Following the end of a relationship or marriage, child support (or child maintenance) is usually paid on an ongoing basis. Periodic payments made by a parent to the financial well-being of the child. In most cases, child support is paid by a parent or the partner of the parent; but in some cases, it may be payable where no relationship with the child has previously existed.

If you are looking into having a consent order for either a property, or settlement for how your child will spend time with each parent, we can help advise you. For a family court to accept an order, proposals must meet certain requirements and we can effectively and affordably advise you on the best way to make sure this is done.

In 2009, changes to the laws in Australia made it so that de facto relationships have similar rights and obligations as married couples. This means many of the same rules –including those related to finances and children – still apply. Same-sex relationships are viewed in the same way as de facto relationships under the law and have the same rights and responsibilities. Experienced divorce and Family Law lawyers at Divorce Lawyer Melbourne can assist with the divorce process for couples in de facto and same-sex relationships.

The family court has the power to grant personal protection orders to protect children, parents and others who regularly spend time with a child. These are similar to violence protection orders; however, these are granted through the Family Court rather than the Magistrates Court. Personal protection orders are often granted as part of a matter being heard by the Family Court to provide additional protection to the safety or well-being of the child or carer.

Divorce Lawyer Melbourne is ready and able to help you if both parties consent to reach an amicable, equitable and fair settlement in a timely manner, whether you were party to a marriage or a de facto relationship. We have over 40 years of experience in Family Law disputes and litigation. If no settlement is reached, we can help you through the legal pitfalls and Court processes. In many cases, with our vast knowledge and experience, we can help our clients reach fair, equitable and binding agreements.