On 30 May 2018, the Australian Government’s Attorney-General Department announced changes to the existing family law system in Australia. On 1 January 2019, the Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia will be amalgamated, (subject to the passage of legislation) and a new court will be established, [...]
Did you know that in NSW a person's will is automatically revoked upon their marriage (unless there is an express provision in their will made in contemplation of marriage)? A timely article by John Collett and Caitlin Fitzsimmons on the SMH website takes you through what same sex couples need to [...]
Any regular reader of this blog will have observed repeated concerns regarding the state of funding of the Family Courts. A further cost cutting exercise has now been implemented. Notwithstanding the fact that parties are generally required to pay a filing fee with their Divorce Application, a Divorce Order will not [...]
An important review is about to start to determine whether New South Wales needs special legislation relating to the accessing and transference of what have become known as “digital assets”. Have you thought how your loved one or executor could access important digital accounts or platforms including bank accounts, PayPal accounts, [...]
Chances are when you think of a family law dispute you probably think all parties are stuck in the court system for years, and spend thousands of dollars. Whilst this is true for some, there are ways to settle out of court, saving you both money and time. The best way [...]
There is a common misconception amongst many separated parents that once a child turns eighteen years of age, there is no possibility of receiving further financial support from the other parent. In most circumstances, parental liability with respect to financial contributions made towards the maintenance of a child lasts until the [...]
Congratulations to our principal Michael Tiyce who has again been recognised by Doyles Guide. “The 2018 listing of leading New South Wales Parenting & Children’s Matters Lawyers details individuals who have been specifically highlighted for their expertise, abilities and experience in complex parenting/child custody issues and disputes. These rankings also include [...]
Following separation, the way parties share their income changes. It is not uncommon for one party to be earning considerably more than the other, especially when one of the parties has ceased working to care for children. Spousal maintenance can be sought urgently and on an interim ongoing basis. […]
On 7 December 2017, an applause erupted in the House of Representatives, signalling that Australia has finally caught up to the world in marriage equality. This is no doubt a fantastic result, and something long overdue. Whilst records of marriages are set to spike in the wake of the bill passing, [...]
After many twists and turns, same sex marriage is legal in Australia at last, and many couples are excitedly planning their nuptials as a result. But what many don’t realise is that family law has its own twists and turns for same sex couples – for many involving such things as [...]