Navigating the family court system can be overwhelming, and on top of everything else, there’s the matter of paying hearing fees. If you’re unsure how to go about it, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Receiving Your Statement of Fees
Once you receive your statement of fees, it will include a Payment Identification Number (PID). This PID is your key to making the payment quickly and efficiently.
Step 2: Making the Payment
The easiest way to pay your fees is through the Family Law Fees eServices portal. Here’s what you need to do:
Enter your PID number as listed on your statement of fees.
Follow the prompts to complete your payment.
It’s as simple as that.
Step 3: Payment Options in Registries
If you prefer to make your payment in person, you can do so at the court registries. Payment methods accepted include:
Eftpos
Debit Card
Credit Card
Alternatively, if you’re sending your payment by mail, you can use a Visa or Mastercard (credit or debit).
Using the Credit Card Payment Form
When paying by credit card, especially if you’re mailing your application or request, don’t forget to include the Credit Card Payment Form. This form is available on the Forms page of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) website.
A quick tip—do not fax the form unless the Court has specifically requested you to do so. It’s crucial to follow this to ensure your payment is processed correctly and without delays.
Final Thoughts
Paying hearing fees may seem like just another item on a long list of to-dos, but it’s an important step in moving your case forward. By following these simple steps, you can handle this process smoothly and get back to focusing on what matters most—your case.
Need Help?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the legal process, contact Coastal Lawyers today to book a consultation. We’re here to guide you through every step and provide the support you need during this challenging time.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for 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.
When navigating family separation, ensuring the safety and well-being of children is paramount. Supervised contact centres provide a safe, neutral environment for children to maintain a relationship with a non-custodial parent while addressing concerns like family conflict or court orders. Whether you’re dealing with a high-conflict situation or simply need a structured environment for contact, here’s a list of six key supervised contact centres on the Central Coast.
Overview: Holding Hands Family Services focuses on child-centered, community-based supervised visits in familiar locations across the Central Coast. Their goal is to reduce conflict during family separations while providing detailed visit reports and a supportive intake process.
Special Services: Detailed visit reports; child-centered focus.
Overview: Established in 2015, Children in Focus provides professional, community-based supervision for families in high-conflict situations, including domestic violence or court-ordered visits. They offer supervised visits in natural environments like parks or zoos and aim to assign the same supervisor for every visit to ensure consistency.
Locations: Parks, homes, zoos—natural settings for a child-friendly experience.
Overview: Hope Cottage, located in Wyong, offers professional, safe child contact services in a private, home-like environment. They support families through separation with a child-focused approach and also provide family mediation services.
Additional Services: Family mediation and support.
Overview: Interrelate offers flexible supervised visits and changeovers, tailored to meet the needs of the child. Their services are designed for families dealing with separation, conflict, and safety concerns, with the ability to provide court-related services such as subpoenas and reports.
Overview: Rekonnect provides supervised child contact and changeover services across Newcastle, Maitland, and the Central Coast. With no waiting lists, Rekonnect offers flexible arrangements to suit court orders and family needs, ensuring a child-friendly, professional service.
Unique Feature: No waiting lists and flexible arrangements.
Overview: Family Ties operates across Sydney, Newcastle, and the Central Coast, providing supervised contact managed by qualified social workers. Their services are particularly focused on high-conflict or court-ordered situations, prioritizing safety and professionalism.
Phone: (02) 9817 0500
Why Supervised Contact Centres Matter
Supervised contact centres play a crucial role in helping children maintain relationships with their parents during challenging times, while ensuring that interactions are safe and positive. Whether you’re facing a high-conflict situation, dealing with court orders, or just looking for a structured setting for contact, these services provide invaluable support.
If you’re navigating family separation and need advice on finding the right contact centre for your situation, Coastal Lawyers is here to help. We understand the complexities of these situations and can guide you through the process with expert legal support.
Contact us today to discuss your options and how we can assist you in ensuring the best outcomes for you and your family.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice, you can 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.
Parental alienation is a term used to describe a situation where one parent, through their actions, damages the relationship between their children and the other parent. This can lead to lasting emotional effects on everyone involved, particularly the children. Here’s what you need to know about parental alienation, how it’s addressed in family law, and what the courts can do in these situations.
What is Parental Alienation Syndrome?
Parental alienation syndrome involves a pattern of behaviors where one parent actively undermines the child’s relationship with the other parent. This can have severe psychological effects on the child, leading to confusion, loyalty conflicts, and in some cases, lasting mental health challenges. Though the focus is often on the parents, grandparents and other family members can sometimes contribute to the alienation as well, adding complexity to the situation.
Common Alienating Behaviors
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to alienating behaviors, but there are common patterns. These include:
Limiting the child’s time with the other parent.
Interfering with communication or plans for visits.
Portraying the other parent negatively or encouraging the child to keep secrets from them.
Alienating behaviors often become more pronounced when one parent moves on to a new relationship, but they can occur even when parents are still together.
Who Are the Players in Parental Alienation?
The Alienating Parent: Often, the alienating parent may display narcissistic tendencies and unresolved anger towards their ex-partner. They might not fully grasp the impact of their behavior on the child and instead use the child as a means to exert control or exact revenge.
The Targeted Parent: This parent can suffer deeply, experiencing frustration, helplessness, and emotional exhaustion. Alienation can be financially draining as well, especially when it leads to legal battles over parenting arrangements.
The Alienated Child: Children caught in the middle may resist the alienating behaviors initially, but they are often dependent on the alienating parent, which can make it hard for them to maintain that resistance. Over time, the effects of alienation can manifest as anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and difficulty forming future relationships.
How Does the Court Handle Parental Alienation?
In the Federal Circuit and Family Court, determining parental alienation can be challenging. Courts rely heavily on evidence and may request independent expert assessments to determine if alienation is taking place. Under Section 60CC(2) of the Family Law Act 1975, the court prioritizes the best interests of the child, specifically considering the importance of a meaningful relationship with both parents and protecting the child from harm.
If the court finds that one parent’s behavior presents an unacceptable risk to the child, they may take serious action, which can include changing the child’s residence. In some cases, courts have suspended contact between children and the alienating parent temporarily, as seen in notable cases like Ward & Ward, Lankester v Cribb, and Goldman v Goldman.
Case Studies in Parental Alienation
Ward & Ward (2016): The court allowed each child to live with the parent they were closest to but ensured they could still spend time together as siblings.
Lankester v Cribb (2018): Following unfounded allegations of abuse, the court transferred residence to the father and limited the mother’s contact to supervised visits.
Goldman v Goldman (2018): When the mother was found to be influencing the children against the father, the court suspended her contact with the children temporarily, ordering supervised visits for a period of time.
Final Thoughts
Parental alienation is complex and deeply impactful, but the courts are equipped to address it with the best interests of the child in mind. If you’re dealing with parental alienation or suspect it’s affecting your family, Coastal Lawyers can provide guidance and support tailored to your situation.
Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step towards protecting your family’s well-being.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need specific legal guidance, book an obligation-free appointment with Coastal Lawyers online.
Coastal Lawyers is here to help you navigate the legal complexities of parental alienation, ensuring that the best interests of your children are always the priority.
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.
Navigating separation is tough, especially when children are involved. Thankfully, there are several online courses designed to support parents as they work through these challenges. Here’s a look at some of the most effective courses available to help parents develop better co-parenting skills, manage conflicts, and prioritise the well-being of their children.
1. New Ways for Families
The New Ways for Families program focuses on reducing conflict and improving communication between separated parents. This course provides valuable tools for effective co-parenting and conflict management. With its flexible, online format, you can complete the course at your own pace.
Cost: Approximately $95
Format: Online, self-paced with interactive sessions
Certification: Certificate issued upon passing the final exam, useful for court requirements
Support: Some providers offer financial assistance or discounted programs for low-income families
The Better Relationships program is tailored to strengthen family dynamics and enhance emotional resilience. The course is structured with interactive modules that help parents improve their communication skills and build a healthy co-parenting environment.
Cost: Ranges from $95 to $195, based on course length and depth
Features: Includes a toolkit of practical exercises and downloadable resources, with guidance from professionals through live discussions and forums
Certification: Certificate of completion, useful for family court proceedings
Visit the Better Relationships website for more details on specific programs and payment options, especially if you’re looking for family law-related support.
3. Parenting After Separation (PAS)
The Parenting After Separation (PAS) course is designed for parents adjusting to separation or divorce, with a strong focus on the children’s well-being. This free course covers everything from understanding children’s emotional responses to separation to creating effective parenting plans.
Cost: Free
Duration: 3 to 4 hours, divided into four sections
High-Conflict Option: An additional course, PAS for Families in High Conflict (PASHC), focuses on managing emotions, setting boundaries, and protecting children from conflict.
Certificates are available for both courses, which can be important for family law requirements. For more information, visit government or family support service websites offering PAS programs.
4. Up to Parents
The Up to Parents program is a free, online course that emphasizes a child-centered approach to co-parenting. It’s ideal for parents seeking to prioritize their children’s needs and minimize conflict during separation.
Cost: Free
Features: Includes interactive worksheets and tools for communication, co-parenting strategies, and resources on legal rights and responsibilities
Topics: Covers children’s emotional responses to divorce, conflict management, and consistent parenting approaches
Flexibility: Self-paced, making it accessible for busy parents with no time restrictions
For more information and to get started, visit the Up to Parents website.
5. Parents Not Partners
The Parents Not Partners program, offered by Interrelate, is a six-week course specifically designed to help separated parents establish healthy co-parenting relationships. It focuses on building communication skills, managing emotions, and setting clear boundaries, all with the child’s well-being as the top priority.
Key Aspects:
Course Structure: The program consists of weekly group sessions led by an experienced counsellor, with a strong emphasis on separating personal conflicts from parenting duties.
Target Audience: This course is ideal for separated parents who are navigating co-parenting challenges, particularly those in family law or mediation processes.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will learn how to handle disagreements, communicate effectively, and maintain a safe space for their children, ensuring their needs are prioritized throughout the separation.
Additional Details:
Cost: The course fee is $150, with concession options available.
Format: It is offered both in-person and online, depending on the participant’s preference.
Benefits: By the end of the program, parents gain skills to reduce family stress, improve co-parenting dynamics, and foster a stable environment for their children.
Each of these programs offers valuable insights and tools to help parents navigate the complexities of co-parenting after separation. If you’re facing this challenging time, exploring these courses can be an important step toward building a supportive environment for your children.
Need Additional Support?
Coastal Lawyers can provide you with further resources and legal guidance tailored to your family’s unique situation. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you through separation and beyond.
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.
Navigating family law can be daunting, but recent reforms to the court system are designed to make the process more efficient and accessible. The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA), established under the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Act 2021, merges the Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia to streamline family law processes.
Key Changes and Benefits
Simplified Processes: The new court focuses on innovation and efficiency, aiming to resolve disputes faster through simplified procedures. This reform, which took effect on 1 September 2021, marks a significant shift in how family law cases are managed.
Safety and Resolution: A priority of the FCFCOA is minimizing risk and harm to children and vulnerable parties. The court offers ongoing opportunities for dispute resolution, provided it is safe. For cases that proceed to litigation, the system is designed to be modern, transparent, and efficient, ensuring quick and fair outcomes.
Technological Advancements: In addition to family law, the court handles general federal law and migration matters. Enhanced use of technology and centralized case management processes ensure that justice is delivered effectively and efficiently.
New Court Structure
The FCFCOA introduces several benefits, including:
Single Entry Point: All family law matters now have a single point of entry.
Case Management Pathway: A new pathway improves early risk identification and safety for children and vulnerable parties.
Dispute Resolution Focus: Increased use of dispute resolution to reduce costs and emotional stress.
Compliance and Specialisation: Emphasis on compliance with court orders and specialized court lists.
Appellate Jurisdiction: Appeals from Division 1 are heard by a Full Court, while appeals from Division 2 are heard by a single judge or a Full Court as deemed appropriate.
Structure and Leadership
The court comprises two divisions:
Division 1: Continues as the Family Court of Australia, focusing on family law matters with 35 specialist judges.
Division 2: Continues as the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, dealing with family law, migration, and general federal law matters with 76 judges, including 55 family law specialists.
Leadership includes a Chief Justice and Deputy Chief Justice, both holding dual commissions to both divisions. A second Deputy Chief Judge manages general federal law and Fair Work jurisdictions in Division 2.
Case Management Pathway
The goal is to resolve 90% of cases within 12 months of filing. The first court event occurs within six to eight weeks of filing. Where safe, parties must undertake mediation or other dispute resolution within six months. If unresolved, they proceed to trial within 12 months.
Guiding Principles
The court operates under five guiding principles:
Innovation: Leading change with a focus on safe, efficient justice delivery.
Dispute Resolution: Encouraging resolution outside of court to reduce costs and stress.
Smarter Separation: Providing resources to help parties separate more effectively.
Safety Focus: Prioritizing the safety of children and vulnerable parties.
Expertise and Resources: Leveraging the expertise of judges and court staff to deliver world-class legal services.
Moving Forward
The reforms to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia aim to make family law more accessible, efficient, and fair. Whether dealing with family law, general federal law, or migration matters, these changes are designed to improve outcomes for all involved.
Need Legal Assistance?
At Coastal Lawyers, we’re here to guide you through the new court system. If you need expert legal advice or representation, contact us today to book a consultation and let us help you navigate your legal journey with confidence.
DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):
The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for your own research and/or legal advice. If you need legal advice, you can book an obligation-free appointment with Coastal Lawyers online.
With the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, navigating family law has never been more streamlined. Trust Coastal Lawyers to provide the support and expertise you need during this transition.
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.
Separation is undeniably tough, but taking the right steps afterward can pave the way for a fresh start. At Coastal Lawyers, we’re here to help you through this transition with practical advice and support. Here’s what you need to do post-separation to ensure a smooth journey ahead.
1. Formalise Your Agreement
If you and your ex-partner have reached an agreement, the next crucial step is to formalise it legally. This typically involves drafting a Binding Financial Agreement or obtaining Consent Orders through the Family Court. A family lawyer can help ensure your agreement is legally binding and protects your interests.
2. Seek Legal Advice
Consulting with a family lawyer is essential to understand your rights and obligations fully. Legal advice will ensure your agreement is fair and stands up in court. At Coastal Lawyers, we offer comprehensive legal guidance tailored to your unique situation, ensuring you’re well-informed and protected.
3. Implement the Agreement
Once your agreement is formalised, it’s time to put it into action:
Transfer Property Titles: Make sure all property transfers are correctly documented and registered.
Update Beneficiaries: Change the beneficiaries on your will, life insurance policies, and superannuation.
Adjust Financial Accounts: Ensure that joint accounts are closed or converted to individual accounts, and debts are divided as agreed.
4. Update Legal Documents
Review and update all legal documents that previously named your ex-partner. This includes your will, power of attorney, and any other important documents. Ensuring these reflect your current wishes is crucial to avoid future legal complications.
5. Make Financial Adjustments
Post-separation, it’s important to adjust your financial arrangements:
Close Joint Accounts: Close or separate joint bank accounts to ensure financial independence.
Divide Assets: Follow through on the division of assets as outlined in your agreement.
Manage Debts: Ensure each party assumes responsibility for their agreed-upon debts, avoiding future financial disputes.
6. Notify Relevant Authorities
Inform relevant authorities, banks, creditors, and institutions about your change in relationship status. This includes updating your details with government agencies and ensuring all records reflect your new circumstances.
7. Consider Tax Implications
Understand the tax implications of your property settlement. Consulting a tax professional can help you navigate potential capital gains or losses and ensure compliance with tax regulations. This step is essential to avoid unexpected tax liabilities.
8. Seek Emotional Support
Separation is not just a legal and financial challenge but an emotional one as well. Seek support from friends, family, or a professional counselor to help you cope with the emotional upheaval. Self-care is vital during this period.
9. Plan for Your Financial Future
Take control of your financial future by setting new goals and creating a plan to achieve them. Consider budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning. A financial advisor can offer valuable insights and help you build a secure financial future.
Moving Forward
Every separation is unique, and it’s important to address the specific needs of your situation. Taking the right steps and seeking professional advice can make the transition smoother and more manageable. Coastal Lawyers is here to support you through every step of your journey.
Need Assistance?
If you’re navigating a separation and need expert legal advice, Coastal Lawyers is here to help. We offer comprehensive services in all areas of family law, including divorce, separation, parenting arrangements, property settlements, and maintenance.
Taking these steps can help you navigate post-separation life with clarity and confidence. Remember, Coastal Lawyers is here to provide the support and guidance you need to move forward.
Contact us today to book your consultation and start your new chapter with confidence.
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.
