How do I know if I need a family lawyer?

If you’re dealing with relationship changes or complex personal matters and feel unsure about your next move, connecting with a family law professional can help clarify your situation. They can explain your rights, break down your available options, and help you plan the best path forward. People often seek assistance for: Separation Divorce De facto relationship disputes Property division Same-sex relationship matters Superannuation entitlements Concerns involving family violence Also, family violence isn’t always physical. It may involve emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, financial manipulation, or damage to property. Recognising these signs is an important first step toward protecting your wellbeing.

What does a family lawyer do in Australia?

When it comes to divorce, property settlements, and de facto relationships, family lawyers help clients manage legal and financial matters after a relationship ends. They assist with dividing assets, drafting agreements, and representing clients in negotiations or court where required. By applying the Family Law Act, they provide clarity on your rights and help you move forward with practical, informed decisions.

What is the Family Law Act in New South Wales?

The Family Law Act 1975 is a federal statute that applies throughout Australia, including in New South Wales. It sets out the legal framework for matters like divorce, parenting arrangements, financial separation, and spousal contributions. A key focus of the Act is the wellbeing of children. It encourages parties to resolve disputes through communication and out-of-court processes before involving the court system. While the legislation is national, family courts in NSW apply its provisions to resolve local cases.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Australia?

Most divorce proceedings in Australia are completed in about four months from the date of filing. This timeframe may shift depending on court availability, how complex the case is, and whether both parties are in agreement. If you're considering taking this step, it’s helpful to understand the process before moving forward.

What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?

Although both involve relationship breakdowns, they carry different legal outcomes: Separation means a couple lives apart but remains legally married. Parenting arrangements and asset division may still take place without ending the marriage. Divorce formally dissolves the marriage, allowing each person to legally remarry. Separation can be temporary or indefinite. Divorce, however, is final. Deciding which path to take often depends on individual circumstances and long-term plans.

Expertise

Divorce - Property Settlements - De Facto Relationships

Family Lawyers Engadine

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Extensive Experience

The family law team at Kells in Engadine brings years of hands-on experience in matters such as divorce, property settlements, and de facto relationships.

Dedicated Team

We take pride in delivering clear, efficient legal services. Our aim is to simplify each stage, manage expenses wisely, and keep you informed throughout the process.

Trusted Family Lawyers

Your priorities drive everything we do. We understand the emotional and practical hurdles involved in family law. That’s why we offer level-headed, results-driven strategies to help you move forward confidently.

Here to Help

Facing complex family issues and unsure where to begin? Wondering how to secure the best outcome for your property arrangements?

Family-related legal challenges often come with emotional stress and financial pressure. But knowing your position and understanding your options can make all the difference.

We offer family law services in Engadine with a clear, client-first approach. You’ll receive practical insights to help you make confident, well-informed choices throughout the process.

Our team includes a NSW Accredited Specialist in Family Law, along with experienced solicitors, paralegals, law clerks, and administrative staff. We are committed to providing dependable advice while keeping your expenses in check — so you’re supported every step of the way.

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How Can Our Engadine Family Lawyers Help?

We assist individuals in Engadine with matters related to the breakdown of relationships, the fair division of assets, and de facto separation. Whether you're ending a marriage, sorting out financial arrangements, or seeking clarity around your legal rights in a de facto relationship, our team provides the support and representation you need to move forward with confidence.

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Divorce

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Property Settlements

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De Facto Relationships

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Do you have a question about family law or relationship law?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a family lawyer?
If you’re dealing with relationship changes or complex personal matters and feel unsure about your next move, connecting with a family law professional can help clarify your situation. They can explain your rights, break down your available options, and help you plan the best path forward.

People often seek assistance for:
- Separation
- Divorce
- De facto relationship disputes
- Property division
- Same-sex relationship matters
- Superannuation entitlements
- Concerns involving family violence
Also, family violence isn’t always physical. It may involve emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, financial manipulation, or damage to property. Recognising these signs is an important first step toward protecting your wellbeing.
What does a family lawyer do in Australia?

When it comes to divorce, property settlements, and de facto relationships, family lawyers help clients manage legal and financial matters after a relationship ends. They assist with dividing assets, drafting agreements, and representing clients in negotiations or court where required.

By applying the Family Law Act, they provide clarity on your rights and help you move forward with practical, informed decisions.
What is the Family Law Act in New South Wales?

The Family Law Act 1975 is a federal statute that applies throughout Australia, including in New South Wales. It sets out the legal framework for matters like divorce, parenting arrangements, financial separation, and spousal contributions. A key focus of the Act is the wellbeing of children. It encourages parties to resolve disputes through communication and out-of-court processes before involving the court system. While the legislation is national, family courts in NSW apply its provisions to resolve local cases.
How long does it take to get a divorce in Australia?

Most divorce proceedings in Australia are completed in about four months from the date of filing. This timeframe may shift depending on court availability, how complex the case is, and whether both parties are in agreement. If you're considering taking this step, it’s helpful to understand the process before moving forward.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?
Although both involve relationship breakdowns, they carry different legal outcomes:
- Separation means a couple lives apart but remains legally married. Parenting arrangements and asset division may still take place without ending the marriage.
- Divorce formally dissolves the marriage, allowing each person to legally remarry.
Separation can be temporary or indefinite. Divorce, however, is final. Deciding which path to take often depends on individual circumstances and long-term plans.