We regularly write articles for our clients and our professional network to explain concepts and issues surrounding the separation and divorce process. We know that it is in your interests and in ours, for you to be as informed as possible about what is ahead for you.
This resource focuses on the immediate and longer-term needs of anyone going through separation, with a specific focus on finances and the division of property/assets.
We have compiled a series of excerpts from the most relevant articles along with links to learn more.
We have organised these into six sections:
- Your First Steps – What to Be Aware of Immediately Upon Separation
- The Property Settlement Process in Australia
- International Property Settlements
- Superannuation, Gifts & Inheritances and Trusts
- Dispute Resolution: Finances and Property
- Finalising & Formalising A Property Settlement
The information provided throughout this resource, is applicable both when married couples divorce and also when separation occurs at the end of a de facto relationship.
We hope you find this resource helpful.
What to Be Aware of Immediately Upon Separation
How To Financially Separate from a Spouse or Partner
As family lawyers who work with people going through separation and divorce every day we see where people can go wrong. The consequences can be significant, even in the most amicable of separations. We recommend some key steps you should take and things you shouldn’t do, in relation to your finances and your property settlement after separation here.
Why You Do Not Need to Wait 12 Months
The decisions that you and your former partner make and put in place informally now may be detrimental to you and those you care for, later down the track. Even people with the very best of intentions for each other can have the whole experience evolve differently to what they intended, through no intentional fault of either party. We explain why starting the property settlement process early is important, here.
The Property Settlement Process in Australia
How Divorce Settlements Are Worked Out
Figuring out who gets what in the property settlement process is rarely as easy as splitting everything down the middle. Seeking clarity about what to expect from the separation and divorce process, including the property settlement process is essential. Having this knowledge in your toolkit can help to minimise poor decision making, uncertainties and disputes. Go here for more information.
The Financial Disclosure Process
The very first step in the division of finances and property is the process of financial disclosure. Knowing what must be provided, what happens if the other person does not provide all of the required information, and what is important to consider if you wish to avoid a protracted battle over your finances and assets. Find the financial disclosure process here.
Why A Lawyer Cannot Give You A Precise Answer About Your Property Settlement
People often ask us what we think they will likely get upon the finalisation or their property settlement. Everyone likes certainty, especially when it relates to financial security. If any lawyer at your first meeting tells you that they can help you get an exact amount or an exact percentage, they are setting you up for failure. Why family lawyers should not give precise answers about your property settlement is explained here.
Processes to Get to an Agreement after Separation: Property and Finances
In the event you are close to an agreement but cannot get over the line to finalise your property settlement or you are in dispute about a number of issues, there are a range of methods and processes available to move the issues forward. These approaches can also be used if you need some of your immediate or short-term financial arrangements to be settled. Find our explainer about these processes here.
International Property Settlements
Separation and Divorce When You Have Assets in Australia and Overseas
There are unique considerations to be aware of when a separating couple has assets in Australia and overseas.
This can result in having to go through the property settlement process twice. To understand how that can occur and how to avoid that outcome, learn about what needs to be considered here.
Superannuation, Gifts, Inheritances and Trusts
Superannuation and the Property Settlement Process
Many people are unaware that superannuation is considered part of the property pool that is available for division in a property settlement. While this article was written for professionals and their clients, it is a helpful read to understand the way in which superannuation is treated in divorce (or a de facto relationship ending) and how the splitting of superannuation occurs in your property settlement must be considered with caution.
Learn about how family law treats superannuation here.
Gifts and Inheritances – How are they treated in a Property Settlement?
While this article was also written for professionals, it will provide insights into how gifts and inheritances can be treated in a property settlement. While it can be a complex area to navigate, to give you some easy to understand context, take a look at this article here.
Property Settlements and Trusts: What You Need to Know
Can trusts be considered assets that are available for division upon separation? Although this article was written for accountants and financial advisors, if you have interests in trusts, read on. We unpack what you should know about how the Family Law Court treats trusts here.
Dispute Resolution: Finances and Property
Separation & Divorce Without Court: The 4 Steps Before A Dispute Can Go To Court
Divorce without Court is achievable. The Australian Family Law Court system is now set up to help people resolve their property and parenting disputes before it can proceed to Court. We unpack the four steps that are now in place to reduce the pressure on the Family Court system and help people avoid the stress, costs and time delays that come with going to Court here.
Finalising & Formalising Your Property Settlement
Finalise A Property Settlement Before EFOY
In our work as family lawyers, each year we see a surge in requests to assist people who wish to finalise their property settlement in time for the end of the financial year. Learn why this is the case, how it is beneficial, what to be aware of that can hamper the process and what you need to get in motion. Additionally, learn when this may, or may not be possible, by reading this article here.
Financial Settlements Without a Lawyer
While many people hold the view that negotiating the terms of your property settlement should be done without the ‘interference’ of a lawyer, we want you to be aware of the risks that we have seen arise. While this article was written for accountants and financial advisors and their clients, it provides insights into how even the most amicable negotiations and agreements can turn sour. We invite you to be alert to the potential issues that we have unpacked in this article.
How to Get the Most Out of Your First Appointment with a Family Lawyer
As we have identified throughout this resource, there are significant advantages to seeking early advice from a specialist family lawyer.
Choosing your family lawyer is a decision that can have a significant impact on how your property settlement negotiations and resolution unfolds. We have compiled a list of considerations to help you select the right lawyer for you along with what to ask and what to prepare in the lead up to your initial appointment. Find that topic here.
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