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.
As adults, we’ve become accustomed to the often distressing and upsetting nature of the news. However, for children, the constant barrage of negative stories can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. I remember watching the news as a child and becoming very upset, fearing that something bad would happen to my family. It’s easy to forget how much these stories can impact young minds.
Why the News Can Be Distressing for Children
Children have vivid imaginations and often struggle to differentiate between the likelihood of events they see on the news and their own reality. Seeing stories of natural disasters, violence, or tragic accidents can make them worry that these events could happen to them or their loved ones. Unlike adults, who have the experience to contextualize and rationalize these events, children may take these stories to heart, leading to unnecessary fear and anxiety.
How to Help Your Child Navigate the News
Limit Exposure:
Monitor and limit your child’s exposure to distressing news stories. Consider watching the news together and turning it off if the content becomes too intense.
Discuss What They See:
Open a dialogue about the news. Ask them how they feel about what they’ve seen and provide reassurance. Explain the context and the rarity of such events.
Focus on the Positive:
Highlight positive news stories and discuss the good things happening in the world. This can help balance their perspective and reduce anxiety.
Reassure Them:
Let your child know that they are safe. Reassure them about the safety measures in place to protect them and their loved ones.
Use Resources:
There are fantastic resources available to help children process their feelings about the news. One such resource is the “Something Bad Happened” project by the Iris Foundation. This resource provides tools to help children navigate and understand upsetting news stories.
A Wonderful Free Resource for Children
Helping children cope with distressing news is crucial for their emotional well-being. Here are some free resources and strategies to support them:
Resources for Children
Twinkl:
KS1 Upsetting News Activity: Guides children through thinking about how to cope after seeing, hearing, or reading distressing news stories.
KS2 Coping with Upsetting Stories in the News Activity: Helps children understand that feeling upset is normal and encourages them to seek support.
Child Mind Institute:
Provides guidance on how to talk to children about frightening news, including modeling calmness, validating their feelings, and being reassuring. It emphasizes the importance of honest communication and being available to answer questions.
Children’s Hospital Colorado:
Offers tips for talking to kids about news events, tailored by age group. It advises parents to be open to children’s fears, limit news exposure, and maintain a sense of normalcy to help children feel safe.
UNICEF:
Provides tips on how parents can support their children following distressing events. It highlights the importance of reassurance, engaging in honest conversations, maintaining routines, and limiting media exposure.
Iris Foundation:
Offers an incredibly helpful and free resource for children to help them cope with distressing news. The “Something Bad Happened” project includes a free PDF worksheet that parents can go through with their children. This worksheet is designed to help children process and discuss their feelings about upsetting events they see or hear about in the news. Check Iris Foundation for more info.
Tips for Parents
Model Calmness:
Children often take emotional cues from adults. Stay calm and use simple, honest language to explain events.
Validate Feelings:
Encourage children to express their feelings and validate their emotions. Let them know it’s normal to feel upset or scared.
Limit Media Exposure:
Protect children from excessive news coverage. Monitor their media consumption and provide context to what they see.
Maintain Routine:
Keep daily routines consistent to provide a sense of normalcy and security.
Be Available:
Spend time with your children and let them know they can talk to you anytime about their feelings or concerns.
Create Positive Distractions:
Engage in activities that children enjoy to shift their focus from distressing news.
Final Thoughts
As parents, it’s important to be mindful of how the news can affect our children. By limiting exposure, discussing their feelings, focusing on positive stories, and using helpful resources, we can support our children in navigating a world that sometimes feels scary and unpredictable.
Remember, it’s okay to turn off the news and focus on what brings joy and reassurance to your family. Your child’s mental and emotional well-being is paramount.
Need More Help?
If you need more support or have concerns about your child’s reaction to the news, consider reaching out to a child psychologist or counselor. They can provide professional advice tailored to your child’s specific needs.
Coastal Lawyers: Here to Support Your Family
At Coastal Lawyers, we understand that parenting can be challenging, especially when navigating difficult topics like this. If you have any legal concerns or need advice, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards peace of mind.
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 professional advice. If you need legal advice, 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.
Navigating the stormy seas of domestic or family violence is incredibly challenging, but the right tools can offer a lifeline. Enter the Arc App—a valuable tool designed to support individuals experiencing abuse by helping them document and track abusive behaviours. Here’s a detailed overview of its features and functionalities, brought to you by Coastal Lawyers.
Key Features of the Arc App
Recording Experiences:
The Arc App allows users to record incidents of abuse by uploading photos, videos, audio files, and diary entries. This comprehensive documentation helps create a detailed record of what happened, when it occurred, and how it made the user feel. It’s like having a personal journal, but with added layers of security and organisation.
Identifying Patterns:
Abuse isn’t always a one-off event; it often follows a pattern. The Arc App helps users identify these patterns over time. By compiling entries, the app builds a bigger picture of the user’s experiences, which is crucial for understanding the extent and nature of the abuse. This feature can be a game-changer in recognising recurring behaviours that might otherwise be dismissed or overlooked.
Telling Your Story:
Sharing your experiences of abuse can be daunting, but the Arc App simplifies this process. It allows users to share their documented experiences with friends, family, support services, or legal professionals. This can provide key information to police or in court, potentially reducing the need to repeatedly recount traumatic events. It’s like having a supportive friend who helps you tell your story accurately and efficiently.
Secure Data Storage:
Your safety and privacy are paramount. Information entered into the Arc App is securely encrypted and stored off-device in the cloud. This ensures that your data is safe and can be retrieved even if the app is deleted from your phone. The app is designed to be discreetly deleted and reinstalled without losing any information, offering peace of mind in precarious situations.
Ease of Use and Accessibility:
The Arc App is free to download on both iOS and Android devices. It’s specifically designed to be user-friendly and accessible, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. So, whether you’re a tech guru or a novice, the Arc App is there to help.
Additional Information
Developer: The Arc App was developed by the Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria (DVRCV), now known as Safe and Equal, to support victim-survivors in documenting their experiences and accessing support.
Privacy and Security: While the app is highly secure, some users have requested further enhancements for confidentiality, such as removing identifying labels from the app to prevent perpetrators from recognising it. Your feedback is always valued and helps make the app even better. Only you can assess whether it is suited to your situation and meets your safety needs.
How to Get the App
Ready to take control? You can download the Arc App from the App Storefor iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. For those without a smartphone, the app can also be accessed via a web account. For more information, visit the official Arc App website.
If you have any more questions or need further assistance with the app, feel free to reach out! Coastal Lawyers is here to support you through every step of your journey.
DO YOU NEED HELP?
At Coastal Lawyers, we offer compassionate and comprehensive legal support for those facing domestic and family violence. Whether you need help with documenting your experiences or require legal advice, our team is here to assist you. Coastal Lawyers is founded by a former prosecutor and police officer who are trauma informed and very experienced in family violence victims and perpetrators by reason of that work and their work in Family Law.
Contact us today to book a confidential consultation and take the first step towards a safer future.
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.
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.
The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) is divided into two divisions, with Division 1 handling the most complex and challenging family law cases. At Coastal Lawyers, we understand how daunting the legal system can be, especially when dealing with serious and sensitive matters. Here’s a brief overview of what Division 1 of the FCFCOA entails:
Division 1: Handling the Toughest Cases
Complex Parenting Disputes: Division 1 deals with the most intractable parenting disputes requiring substantial court time. These cases often involve serious allegations such as:
Physical or sexual abuse of children
Family violence
Mental health issues
Substance abuse
Critical Legal Matters: This division also covers other intricate areas of family law affecting children, including:
Domestic and international relocation
International child abduction under the Hague Convention
Medical procedures requiring court authorization
Appeals and Legal Precedents: Division 1 acts as an appeal court for decisions made by single judges of Division 1 and Division 2, as well as the former Family Court and FCCC.
Specialised Focus: Due to the complexity of these cases, Division 1 represents a small percentage of all family law cases. Most parenting disputes are resolved in Division 2, with Division 1 reserved for the most serious and complex matters.
At Coastal Lawyers we have had the privilege of being involved in several Division 1 cases and understand the seriousness of the legal issues involved. At Coastal Lawyers, we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring you have the support and expertise needed to navigate these challenging cases.
Facing a Complex Family Law Issue?
If you’re facing a complex family law issue, Coastal Lawyers can provide the expert legal support you need. Contact us today to book a consultation and let us help you through these difficult times.
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 have had the pleasure of representing a number of grandparents in respect of their grandparental rights. We know what an incredibly rewarding but difficult job it can be. We thought it was important to share some valuable resources and insights for our Central Coast grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.
The Joys and Challenges
Raising grandchildren can be an incredibly rewarding experience. You get to be a significant part of your grandchildren’s lives, providing them with love, stability, and wisdom that only a grandparent can offer. However, it can also be challenging. You might be dealing with legal complexities, financial strains, or simply the physical and emotional demands of raising children again.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
As a grandparent, you may have specific legal rights regarding the care of and contact with your grandchildren. At Coastal Lawyers, we’ve supported many grandparents in asserting these rights, whether it’s through obtaining custody, seeking visitation rights, or navigating the family law system to ensure the best outcomes for their grandchildren.
Practical Tips for Grandparents
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the challenges and make the most of this unique and fulfilling role:
Seek Legal Advice:
Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. Consulting with a family lawyer can provide clarity and ensure that you are taking the right steps to protect your grandchildren’s best interests.
Access Support Services:
There are numerous support services available for grandparents raising grandchildren. These services can offer financial assistance, counselling, and respite care. Don’t hesitate to reach out and use these resources.
Stay Informed:
Keep up-to-date with the latest information on parenting, legal changes, and available resources. Knowledge is power, and staying informed will help you navigate the complexities of your situation.
Build a Support Network:
Connect with other grandparents in similar situations. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly comforting and helpful. Local support groups or online communities can be a great source of support.
Focus on Self-Care:
Raising grandchildren can be physically and emotionally demanding. Make sure to take time for yourself, seek help when needed, and prioritize your own well-being.
A Wonderful Resource for Central Coast Grandparents
We recently came across a fantastic resource specifically for grandparents raising grandchildren. It provides comprehensive support and information tailored to the unique challenges faced by grandparents in this situation. You can find practical advice, emotional support, and connect with other grandparents through this resource. Check it out here.
Final Thoughts
Raising your grandchildren is no small feat, and at Coastal Lawyers, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need legal advice, emotional support, or simply someone to guide you through the complexities of your situation, our team is ready to help.
Need Legal Assistance?
If you’re a grandparent raising your grandchildren and need legal advice or representation, Coastal Lawyers is here for you. We offer compassionate, expert legal support to help you navigate your grandparental rights and ensure the best possible outcomes for your family.
Grandparents raising grandchildren, you are not alone. Coastal Lawyers is here to provide the support, guidance, and legal expertise you need to navigate this challenging but incredibly rewarding journey.
Contact us today to book a consultation and let us help you secure a bright future for your grandchildren.
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.
Feeling unsafe or threatened by someone? You’re not alone, and help is available. Applying for an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) can be a crucial step in protecting yourself. At Coastal Lawyers, we want to make this process as straightforward as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it.
Step 1: Recognize the Need for Protection
The first step is acknowledging that you fear someone, legally known as the defendant. This fear can arise from various forms of intimidation, threats, or physical violence. Recognizing this need for protection is the crucial first step.
Step 2: Initiate the Application
You have two options here:
The police can apply on your behalf, which is often the case in more severe situations. They’ll gather evidence and submit the application to the court.
Alternatively, you can personally go to your local court to complete an AVO application. The court staff are there to assist you, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Step 3: Serve the AVO Application
Once the application is completed, it must be served on the person you fear—the defendant. This means the defendant will be officially notified of the application and the claims against them. This is a necessary step to ensure that both parties are aware of the legal proceedings.
Step 4: Attend the Mention Hearing
After the application is served, the case will be listed for ‘mention’ at the local court. A mention is a preliminary hearing where the magistrate will review the application and decide on the next steps. Both you and the defendant will have the opportunity to attend this hearing.
Key Terms to Know
Defendant: The person defending against the AVO.
Applicant: The person seeking the AVO.
PINOP (Person in Need of Protection): This term refers to the person who requires the protection offered by the AVO.
Additional Support
At Coastal Lawyers, we understand that this process can be daunting. We’re here to provide you with the support and guidance you need every step of the way. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to proceed, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Need Help?
Coastal Lawyers are Central Coast family lawyers. We offer representation in all areas of family law, including AVOs, divorce, separation, parenting, property, and maintenance.
Contact us today to book a confidential consultation and take the first step towards ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
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.
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.
