Family Law
Hannah Smith has substantial experience as a practising lawyer and also a lecturer at RMIT in the area of family law. Spectrum Lawyers can advise you and assist you in matters from separation and divorce, property and financial settlements, children’s matters and dispute resolution. Hannah is extremely experienced in working with clients to achieve an outcome in the interest of her client (and children, where they are involved)
We offer a free no obligation 30 minute consultation with Hannah Smith so you can have an opportunity to see if Spectrum Lawyers is the right law firm for you during this difficult time.
Separation and Divorce
Separation and divorce is often an emotional and difficult time. A divorce is an order made by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, which formally ends a marriage. We can assist with all steps in obtaining a divorce including completing the Court application, serving the application on the other party and appearing in Court.
While the process to obtaining a divorce is generally straightforward, the assistance of an experienced family law can be invaluable to ensure you also understand the consequences of a divorce, particularly where you have not yet divided your property and assets. We can provide you with legal advice and help you navigate these issues.
Property Settlements and Binding Financial Agreements
When marriages or de facto relationships break down, there are often assets and property which must then be divided. Spectrum Lawyers can advise you on how assets and liabilities should be divided, whether you were married or in a de facto relationship, and in the unique circumstances of your particular relationship.
Where appropriate, Spectrum Lawyers is focussed on endeavouring to resolve matters outside of Court and reaching the most favourable outcome possible through negotiation and mediation between the parties. We can then help you to formalise any agreement reached by way of a Binding Financial Agreement or Consent Orders.
If you are unable to reach an agreement, our lawyers can assist you in preparing Court documents, appearing in Court on your behalf and assisting you throughout your matter from start to finish.
Spousal or De Facto Partner Maintenance and Child Support
At Spectrum Lawyers, we understand that family law matters can be deeply personal and emotionally challenging. Our dedicated team of legal professionals is committed to guiding you through every step of your case with compassion and expertise.
If your partner has been financially supporting you throughout your relationship, you might be able to claim ongoing spousal or partner maintenance. The Court will look at numerous factors in determining whether such maintenance is appropriate including but not limited to the age of the parties, income, property and financial resources of the parties, children of the relationship, the standard of living of each party and the duration of the marriage or relationship. It is important to obtain legal advice before considering making an application for maintenance.
We can also advise you on child support matters including Binding and Limited Child Support Agreements. Whether you are seeking to establish, modify, or enforce child support arrangements, or need assistance with spousal maintenance issues, we are here to provide clear, practical advice and effective representation.
Parenting and Custody
When relationships end, there is sometimes disagreement as to who children of the relationship should live with and the time they should spend with each parent. Any arrangements for your children should be focussed on what is in the best interests of the children.
At Spectrum Lawyers, we offer expert guidance in navigating the complexities of parenting arrangements and work closely with our clients to develop practical solutions that prioritise the best interests of your children, ensuring fair and sustainable outcomes.
Whether you’re seeking advice on parenting plans, consent orders, resolving disputes, or modifying existing arrangements, we provide compassionate, tailored support every step of the way.
Family Violence and Intervention Orders
Unfortunately, family violence can be a common element in family law matters. Our experienced lawyers can advise you in relation to matters involving family violence, including the implications for parenting matters and the process of obtaining a Family Violence Intervention Order.
If you are experiencing family violence, we can advise you on your legal options and help ensure you have the protection required. This includes assisting you with an Application for an Intervention Order with the Magistrates Court and appearing on your behalf in Court. We can also assist in referring you to other services that might be able to assist you.
If you have been served with a Summons to appear in Court in relation to an Intervention Order, we can also assist you by appearing in Court or endeavouring to resolve the matter as efficiently and effectively as possible. This can include agreeing to an Undertaking, Consenting to an Order without Admission or appearing in a Contested Hearing.
We understand that family law matters can be very stressful and emotional, and Spectrum Lawyers is here to advise you and simplify the process. Once we have a full understanding of your requirements, we can provide you with options, fee estimates and a strategy for your family law matter.
Contact us for more information.