
After preparing, signing and filing the divorce application, the Court decides a hearing date, and a divorce usually becomes final or “absolute” one month after the decree has been made in Court. In the following 12 months, it is crucial to commence property or spousal maintenance proceedings.
It is important to get legal advice if you want the best possible outcome, and Martin Bullock Lawyers are experts in family law.
Martin Bullock Lawyers will provide you with expert and impartial advice to get the best possible outcomes in such a difficult time, and can also refer you to any other support services you may need.
If you are currently going through a separation or divorce and need legal advice, contact Greg Martin or Jacqueline Wainwright on (02) 9687 9322.