1. Property

Upon the breakdown of the relationship where assets and liabilities have accumulated, they will need to be divided between the two (2) parties.

It is imperative to obtain advice as to your rights and entitlements whether your relationship was one of marriage or de facto.

The relevant legislation provides for numerous factors which may be considered in determining your rights and entitlements, and Sophie Pearson is able to provide you with high quality, realistic advice in conjunction with accountants and financial advisors to obtain the best possible outcome for you.

2. Children

The breakdown of a relationship is stressful at any time, however, when children are involved, the paramount consideration must be that of the children’s best interests.

Changes to the Family Law Act in 2006 now refer to the parents having equal shared responsibility for their children.

Each family and their members are individual and the advice provided needs to be as individual as the family members and their situation.

Sophie can provide you with that individual advice and creative options.

3. Domestic Violence

Unfortunately, no social class is immune from domestic violence.

In the event that you have either been a victim of domestic violence or have been served with an application for a protection order, representation at Court, advice and the serious ramifications on the making of an order is necessary and may impact greatly on your work and any possible family law or children’s matters application.

4. Going to Court

In some cases, agreement cannot be reached due to a number of factors which may be involved.

If your matter is one that needs to be determined by a Judge of the Family Court or a Federal Magistrate, we are able to provide you with succinct advice and superior preparation of court documents to enable you to obtain the best possible decision from the Court.

Sophie Pearson has extensive litigation experience in Court, as well as access to Barristers and independent experts.

5. Alternative Dispute Resolution and Collaborative Law

In many matters, a grievance between the parties can be successfully negotiated by various means including negotiation and mediation. Parties who reach agreement by way of alternative dispute resolution are able to finalise their property or children’s matters on terms which are agreed between them, rather than a decision made by an unfamiliar Judge or Federal Magistrate,

Collaborative Law is a practice which has gained momentum through the Family Law Practitioners, their clients and the Attorney General with the launch of the website, ‘Queensland Collaborative Lawyers’. (website: qldcollablaw.com.au)

More information on Collaborative Law can be found via the above link.

Sophie Pearson is a trained Collaborative Law professional and is able to provide you with this respectful alternative to going to Court.

6. Agreements

Agreements dealing with the division of either matrimonial or de facto assets and liabilities can be made either at the beginning of or in contemplation of a relationship, during or at the end of a relationship. Recognised cohabitation, separation and binding financial agreements can be used to protect your assets, determine their distribution and provide for spousal maintenance.

The agreements are complex and are drafted for your specific needs no matter how simple or complex your financial circumstances are.