Top Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Melbourne
Contact our top divorce lawyers in Melbourne for a free consultation today.
Understanding Divorce & Separation
Definitions:
- Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage. In Australia, you can apply for a divorce after 12 months of separation from your spouse.
It’s important to note that there is “no fault” divorce in Australia, meaning you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. - Separation means living separately and apart, even if you are still living under the same roof.
If you’re considering divorce or separation, it’s crucial to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options.
Matthies Lawyers can provide expert guidance on divorce law, separation agreements, and the entire divorce process in Melbourne.
The Divorce Process:
While divorce can be emotionally challenging, understanding the legal process can help alleviate some of the stress. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:
- Initial Consultation: Meet with our divorce and separation lawyers in Melbourne to discuss your situation and explore your options.
- Filing for Divorce: We assist you in preparing and submitting all necessary documents to initiate the divorce process.
- Mediation and Negotiation: Our team helps you negotiate fair agreements on property and parenting matters without litigation where possible.
- Court Proceedings (if necessary): If mediation fails, our lawyers will represent you in court to protect your interests.
Family & Divorce Law
Wills & Estates
Property Conveyancing
Will Disputes
Animal Law
Probate
Why Choose Matthies Lawyers?
- Our experienced team of divorce and separation lawyers has successfully guided numerous clients through family law resolutions.
- We prioritise your well-being, understanding the emotional toll of divorce.
- We create tailored legal strategies to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
- Our dedication is reflected in our track record of securing favourable outcomes for our clients.
A Comprehensive Range of Family Law Services
At Matthies Lawyers, we provide expert legal services in all areas of family law, including:
Property
Handling complex asset divisions.
Parenting Arrangements and Child Support
Ensuring the best interests of your children.
Spousal Maintenance
Securing fair financial support.
Same-Sex Relationships
Expertise in legal matters for same-sex couples.
Binding Financial Agreements
Pre- and post-nuptial agreements.
De Facto Relationships
Legal guidance for de facto partners.
Family Violence
Support and legal action for victims of family violence.
Contact our top divorce lawyers in Melbourne today to start your journey towards a better future.
Case Studies
Successful Mediation for Property Settlement
Our team successfully mediated a complex property settlement case, helping the client achieve a fair outcome without going to court.
Resolving Child Custody Disputes
Our team recently assisted a client in a highly contentious child custody case.
Through our expertise in mediation and negotiation, we successfully facilitated an agreement that prioritised the best interests of the children while ensuring both parents maintained significant roles in their lives.
This approach helped avoid the emotional strain and financial burden of a prolonged court battle.
Securing Spousal Maintenance
We represented a client seeking spousal maintenance after a long-term marriage ended.
Our experienced lawyers provided strong advocacy and detailed financial analysis, resulting in a court order that granted our client fair and adequate spousal support.
This outcome ensured our client’s financial stability during the transition period and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a divorce cost?
The cost of a divorce can vary significantly depending on the complexity of your case and whether it can be resolved amicably through negotiation or mediation or if it proceeds to court.
We offer transparent fee structures and will provide you with a clear estimate of costs upfront.
We also offer flexible funding options through Plenti and Just Fund.
Do I need a lawyer to get a divorce?
While it’s not mandatory to have a lawyer for a divorce, having experienced legal representation is highly recommended.
Divorce law can be complex, and a lawyer can ensure your rights are protected, guide you through the process, and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
What if my spouse and I can't agree on anything?
While we strive for amicable resolutions, we understand that disagreements can arise. If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation, we will guide you through the court process and advocate for your interests in front of a judge.
Can I get a divorce if I'm still living with my spouse?
Yes, you can still apply for a divorce even if you’re living under the same roof as your spouse. This is known as “separation under one roof.” However, you will need to demonstrate to the court that you and your spouse are living separate lives despite sharing a residence.
Get Help with Your Family Law Matter Today
Speak with our experienced divorce and separation lawyers in Melbourne to discuss your case.
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