Dealing with family law matters can be one of the most challenging experiences in your life. Whether you’re facing a divorce, child custody dispute or property settlement issue, having an experienced and compassionate family lawyer by your side is crucial. At Linda Emery & Associates, we have over 30 years of experience providing expert family law services to clients across the Central Coast. Our team is dedicated to offering not only the legal expertise you need but also the empathy and support to help guide you through these difficult times. As your trusted Central Coast family lawyer, we ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and dedication.
Why Choose Linda Emery & Associates for Family Law Matters?
Family law cases can involve complex emotions, significant financial matters and, in many cases, children who are directly impacted by the outcome. Choosing the right Central Coast family lawyer can make all the difference in achieving a fair and positive resolution. Linda Emery & Associates is proud to be a trusted name in family law on the Central Coast, offering a personalised approach to each case.
Our team understands that every family law matter is unique. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your options in detail and provide strategic legal solutions that best suit your needs. Whether you are going through a divorce, need help with a child custody arrangement or are facing complex financial settlement matters, we are committed to protecting your interests and helping you secure the best possible outcome with the guidance of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Whether you are dealing with a simple matter or a more complex family dispute, our lawyers have the experience and skills to provide the legal representation and advice you need as a Central Coast family lawyer.
Divorce Support: Legal Expertise for a Fresh Start
Divorce is often one of the most stressful and emotionally taxing experiences a person can go through. The legal process can be overwhelming, especially if you have concerns about property division, child custody or financial settlements. When you choose Linda Emery & Associates, you are working with an experienced team that will help you navigate the divorce process with ease.
Our divorce lawyers will guide you through the necessary steps, ensuring that all paperwork is correctly filed and that you understand your rights and obligations. In addition, we will help you understand how the divorce process works, including how the court assesses issues such as property division and arrangements for children.
Securing Your Financial Future with a Binding Financial Agreement
A Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) is a crucial document that can help safeguard your financial future in the event of a marriage or de facto relationship breakdown. Whether you are entering into a marriage or de facto relationship, or if you are already in one, a BFA ensures that your assets and financial interests are protected.
A BFA is legally binding and sets out how property, finances and liabilities will be divided if the relationship ends. This can help you avoid lengthy court battles and ensure that both parties are aware of their financial obligations. Our experienced family lawyers at Linda Emery & Associates will explain the requirements for creating a valid BFA and guide you through the process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.
Additionally, we assist in terminating a BFA if the circumstances of the relationship change or if the BFA is found to be invalid. Our team will help you ensure that your financial rights are fully protected with the help of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Children & Parenting Plans: Protecting What Matters Most
When children are involved in a separation or divorce, the situation becomes much more delicate. As a parent, your primary concern is ensuring that your children’s best interests are looked after throughout the process. At Linda Emery & Associates, we understand the emotional strain that parenting issues can place on families, and we are here to help you create a parenting plan that works for everyone.
A parenting plan outlines the care arrangements for your children after separation or divorce. It can cover issues such as living arrangements, visitation schedules and decision-making responsibilities. Our family lawyers can help you create a parenting plan that works for both parents and ensures that your children’s emotional and physical needs are met.
If you are unable to reach an agreement with your ex-partner regarding parenting arrangements, we can help you seek a parenting order from the court. Our goal is to make sure that your children’s well-being is prioritised, and that a fair arrangement is reached with the assistance of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Legal Support for De Facto Relationships: Your Rights and Obligations
In Australia, de facto couples are treated the same as married couples under family law. If you and your partner have been living together for a significant period and are separating, you have the same legal rights and obligations as married couples in matters like property division and spousal maintenance.
At Linda Emery & Associates, we provide expert legal advice for people in de facto relationships, helping you understand your rights and navigate the process of separation. We can assist you with property settlements, spousal maintenance and child custody arrangements, ensuring that you are fully aware of your legal entitlements and responsibilities as a Central Coast family lawyer.
Property Settlements: Fair Division of Assets
One of the most contentious aspects of any family law case is property division. Whether it’s a family home, investments or business interests, it is essential to ensure that assets are divided fairly and equitably. At Linda Emery & Associates, our family lawyers can guide you through the property settlement process, ensuring that all assets and liabilities are disclosed and fairly divided.
We help our clients understand the factors the court will consider when determining a fair settlement, such as the financial and non-financial contributions made by each party, and any future needs that should be considered. Our goal is to help you reach a fair and reasonable settlement that protects your financial future with the assistance of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Spousal Maintenance Claims: Legal Advice for Financial Support
After a separation or divorce, you may be entitled to spousal maintenance if you are unable to financially support yourself. Spousal maintenance is designed to help a person maintain a reasonable standard of living following the end of a marriage or de facto relationship. It is important to understand the factors that the court considers when determining whether spousal maintenance should be awarded.
Our family lawyers can help you determine whether you are eligible for spousal maintenance, as well as assist you in negotiating a fair amount if you are being asked to provide support. We take into account factors such as your income, assets and financial needs when assessing your claim with the expertise of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Family Law Mediation: Resolving Disputes Without Court Involvement
Mediation is a popular and effective way to resolve family law disputes outside of the court system. It allows both parties to come together with a neutral mediator to discuss the issues at hand and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation can help save time, reduce costs and minimise the emotional toll that court proceedings can take.
At Linda Emery & Associates, we offer mediation services that help families resolve disputes without the need for lengthy litigation. We understand the importance of maintaining good relationships, particularly when children are involved, and our team will work with both parties to help them find common ground with the help of a Central Coast family lawyer.
Expert Legal Assistance at Every Stage of Your Family Law Journey
Whether you’re just starting the legal process or need ongoing legal representation, Linda Emery & Associates is here to provide expert legal advice at every stage of your separation, divorce or custody case. Our family lawyers offer personalised guidance to ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
Family Law Central Coast
Our team offers a range of family law services:
Are you experiencing the hardships involved in a relationship breakup? Do you need expert legal advice regarding parenting issues? Or how your property gets divided?
A marriage or relationship breakdown is considered to be one of the most stressful situations that you may encounter in your lifetime.
A family lawyer on the Central Coast can guide you through this difficult time through providing expert legal advice. Linda Emery & Associates is a family lawyer serving the Central Coast with over 30 years experience and can assist you during this challenging time in your life.
If you are applying for divorce, the court will need to know several factors surrounding your relationship.
At Linda Emery & Associates we can advise you on how to proceed, as well as provide further advice on the information you need to provide in court, including:
- Your length of the marriage. If you have been married for a length of time less than two years, special circumstances may be required for the divorce to proceed.
- Any arrangements involving children, if applicable. Linda Emery & Associates is an experienced family law business committed to achieving the best outcome for all families.
- The period of separation, including any brief times of reconnection. You must have been separated for at least 12 months before a divorce from the courts will be granted.
- If you are looking to remarry, it's important to note that you must have been formally divorced first.
A Binding Financial Agreement is one method to formalise a family law property settlement. This can be done whether it is the breakup of a marriage or defacto relationship.
To be enforceable this agreement must comply with precise rules and thus requires independent legal advice for both parties. At Linda Emery & Associates, we can provide you with legal advice with making binding financial agreements.
A Binding Financial Agreement, or BFA, is a document that sets out the arrangement for the division of assets in the event that a couple separates. It can be entered into before marriage, during a marriage or after a divorce, before a de facto relationship, during a de facto relationship or after the breakdown of a de facto relationship.
Requirements of a Binding Financial Agreement
In accordance with Australian Family Law, a BFA needs to meet the following conditions:
- Each party receives independent legal advice
- A certificate detailing advice given is signed by both advisors
- The agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties
- Both parties are contemplating marriage or de facto relationship or contemplating separation or divorce
- A statement is provided that confirms each party has received independent legal advice about the advantages and disadvantages
- A copy of the legal practitioner’s statement is given to the other party
- It must deal with property, financial resources and/or spousal maintenance.
- Once the Binding Financial Agreement is signed one party must receive the original and the other party a copy.
- The agreement has not been terminated by the courts
- The agreement includes a separation agreement unless it is issued after divorce
Termination of a Binding Financial Agreement
A BFA can be terminated under the following circumstances:
- The agreement is found to be fraudulent – for example, because of non-disclosure of an asset
- The agreement was not prepared in line with legislative requirements
- Circumstances have changed to such a degree that the BFA is not workable
- Material changes have occurred – e.g., changes to the care and welfare of a child from the relationship
- Unconscionable conduct
- If an unliftable payment flag exists on a superannuation interest
- Superannuation interest is unsplittable
The termination agreement must be entered into by all parties, and each party must have received independent legal advice.
The law will recognise your relationship if you and your partner – live together in a de facto relationship as partners on a domestic basis for a qualifying period or have a close personal relationship which is between two adult persons, whether or not related by family, where one or other provides domestic support and personal care, which must not be for fee or reward.
The Family Law Act now applies to de facto relationships as well as marriages. You are able to seek spousal maintenance if you cannot support yourself and if your partner is able to pay maintenance to you. We can provide you with advice on how to pursue such a claim.
When undergoing separation, care must be taken to ensure that as little impact is made on any children involved. Reaching an agreement with your ex-partner is often the simplest way to determine a parenting arrangement. If this isn’t possible, our team can guide you through the process of applying to the court for orders if an agreement cannot be reached.
A parenting plan is a written agreement that sets out parenting arrangements for children. It is not legally enforceable, as opposed to a parenting order, which is made by the Court. A parenting plan is worked out and agreed upon jointly and can avoid you and your former partner from going to court.
If you are unable to financially support yourself after a separation, you may be eligible for spousal maintenance. We can provide you with expert legal advice to ensure that you claim what you are entitled to.
Spousal maintenance is a weekly payment made to support the other spouse. It is made under recognition of the mutual responsibilities each member of a marriage or de facto relationship has to the other. Spousal maintenance applies throughout Australia. It takes into consideration any or all of the following factors:
- Care of children under 18 years of age
- Age and health of the parties
- Ability for employment
- Income, property and financial resources
- Commitments to each party has to themselves and others
- Opportunity for government support
- What could be considered a reasonable standard of living
- Impact on earning rights
- Rights of creditors
- Duration of marriage/de facto relationship
- Impact of marriage/de facto relationship on finances
- Any cohabitation with another party
- Any property settlement
- The amount of Child Support payable
- The terms of a Binding Financial Agreement
These factors are by no means exhaustive – the courts have a degree of discretion and flexibility.
Is Spousal Maintenance The Same As Child Support?
This is a common confusion. In fact, Spousal Maintenance is assessed separately from Child Maintenance or Child Support. It is purely built around support for one partner from another.
Arranging how property will be divided after a separation involves several key steps. Assets and contributions made by each party must be determined to ensure the property is settled fairly. In this situation, Linda Emery can help you to understand your rights and the most suitable option for your property settlement.
Parties to a case have a duty to make timely, full and frank disclosure of all information relevant to the issues in dispute. Parties should promptly exchange copies of documents in their possession or control relevant to an issue in the dispute before and during a case.
Mediation
Skilled family mediation seeks to help both parties reach an agreement outside of the courts. Mediation is done with the understanding that there may be anger and hurt on both sides, and that an agreement will be hard to reach.
Family mediation applies the rule and protection of the law in a sensitive and effective way. As experts in this field, we offer a sound and experienced route to settlement. This can help avoid excessive court costs and reduce the time it takes to reach an agreement – mediation can often last weeks rather than months.
Mediation is a way for both parties to move on with their lives, and a can be a way to reduce the trauma of separation.
About Our Family Lawyer, Linda Emery
When you’re navigating the many difficulties of a marriage or relationship breakdown, a family lawyer can help guide the process and offer expert advice going forward. Linda Emery is highly experienced in the field of family law, serving clients throughout Gosford and the Central Coast for over thirty years. She is committed to keeping up to date with changes in legislation and carries outstanding knowledge, care and empathy which truly sets her apart.
Throughout her years of experience, Linda has branched out to cover estate planning, business law and conveyancing, and is equipped with the expertise and professionalism needed to assist clients in navigating a range of legal issues. She strives to ensure every client is given the support they need to understand their circumstances and any potential legal proceedings. With her friendly, thorough and communicative approach, Linda strives to meet each of her clients where they are, consider their situation and needs, and ultimately help them achieve the best outcomes.
As you’re guided through the complexities of family law, you can expect the following:
- Legal and social changes following a separation, divorce or parenting matters
- Legal proceedings, including official documentation and court appearances
- Resources available to you, including those offered by your community, community agencies, family law courts and New South Wales’ state government
Whether you’re putting together a pre-marriage agreement or facing a divorce, contact Linda Emery, your family lawyer on the Central Coast. To learn more about your options and how our legal team can help, search the options shown below.
Contact The Leading Family Lawyers on the Central Coast
If you are separating from your partner, whether married or a defacto partner you may need advise on how to divide your property. It is important that you know of the time constraints and other relevant guidelines. For example, any court orders must be applied for within one year from the date of divorce finalisation or 2 years from the date of separation if a defacto relationship.
You may also be eligible to apply for spousal maintenance. At Linda Emery & Associates we are family lawyers on the Central Coast with over 35 years experience and we are here to help.
For legal advice surrounding filing for divorce or a property settlement, get in touch with the Linda Emery & Associates team today by phone on 02 4323 4766, by email or by using our contact form to get in touch with our legal team in Cenrtal Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our team is experienced in family law, estates, conveyancing as well as several other key areas. Most people will need to use a solicitor at some point in their lives, which is why at Linda Emery & Associates, we aim to make the process as stress-free as possible.
When should I contact a family lawyer for a family matter?
Family matters can happen at any point in life. It is important to seek help as soon as soon as possible. Whether you’re considering separating or are already separated, Linda Emery & Associates is here to help you.
Who pays the legal fees for family law court matters?
The general consensus is that each party covers the cost of their own legal fees incurred in family law court matters. Unlike other legal proceedings, these costs do not follow the event.
Is going to the courts always the best option?
While going to the courts is sometimes necessary to settle a dispute, it also requires time, money, and emotional strength. At Linda Emery, we can advise you on the best course of action for an amicable and beneficial outcome for all.
From what age can a child choose which parent to live with?
Linda Emery & Associates can help settle a parental arrangement dispute, taking into account the emotional and physical needs of your child or children.
How can I protect my children during a relationship breakdown?
If children are involved in a relationship breakdown, you can protect them by using self-control when speaking about the other party, avoiding name-calling and blame, striving to resolve conflicts positively and with compromise, avoiding making your children a go-between, and working on developing a parenting plan that suits all parties.
What does a family lawyer do?
A family lawyer handles legal matters concerning relationships, including marriage, de facto relationships, divorce, spousal maintenance, child support, parenting arrangements and property settlement. They can provide legal advice, guide you through the process and help file documents.
How does family law work in Australia?
In Australia, family law is primarily governed by the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth). It deals with family-related issues and the legal processes surrounding them. When a dispute arises, parties are required to try and resolve it through family dispute resolution services. If resolution cannot be achieved, the matter may proceed to court.
Why Choose Linda Emery & Associates?
At Linda Emery & Associates, we have 40 years of legal experience, and we offer a range of family law services, from divorce proceedings to the creation of Binding Financial Agreements and the facilitation of parenting agreements. We understand the intricacies of dealing with de facto relationships and can help with property settlements and spousal maintenance. We can also manage Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) for your protection. Contact us to learn more.
What Time Limits Apply in Family Law Matters?
In Australian family law, certain time limits apply. For divorce settlements, you have one year from the date of your divorce becoming final to file an application for property settlement or spousal maintenance. For de facto relationships, you have two years from the end of the relationship. However, there are exceptions where the court may grant leave to apply for more time.
What Are the Timeframes for Family Court Matters?
Timeframes for family court matters can vary based on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. An uncontested divorce typically takes about four months to become final after the application is filed. More complex matters, such as those involving property disputes, take longer. Contact our family lawyers for more information.
How does mediation work in family law cases?
Mediation is a process in which an impartial third party, known as a mediator, helps the disputing parties negotiate and reach an agreement. In family law, this process is used to resolve disputes over issues like property division and parenting arrangements. The mediator doesn’t make decisions but facilitates conversation and guides the parties towards a mutually beneficial resolution. In Australia, it’s typically required to attempt mediation before taking a matter to court.
What is the process for divorce?
A divorce can be granted if the marriage has broken down irretrievably, as proven by a separation of at least 12 months. Either spouse can file for divorce, or both can file jointly. If there are no children under 18 and the divorce is unopposed, the applicant may not have to attend court. If the court is satisfied that the marriage has ended and appropriate arrangements have been made for the children, the divorce will be granted.
What is involved in a parenting order?
A parenting order is a legally enforceable arrangement for children made by the court that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of each parent regarding the upbringing of their child or children. It provides a comprehensive structure for parenting arrangements and can encompass a wide range of elements. Primarily, parenting orders may stipulate with whom the child will live and who the child will spend time with. This can include specific days, times, holidays and special occasions.
Breaching a parenting order is a serious matter and can result in various penalties. If there are consistent issues with the enforcement of a parenting order, parties can seek further legal assistance or, in some circumstances, return to court. As every family’s situation is unique, it is advised to seek professional legal advice when dealing with parenting orders.
Linda Emery
Linda Emery has been a local Central Coast resident for 37 years owning and operating her own Law Firm on the Central Coast since 1990. Linda is committed to supporting local businesses & Central Coast residents. Linda is a member of the NSW Law Society, Central Coast Law Society, PEXA (the electronic conveyancing platform) and the Australian Institute of Conveyancers. Linda undertakes work in Family Law, Conveyancing, Estates, Criminal Law and Court Appearances. Linda welcomes all new clients.
For legal advice regarding any of the above information please contact our friendly and expert team at Linda Emery and Associates on 02 4323 4766 today!
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