Blog

Family law is a multifaceted and emotionally charged area of legal practice. One of the most critical and urgent aspects within this field is the issue of recovery orders. In Cairns, Queensland, as in the rest of Australia, recovery orders are a legal mechanism used to ensure the return of a child to their rightful guardian or to safeguard their welfare in cases of parental abduction or wrongful retention. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of recovery orders, their...

Procedural fairness is a very wide legal concept related to whether a court has exercised fairness when arriving at an administrative decision. The idea ensures that the court has not arrived at a decision that may be unfair, unjust or inequitable. Splitting order In family law, a splitting order is a common way to divide superannuation funds between parties. In the context of a superannuation split in family law, procedural fairness refers to ensuring that the process of dividing superannuation...

Guide to Accessing Court Transcripts in Queensland Court transcripts are an integral element of the legal system and obtaining a copy of a transcript for a court hearing can be useful for many reasons. Court transcripts provide an irrefutable written record of spoken words during a judicial hearing. They act as authoritative texts for judicial reviews, appeals, legal research and future literature. As of 10 October 2022, to obtain a transcript for your own court hearing, you are required to...

No Need to Prove Fault for Divorce Despite what you may see on television shows, movies or in the media, there is no need to prove that a party to a marriage was ‘at fault’ for a relationship breakdown. It is a common misconception that if one party’s behaviour contributes to the relationship breakdown, the other spouse will receive a more favourable outcome in the property settlement or parenting arrangements. Put simply, the actions of one party in contributing to...

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across the world. In Cairns, Queensland, the impact of domestic violence is profound, leading to significant physical, emotional, and psychological harm. This blog post aims to provide an in-depth understanding of domestic violence, the legal framework surrounding it in Queensland, and the available family law resources for victims in Cairns. What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence, also known as family violence, encompasses a range of abusive behaviours that...

Family trusts and rural properties play significant roles in the fabric of family life and business in Cairns, Queensland. Understanding how these elements intersect with family law is essential for those who own rural properties and utilise family trusts. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of family trusts, their advantages and drawbacks, and how rural properties are treated under family law in Cairns. Introduction to Family Trusts A family trust, often referred to as a discretionary trust, is a legal...

In the intricate tapestry of legal frameworks governing personal finances and estate planning, two crucial documents often stand at the forefront: Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) and Wills. While both serve distinct purposes, their intersection can significantly impact individuals' financial security and estate distribution, particularly in Queensland, Australia. Understanding Binding Financial Agreements Binding Financial Agreements, commonly referred to as BFAs, are legal contracts entered into by parties to formalise financial arrangements, especially concerning property, spousal maintenance, and financial resources. In Queensland,...

The rise in domestic violence incidents, exacerbated by increased media coverage, has provoked significant political response. Governments, recognising the urgency of the issue, have initiated a series of measures aimed at addressing and mitigating domestic violence. These actions reflect a multifaceted approach that includes legislative changes, increased funding for support services, and public awareness campaigns. The political momentum has also influenced judicial practices, particularly concerning domestic violence orders (DVOs). Political Reaction In response to the surge in domestic violence cases,...

Binding Financial Agreement The Court imposes strict requirements for financial agreements to be binding as a binding agreement will oust the jurisdiction of the Court to make orders under the Act (subject to the power of the Court to set the agreement aside). The first of the technical requirements is that the agreement must specify the relevant section of the Act under which the agreement is made. In the absence of an express provision in the document the agreement is...

Estate planning is often considered a complex and daunting task, yet it is a crucial aspect of ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. In Cairns, a city nestled in the tropical paradise of Far North Queensland, estate planning in Cairns takes on unique considerations due to the diverse range of assets and the legal landscape. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, understanding the fundamentals of estate planning is essential...

Child support agreements play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of children after the dissolution of a relationship. In Cairns, Queensland, like elsewhere in Australia, these agreements are governed by specific laws and regulations. Understanding the intricacies of binding child support agreements is essential for both parents to navigate this process smoothly and ensure the best interests of their children. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the nuances of binding child support agreements in Cairns, Queensland, exploring the...

Family law property disputes can be emotionally and financially draining for all parties involved. In Cairns, Queensland, mediation offers a constructive way to resolve these conflicts outside of the courtroom. Understanding the mediation process, its benefits, and how it operates within the context of Queensland's legal framework is essential for anyone navigating a family law property dispute. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of family law property mediation in Cairns, Queensland, offering insights, tips, and essential information...

In the tropical paradise of Cairns, where the Great Barrier Reef meets the lush rainforests, the challenges and triumphs of co-parenting after separation take on a unique flavour. As the city buzzes with the energy of adventure seekers and embraces the tranquillity of its natural surroundings, families transitioning through separation find themselves amidst a backdrop of both beauty and complexity.  In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricacies of co-parenting in Cairns, exploring the dynamics, resources, and strategies that...

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects families throughout Australia, including those residing in Cairns, Queensland. In the face of such adversity, seeking assistance is crucial for victims and their families to ensure their safety and well-being. Cairns offers various resources and support systems tailored to address the complexities of domestic violence situations. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to navigating domestic violence assistance in Cairns, Queensland, focusing on legal avenues, support services, and community resources...

The Leaving Violence Program The Government has established a new scheme whereby $925.2 million is being invested over five years to permanently establish the Leaving Violence Program. The purpose of this program is to help those escaping domestic violence, ensuring that they receive financial support, safety assessments and referrals to support pathways. Those eligible will be able to access up to $5,000 in financial support along with referral services, risk assessments and safety planning. To be eligible for this scheme,...

Cairns, Queensland, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural diversity, is home to a growing population of migrant families. As these families settle into their new lives in Australia, they often encounter unique challenges at the intersection of family law and immigration. In this blog post, we will explore the various considerations and legal aspects that migrant families in Cairns should be aware of, offering guidance and insights to help navigate these complex issues. Understanding Family Law in...

File on the Commonwealth Courts Portal To access court documents or electronically file them on the Commonwealth Courts Portal, users firstly need to complete the registration process. This blog provides a step-by-step guide with visual aids to help you access your file. Please note: If you already have a file with the Court, you will need to link yourself to it using your file number and client number. It is crucial to ensure that all proceedings (past and future) involving...

In Cairns, like many other places, family law matters can often be emotionally charged and complex. While some cases may seem destined for litigation, alternative dispute resolution methods offer families an opportunity to resolve their issues outside of court. These methods prioritise collaboration, communication, and reaching mutually beneficial solutions. In this blog, we'll delve into the various ADR methods available for family law matters in Cairns, highlighting their benefits and considerations. Understanding Alternative Dispute Resolution Alternative Dispute Resolution encompasses a...

If you are in the process of separating and settling financial matters, it is vital that you understand the importance of providing and receiving financial disclosure to and from your former spouse. What is financial disclosure? In family lawfinancial proceedings, Rule 6.06 of the Family Law Rules imputes each party with a duty of full and frank disclosure. This means that you must provide to your former spouse all information financial relevant to the dispute, and vice versa. You and...

Surrogacy is a complex and emotionally charged process that involves various legal, ethical, and personal considerations. In Cairns, Queensland, like many other parts of the world, surrogacy raises questions about parenthood, reproductive rights, and the well-being of all parties involved. In this blog, we'll delve into the legal implications and considerations surrounding surrogacy in Cairns, Queensland, shedding light on the processes, laws, and ethical dimensions involved. Understanding Surrogacy Surrogacy is a reproductive arrangement in which a woman agrees to carry...