Spousal Maintenance
Spousal Maintenance
A person has a responsibility to financially assist their spouse (including de facto and same sex partner) if the spouse's personal income or assets cannot meet their own reasonable needs.
Divorce
An application for divorce can be made by either party to a marriage or by both parties jointly, after the parties have been separated for a period of at least 12 months immediately preceding the filing of the application.
De Facto/Same sex relationships
Upon the breakdown of a de facto or same sex relationship either party can seek to negotiate, mediate or litigate any property issues arising from the breakdown of their relationship.
Mediation
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) or mediation is now required in all parenting matters before Court proceedings can be initiated. This means you must have at least tried or been invited to participate in mediation.
Enforcement of Orders
Unfortunately, even where agreements have been reached or Family Court orders made, it can be necessary to take steps to enforce an agreement where one party does not comply with the terms of the agreement or the terms of an order.