Family Law

Facing Family Conflict or Separation? We Can Help You Find a Way Forward

Separation, divorce, and family disagreements can cause stress, confusion, and worry. You may be unsure of your rights or feel pressure to make decisions before you’re ready. In situations like these, getting legal support early can help you feel more in control.

Somerville Laundry Lomax helps people going through family changes. Our lawyers listen carefully, explain your options, and guide you through each step. We aim to protect your rights and support you in finding practical and fair solutions.

What You Should Know About Family Law in Australia

Family law in Australia deals with legal issues that affect couples, children, and families after a relationship breaks down. It includes divorce, parenting arrangements, child support, property division, spousal maintenance, and protection from family violence.

You can file for a divorce after being separated for 12 months. You do not have to prove who was at fault. The court only needs to see that the relationship has ended and will not continue. The law also allows couples to apply together or individually.

When children are involved, the law puts their wellbeing first. Parents are encouraged to make parenting arrangements that are safe, stable, and in the best interests of the child. If parents cannot agree, the court can decide for them.

Property settlement and financial matters must be dealt with separately from the divorce. There are time limits, so it is important to get legal advice early. A lawyer can help you understand what you are entitled to and how to protect your rights.

Why Legal Agreements Matter in Family Law

Many families make verbal or informal agreements during or after a separation. While this may seem easier at first, it can lead to problems later. Without a formal legal agreement, one person may change their mind, or misunderstandings may arise.

Legal agreements give both parties a clear record of what was decided. These documents can include parenting plans, financial arrangements, or property division. Courts can also approve these agreements as consent orders, making them legally enforceable.

You can avoid future disputes by putting your agreements in writing. A family lawyer can help draft fair terms, explain your rights, and make sure the agreement follows the law. This process can save you stress, time, and money in the long term.

How We Can Support You

Somerville Laundry Lomax helps clients with a wide range of family law issues. We provide advice and representation in:

• Parenting arrangements and child custody plans

• Separation and divorce filing

• Dividing property and handling joint finances

• Spousal maintenance and child support

• Family violence and intervention orders

• Consent orders and family law mediation

• Court proceedings when no agreement is possible

We explain the legal steps clearly. You will understand what to expect at each stage. Our team works to reduce stress and protect your rights.

Why Choose Somerville Laundry Lomax for Family Law

We have helped clients across the Northern Rivers, with combined experience of more than 100 years. Families trust us because we are calm, respectful, and honest. We take the time to understand your situation and provide clear legal advice.

Our lawyers are strong negotiators. We help you avoid court if possible, but we are ready to act quickly if your safety or rights are at risk. We treat every client with care and explain the law in simple terms.

You will not be left guessing. We keep you informed and help you make decisions that protect your future.

Speak With a Family Lawyer Today

If you need help with separation, parenting, or any family law issue, talk to us. We offer a free first consultation. We are ready to listen and help you take the next step.

You may contact one of our lawyers at [email protected] or call 02 6621 2481 for expert legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I lose my rights if I move out of the family home?
No. You still have legal rights to property, parenting, and support, even if you leave the home.

2. Can my former partner take the children without telling me?
No. If you do not have an agreement or court order, we can help you act quickly to protect your rights.

3. Do I need a lawyer to make a parenting plan?
You can write one without a lawyer, but legal advice helps you create a clear, fair, and enforceable plan.

4. Will I need to go to court?
Not always. Many family matters can be solved through negotiation or mediation. Court is used if an agreement cannot be reached.

5. What should I do if I feel unsafe in my relationship?
You can ask the court for an intervention order. We can help you apply and explain what protection the law gives you.