When it comes to family law disputes, many people come to mediation after months of lawyer assisted negotiations or discussions between themselves. By then, they’re often firmly attached to their legal “rights” and positions. While knowing your rights and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your case is absolutely essential, mediation requires a different mindset. Instead of focusing on winning or losing, mediation works best when both parties are willing to move from their starting

For separated or divorced parents, creating a parenting plan is a great way to establish clear, agreed-upon arrangements for raising your children. A parenting plan covers everything from living arrangements and visitation schedules to decision-making responsibilities, making co-parenting smoother and less stressful. But how do you get started? At Coastal Lawyers, we guide parents through this process with clarity and care. Mediation: The Key to a Parenting Plan Most parenting plans are developed through mediation,

At Coastal Lawyers, we represent clients at all Central Coast and Newcastle Local Courts, including Gosford Local Court and Wyong Local Court. With years of experience in these courts, appearing before them has become second nature to us. However, for those unfamiliar with the court process, it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. In this week’s blog, we provide a simple rundown on the Local Court of NSW, helping you understand how it operates

At Coastal Lawyers, we understand that separation is one of the most challenging transitions a person can face. That’s why we’ve created this practical, trauma-informed checklist to guide you through the early steps. Our team is here to provide legal advice and emotional support to help you feel confident and empowered during this time. 1. Secure Your Finances Online Banking: Change your login details to ensure your accounts are secure. If your ex-partner has access,

What is Coercive Control? Coercive control is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to dominate, manipulate, and control a partner. Unlike physical violence, coercive control can include subtle and persistent behaviors that isolate, intimidate, and degrade the victim, severely impacting their freedom and well-being. Examples of coercive control include: Isolating the victim from friends and family. Monitoring movements, communication, or finances. Intimidation, manipulation, and threats. Restricting access to money or resources. Acts of humiliation or

If you’re in the middle of a family law dispute and the court has ordered a Conciliation Conference, you might wonder what to expect and how to make the most of it. A Conciliation Conference is essentially a court-ordered mediation aimed at helping you and your former partner resolve your property or financial issues without the need for a drawn-out court battle. It’s your opportunity to settle things with less stress, less expense, and in

There are times in life where you might need to provide a National Criminal History Record Check (NCHRC)—essentially your criminal record, or confirmation that you don’t have one. This document can be required for a range of reasons, including: Employment: Many employers request a criminal record check, especially for roles involving security, finance, or positions working with vulnerable individuals. Visa Applications: Immigration authorities often require a record check to assess eligibility for visas and residency

If you’ve recently been charged with a traffic offence, like drink driving, you might have come across something called the Traffic Offenders Program. This program is not just a box-ticking exercise; it’s designed to educate drivers and reduce repeat offences by offering a second chance for people to understand the serious responsibility we all have as road users. Let’s dive into what it is, why you might consider it, and how it can benefit you

When relationships break down, dividing property can be one of the most challenging aspects of separation. Inheritances often complicate the process further. Under the Family Law Act 1975, inheritances are generally considered part of the property pool available for division, but their treatment depends on the unique circumstances of each case. Here’s what you need to know about how inheritances are handled in family law. Key Factors in Determining Inheritance Division 1. Timing of the

When parents separate, one of the most complex and sensitive issues involves determining parenting arrangements. A common question arises: how much say do children have in deciding where they live or how they spend time with each parent? In family law matters, the court does consider children’s views, but several factors determine the weight given to their wishes. Key Factors in Considering a Child’s Wishes 1. Age and Maturity The older and more mature a