Family Court and Family Law Lawyer Pakenham
Just Family Law are experienced family law solicitors assisting residents of Pakenham and surrounding areas with all aspects of family law. Whether you are navigating a separation, working through parenting arrangements, or finalising property division, our team brings over 25 years of experience and care to every matter.
Divorce
To legally end a marriage, you must apply for a divorce order through the court. While the application is relatively straightforward, the wider legal implications are often not. A family court lawyer Pakenham residents rely on can guide you through the process and help ensure key issues are not overlooked.
To be eligible, you must have been separated for at least 12 months. If you remained living together during that time, extra evidence will be needed. Once the application is submitted, a third party must serve it to your former spouse at least 28 days before the court hearing. Once granted, the divorce becomes final one month and one day later.
If children under 18 are involved, the court requires evidence that proper arrangements are in place. Divorce is often just the beginning. You may also need to resolve:
- Property and financial settlements
- Child arrangements
- Updates to your will
Property & Financial Settlement
Separation can have a lasting financial impact. To formally end your financial relationship with a former partner, a fair property settlement is essential. Without one, shared control over assets can remain, making it harder to move on.
At Just Family Law, our team is skilled in handling complex disputes involving property, superannuation, and financial resources. If you are looking for a family law lawyer Pakenham locals trust, we can support you in negotiating or applying for a just division of assets.
The court considers both financial and non-financial contributions as well as future needs, regardless of whose name an asset is in. Most cases require parties to try negotiation or mediation before court involvement. Working with a family court lawyer in Pakenham helps you reach an outcome that aligns with what the court is likely to approve. Situations where legal advice is especially important include:
- Large inheritances or family contributions
- Business valuations or disputes
- Assets in trusts or third-party names
- Financial dishonesty or lack of cooperation
- Disputes involving external parties
We offer clear guidance and represent your interests every step of the way.
Children’s Arrangements
Making decisions about children after separation is never easy. Balancing your own future with your children’s needs takes thoughtful planning. A family law lawyer in Pakenham can help ensure decisions are made in their best interests. Parents often disagree on:
- Parenting styles
- Nights per fortnight
- Changeover logistics
- Schooling preferences
- Holiday arrangements
Many of these issues can be resolved out of court. However, we also work with clients facing more difficult situations, including:
- High conflict or emotionally charged relationships
- Family violence or controlling behaviour
- Relocation or interstate moves
- Mental health or addiction issues
Determining how much time children spend with each parent is one of the most sensitive decisions. A family court lawyer Pakenham families turn to can help you manage residence, schooling, communication, and safety concerns.
The Family Law Act prioritises meaningful relationships with both parents where safe. Most matters begin with mediation, but if it fails, you will need a certificate to proceed to court. Once in court, a judge makes the final parenting orders based on the evidence provided.
Our lawyers prepare documentation thoroughly and give honest, strategic advice to help you make informed decisions from the outset.
Why choose Just Family Law?
Working with a family law lawyer in Pakenham who combines legal knowledge with compassion can make a real difference. At Just Family Law, we offer:
- Accredited Specialist – Law Institute of Victoria
- Over 25 years of exclusive family law experience
- Supportive, strategic and focused legal advice
- Transparent guidance and advocacy through negotiation or court
Whether you need a family court lawyer in Pakenham for a dispute or want to resolve matters amicably, we are here to help. Call 03 9793 7888 to see if you are eligible for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
We specialise in all areas of family and divorce law
Our family law lawyers are a complete family law service team. They deal with separation, divorce and family law issues including dividing assets after separation, arrangements for children, grandparent’s rights, inheritance disputes, business valuations, loans from parents and claims to property.
We feel very proud of our
achievements
We endeavor to utilize our extensive knowledge in every facet of family law.
We make sure our clients are never put at a disadvantage during the divorce process.
Clients Served
Years Experience
Success Rate
Transparency
Our circumstances in engaging JFL were due to the sudden and tragic passing of my sister. Sally assisted our family through complex legal proceedings as we sought full parental responsibilities for her three children, my nieces and nephew.
Sally was able to shift from holding my hand and passing tissues, to providing practical solutions, advice and guidance on how best to navigate the legal system and achieve what was in the best interest of the kids.
Thank you Sally, we will never be able to express how much you did for us and how your counsel and friendship helped us navigate an incredibly difficult time.
No hesitation at all in recommending Sally, and the JFL team.
