How long do you have to be separated before divorce? It’s a question we get often here at Hickman Family Lawyers. Let’s take a look at how long you have to be separated before you can legally divorce. How Long Do You Have To Be Separated Before Divorce? To ensure that a marriage has irretrievably broken down without any chance for a reconciliation, Australian Family Law requires a couple to have been separated for a minimum period of 12 months before applying for divorce. If the marriage has lasted for less than 2 years, there is an extra requirement before you can apply for divorce. You nee ..read more

If you’re wondering how to get a restraining order, you might be asking what evidence is needed to get a restraining order. Depending on the type of restraining order you are seeking, you may be asked to supply different kinds of evidence and supporting documents to show why you need a restraining order to be granted. Our family lawyers in Perth share their insights into what evidence is needed to get a restraining order in WA. Types of Restraining Orders There are three types of restraining orders you can apply for in Western Australia: Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO)  This o ..read more

Interstate travel with children after separation can be tricky to navigate. If your ex is not agreeable to them travelling interstate, it can create more tension in your co-parenting relationship. However, allowing kids to travel interstate with family, friends or on school trips, can be amazing experiences so here’s what you need to know about interstate travel with children after separation. Can I Travel Interstate with My Children After Separation? If there is a parenting order or parenting plan in place, it is imperative that you first check its conditions to ensure that you comply with ..read more

Can you create a binding financial agreement after separation? A binding financial agreement (BFA) can be drawn at any time before, during or after a marriage or a de facto relationship. It is wise to draw up a BFA as soon as possible after separation, as if you fail to reach agreement with your ex-partner, a court application for a property settlement must be made within two years from the date of separation for de facto couples, or within 12 months of your divorce date for married couples. What is a binding financial agreement? A binding financial agreement is an agreement setting out all ..read more

Have you head the term ‘separation under one roof’? With the spiralling cost-of-living crisis in Australia currently, this is becoming more and more commonplace when couples split. We’ve put together everything you need to know about separation under one roof. Legal Definition of Separation Under One Roof Under Australian Family Law it is mandatory for a couple to have been separated for a period of at least 12 months before applying for a divorce. In many cases, it is not possible for either party to live in a separate home and so the law allows for such couples to continue living under one ..read more

What do family lawyers do? It’s a common question, and often goes far beyond what most people think family lawyers do – battle it out in court all day to get the most money for their clients. A good family lawyer will find the best solution for the whole family – not just their client, but the family unit as a whole. Our family lawyers in Perth share some of the key things we help our clients with on a daily basis, from family mediation to annulments and restraining orders. What Is Family Law? Family law is a discipline of civil law that deals with all family matters, particularly in marriag ..read more

Are you wondering how to financially separate from a spouse? Physical separation can be something that’s much simpler to arrange than financial separation. Financial separation requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that all boxes are ticked and you can move on with your life financially. Here are our top tips on how to financially separate from your spouse after you decide to separate or divorce. Tips To Financially Separate From Your Spouse Find Your Financial Starting Point In order to find your financial starting point, you need to carry out a complete financial stocktake ..read more

If you’re in the process of separating from your spouse, you might be wondering how to protect your assets in a divorce. It’s important to remember that it’s never too early to think about protecting assets in the event of a divorce – this can be done before commencing a de facto relationship or marriage, or at any stage of a relationship – not just once you have decided to divorce. In fact, it’s much simpler and often cheaper to protect your assets before separation is even a consideration. Let’s take a look at how to protect your assets in a divorce. 9 Tips To Protect Your Assets In A Divor ..read more

If you’re worried about the expenses that are going to be associated with your separation and divorce, this blog is for you. Our family lawyers in Perth have put together their personal tips on what to do if you can’t afford to divorce, to help you reduce your potential divorce costs. Getting divorced is never a cheap experience. Even if you and your ex are amicable and can come to your own agreements without fighting it out through the Family Courts, there will always be legal fees to pay. 9 Tips If You Can’t Afford To Divorce Review Your Finances Your first step would be to carry out a tho ..read more

How much does it cost to get divorced in Western Australia? It’ a question we hear often, and while circumstances will vary from case to case, there are some set fees you will face when it comes to getting divorced in WA. How Much Does It Cost To Get Divorced In Western Australia Let’s take a closer look at what it could cost to get divorced in Western Australia. Court Fees To Get Divorced In Western Australia As of 1 July 2023, there are certain fees set by Federal Government Regulations. The fee for an application for divorce currently costs $1060. Fees must be filed with the Family Cour ..read more