At some point, you may be asked to provide certified copies of important documents. Whether it’s for legal, financial, or identification purposes, getting your documents certified is a common requirement. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get your documents certified, Coastal Lawyers style.
What Does “Certified Copy” Mean?
A certified copy is essentially a photocopy of an original document that has been verified by an authorised person, confirming that the copy is a true representation of the original. The certifier must physically see both the original document and the copy before certifying it.
How to Get Your Documents Certified
To ensure your documents are certified correctly, follow these steps:
Show the Original Document: The certifier must physically see both the original document and the copy.
The Certifier’s Statement: On each copy of your document, the certifier must write: “This is a true copy of the original as supplied to me.”
Signature: The certifier must sign and date each page of the document. If it’s a multi-page document, they should write or stamp on the first page: “I certify this and the following [number of pages] pages to be a true copy of the original as supplied to me,” and then initial the remaining pages.
Referee Information Required
On each certified copy, the certifier must also include their:
Occupation (from the list of acceptable referees)
Full name and address
Phone number
This ensures that the certification can be verified if needed.
Who Can Certify Documents?
Here’s a quick rundown of professionals who can certify your documents:
Accountant (Registered Tax Agent or member of a recognised professional accounting body)
Legal Practitioner (Barrister, Solicitor, or anyone listed on the roll of the Supreme Court or High Court)
Police Officer
Medical Practitioner
Justice of the Peace (JP with registration number)
School Principal
Postal Manager
Getting your documents certified is a simple but important process, and making sure it’s done correctly is key to avoiding any unnecessary delays or rejections. If you’re ever unsure about who can certify your documents or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to Coastal Lawyers. We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible for you.s.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
When separating from a partner, setting up a parenting arrangement is crucial to ensure a stable environment for your children. Family law in Australia offers several pathways for documenting these arrangements, each with different levels of formality and enforceability. Let’s explore the main options—informal arrangements, parenting plans, consent orders, and court orders—so you can determine which might be right for your family.
1. Informal Arrangements
What It Is Informal arrangements are verbal agreements or understandings between parents regarding their children’s care. These arrangements are based on mutual trust and do not involve written documentation or court intervention.
Why Choose It? An informal arrangement can work well if you and your co-parent have a strong, cooperative relationship and feel confident in making flexible arrangements as circumstances change. It’s also cost-effective and can easily adapt to the needs of both parents and children.
Important Note While informal arrangements allow for flexibility, they are not legally binding. This means that if a disagreement arises, neither parent has a legal document to fall back on. For those who need a more structured and enforceable option, a parenting plan or consent order might be a better choice.
2. Parenting Plans
What It Is A parenting plan is a written agreement that sets out the practical details of your parenting arrangement. It covers aspects such as living arrangements, visitation schedules, holidays, communication with the children, and major decision-making responsibilities.
Why Choose It? Parenting plans are a great option if you’re looking for a flexible yet documented arrangement. They are signed and dated by both parents, making them a recognized agreement under the Family Law Act, even though they are not legally enforceable. This approach encourages cooperation while allowing for adjustments over time.
Important Note While parenting plans are not legally enforceable, they can carry weight in court if a dispute arises later. Courts may consider the parenting plan as a reflection of the parents’ intentions and what was initially agreed upon, so it’s essential to approach this option thoughtfully.
3. Consent Orders
What It Is Consent orders are legally binding documents that outline parenting arrangements, submitted to and approved by the court without the need for a hearing. Both parents must agree to the terms and provide written consent.
Why Choose It? Consent orders are ideal if you want the flexibility of a mutual agreement with the enforceability of a court order. Once the court approves the consent orders, they become legally binding, meaning that both parents are obligated to comply. This can be especially useful if there is a risk that one party may not follow through with the agreement.
Important Note While consent orders are legally binding, they allow for some flexibility if both parents agree to modify the arrangement. However, it’s recommended to document any major changes and submit them to the court for approval.
4. Court Orders (Final Hearing)
What It Is If parents cannot agree on a suitable parenting arrangement, they may need to proceed to a court hearing, where a judge will determine the arrangement based on the best interests of the child. This is typically the last resort in family law disputes.
Why Choose It? Court orders provide a legally enforceable arrangement decided by a judge, which can be helpful if there are significant disputes, safety concerns, or communication breakdowns. These orders provide clear guidance and protect the child’s best interests when parents cannot find common ground.
Important Note Court orders can be inflexible and costly, and parents have less control over the final outcome since a judge makes the decisions. For this reason, it’s often best to try other options like a parenting plan or consent orders first.
Which Option is Best for You?
Deciding on the best way to document your parenting arrangement depends on your relationship with the other parent, the needs of your children, and the level of enforceability you’re looking for. Informal arrangements may work well for cooperative parents, while those needing legal security might prefer consent orders or court intervention.
Need Help Formalizing Your Parenting Arrangement?
At Coastal Lawyers, we can help you understand which option suits your family best and assist in drafting or submitting the necessary documents. Contact us today to take the next step in creating a stable, clear arrangement for your children’s future.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
At some point, you’ll likely need to have your documents certified. Whether it’s for legal, financial, or personal reasons, it’s important to know who can help you with this process. Here’s a quick guide on who can certify your documents, ensuring that they are accepted by the relevant authorities.
Who Can Certify Your Documents?
Accountant: Must be a member of a recognised professional accounting body or a Registered Tax Agent.
Legal Practitioner: Anyone listed on the roll of the Supreme Court of a State or Territory or the High Court of Australia as a legal practitioner.
Barrister, Solicitor, or Patent Attorney: These legal professionals are authorised to certify documents.
Police Officer: Any officer serving in the police force can help with document certification.
Postal Manager: A manager at any Australian Post office.
School Principal: Principals of Australian secondary colleges, high schools, or primary schools.
Medical Practitioner: Doctors who are registered in Australia can certify your documents.
Justice of the Peace (JP): A JP registered in their state (with a registration number) can certify documents.
Minister of Religion: Must be registered under Subdivision A of Division 1 of Part IV of the Marriage Act 1961.
How to Certify Documents Correctly
The certifier must follow these steps when certifying your documents:
Write the statement: “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document.”
Include their:
Full name
Signature
Date of certification
Registration number (if applicable)
Qualification or occupation that qualifies them to certify
This information must appear on each page of the photocopied identification documents.
Getting documents certified is a straightforward process, but it’s important to have them signed off by the right person to avoid any complications. If you’re unsure about who can certify your documents or need further guidance, feel free to contact Coastal Lawyers for assistance. We’re here to make the process as easy as possible for you.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please consult your legal representative or book a consultation with Coastal Lawyers.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
A new compliance measure has been introduced to help family law cases run more smoothly and ensure all parties meet their obligations. Known as the Defaulters’ List, this measure was announced under the Family Law Practice Direction by the Chief Justice and will be piloted in Sydney. The goal? To ensure that family law cases progress in a timely, efficient, and fair manner by holding parties accountable for court orders, rules, and case management directives.
What is the Defaulters’ List?
The Defaulters’ List is designed to manage cases where parties are not complying with court rules or directions, particularly those involving family law or child support matters. Think of it as a compliance checklist: cases that aren’t adhering to set timelines, orders, or requirements may be placed on this list as a way to address and rectify delays.
This measure supports the overarching purpose of family law practice: resolving disputes justly, with a focus on safety, child welfare, legal adherence, and efficiency. By keeping track of non-compliant cases, the Defaulters’ List aims to improve the pace and effectiveness of family law proceedings, reducing the strain on judicial resources and improving outcomes for families.
Why Introduce the Defaulters’ List?
The Defaulters’ List is part of a broader goal to streamline family law cases, focusing on several key objectives:
Just and Fair Resolutions: Ensuring that cases are decided based on merit and fairness.
Efficient Resource Use: Making the best use of the court’s time and resources to keep the family law system running smoothly.
Timely Case Disposal: Moving cases along promptly to avoid unnecessary delays that can prolong stress for families.
Cost-Effective Resolution: Keeping expenses in proportion to the importance and complexity of the case, so families aren’t burdened with excessive legal costs.
How Does the Defaulters’ List Work?
Any family law case, up until the Compliance and Readiness Hearing stage, can be referred to the Defaulters’ List if there’s a lack of compliance with court rules or directives. This means that at any stage of the case management process, if parties are not meeting their obligations, the court may add the case to the list to encourage corrective action.
The pilot program in Sydney will see the Defaulters’ List overseen by Judges of each Court, who will ensure that cases progress according to the court’s requirements and that any delays are managed appropriately.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re involved in a family law or child support case, compliance is essential to ensure the smooth progression of your matter. Non-compliance with court orders or procedures may lead to your case being placed on the Defaulters’ List, potentially adding time and complexity to the process. Staying on top of requirements, meeting deadlines, and adhering to case management orders are critical steps to avoid delays and keep the focus on a just and timely resolution.
Need Help with Family Law Compliance?
If you’re having trouble with enforcing orders or meeting family law compliance requirements, Coastal Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today to get the support you need to keep your case moving forward.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
At Coastal Lawyers, we know that parenting can be challenging, especially during times of transition or difficulty. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of essential parenting resources available on the Central Coast to help you navigate these challenges and find the support you need.
Uniting Care Brighter Futures offers early intervention and family support services to help families with children from birth to 9 years old. Their goal is to improve family resilience and ensure the well-being of children through tailored support.
Parenting Support: Tailored advice and coaching for parents.
Home Visits: In-home support from caseworkers to address specific family needs.
Long-Term Case Management: Ongoing assistance for up to 18 months.
Early Intervention Programs: Addressing behavioral and developmental concerns.
Referral Services: Access to additional services, including mental health and housing support.
For more information, visit their website or reach out directly:
Pacific Link Housing provides affordable and secure housing, along with additional programs aimed at improving tenants’ well-being and life skills. Their programs are designed to offer support beyond just housing, ensuring a better quality of life for families.
Education Support: Assistance with educational expenses.
Learner Driver Lessons: Free lessons for tenants learning to drive.
Health & Wellbeing Program: Financial support for health and fitness activities.
Tech Connect Loan Program: Subsidized loans for tech devices to support education and job opportunities.
For more details or to apply for their programs, visit the website or contact them:
Phone: (02) 4324-7617
Email: info@pacificlink.org.au
3. NSW Government Family & Community Services (FACS) Housing Services
Website: NSW Government Family & Community Services (FACS) Housing Services
FACS Housing Services provides housing assistance for those in need, including social housing, private rental help, and homelessness prevention. Their services are critical for families going through financial hardships or in need of secure housing.
Social Housing: Safe and affordable housing for low-income individuals.
Private Rental Assistance: Rentstart Bond Loans and other rental help options.
Domestic Violence Support: The Rent Choice Start Safely program supports domestic violence survivors.
Homelessness Services: Helping those at risk of homelessness or experiencing it.
For more information on how to apply or seek assistance:
Phone: 1800 422 322
Contact: Via online form.
At Coastal Lawyers, we understand that parenting can be especially tough during separation or family law matters. If you’re seeking legal advice or need guidance on family-related issues, contact us today to discuss how we can assist you.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
Going through a separation is challenging enough without the added stress of gathering important documents and taking care of essential tasks. At Coastal Lawyers, we’ve guided many clients through this process, so we know just how crucial it is to get organized and stay ahead of the game.
Here’s a handy checklist of documents you should collect and things you should be thinking about as you navigate your separation.
Documents You Should Collect
First things first—let’s talk paperwork. You’ll need to gather some key documents to ensure you’re prepared for what comes next.
Birth Certificate: Make sure you have a copy of your birth certificate handy.
Passport: If you have a passport, grab it. You’ll need it for identification and possible future travel.
Marriage Certificate: If you were married, this is an essential document to have on hand.
De Facto Registration: For those in a de facto relationship, collect any registration documents if applicable.
Medicare Card: Ensure you have your Medicare card or a copy of it.
Date of Separation
One of the first things to do is to record the date of separation. Did you tell someone about the separation on that day? If so, that person may be able to provide a statement in the future if there’s ever a dispute over the date. This date can be critical for legal and financial reasons.
Financial Documents
Next up, make sure you have copies of all your financial documents. These will be essential in understanding your current financial position and planning for the future.
Banks:
General account statements
Credit card and store card statements
Afterpay or other buy-now-pay-later accounts
Loan statements, including home loans and overdrafts
Insurance:
Health, home and contents, car, income protection, life, and pet insurance policies
Note whose names are on the policies and how much the repayments are.
Tax:
Notices of Assessment
Tax File Number
Know your taxable income and, if possible, your partner’s taxable income.
Vehicle Documents
If you own vehicles, you’ll need to gather some key details:
Registration: Whose name is the car registered under?
Finance: Is there any finance on the car? Whose name is the loan in? What’s the repayment schedule?
Loan Details: When will the loan be paid off, and how much are the repayments?
Utilities and Subscriptions
Utilities and subscriptions can often be overlooked, but they’re important to manage during a separation.
Utilities:
Electricity, gas, water, phone, internet, and Pay TV (Foxtel, Netflix, Stan, etc.)
Know whose names the accounts are in, the repayment amounts, and if any can be canceled because they’re in your name but you’re no longer using them.
Also, consider canceling any third-party accesses.
Superannuation and Investments
Superannuation is another critical area to address.
Superannuation:
Gather information about your super balance and, if possible, your partner’s.
Check who your nominated beneficiary is—if it’s your partner, consider if you want to change it.
Investment Statements:
If you have shares, managed funds, or receive share dividends, make sure you have up-to-date statements.
Business and Trust Documents
If you or your partner own a business, gather relevant documents:
Businesses:
Know the financial position of the business, how it’s set up (sole trader or company), and how long it’s been operating.
Collect profit and loss statements, depreciation schedules, and business activity statements.
Trusts:
Identify any trusts and who the beneficiaries are.
Government Benefits
If you receive any government benefits, make sure you have the necessary documentation.
Government Benefits:
Centrelink
Child support
Childcare rebate
Loyalty Cards
Don’t forget about loyalty cards—these can sometimes be a point of contention.
Loyalty Cards:
Gather details on Flybuys, store cards, and other rewards programs.
Family File
Create a document that lists key details, including:
Your Information: Name, DOB
Your Ex-Partner’s Information: DOB, address, employer details, etc.
Children’s Information: Names, DOBs, and other relevant details
Update and Change
Now comes the part where you need to secure your privacy and start making some changes:
Passwords: Change passwords for your email, social media accounts, and internet banking.
Address: Update your address on personal accounts. Consider obtaining a mailbox or redirecting mail to a new address.
Banking: Start your own bank account if you don’t already have one. Consider closing joint accounts, credit cards, and redraw facilities.
Insurance and Leases: Update insurance policies and lease details if one party has moved out.
Superannuation and Legal Documents: Update the beneficiary on your super, as well as your will and power of attorney.
Mortgage Payments: If you’re worried about making payments, contact your bank. You may be able to suspend payments.
Location Sharing: Turn off any location sharing services like “Find My Friends.”
Final Thoughts
Separation is never easy, but getting organized can make the process smoother and less stressful. By gathering these documents and making the necessary changes, you’re taking important steps towards securing your future.
Need Help?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about where to start, contact Coastal Lawyers today to book a strategy session. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of your separation and provide the support you need to move forward with confidence.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, book an obligation-free appointment with Coastal Lawyers online..
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Family Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are family lawyers based in Erina, on the Central Coast.
Coastal Lawyers assist family law clients in parenting, property, mediation, dispute resolution, and litigation. We offer the legal advice you expect from a lawyer, along with the emotional support you might not expect.
We are passionate about assisting our clients achieve amicable separations without the need for court intervention through the process of legally assisted mediation.
Our team also frequently appears at the Newcastle Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Newcastle FCFCOA), the Parramatta Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Parramatta FCFCOA), and the Sydney Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Sydney FCFCOA) to represent our clients in more intricate family law matters. This encompasses issues related to family violence, unacceptable risk of harm to children, relocation applications, recovery orders and complex property settlements.
Coastal Lawyers offer a 1 hour Strategy Session for all new family law enquiries at a reduced hourly rate.
