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FAQs: Merger of Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia
September 7th, 2021 | by newwaylawyersThe Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia have merged. Let’s navigate the family law court merger together with some FAQs:
Q: When did the merger take effect?
A From 1 September 2021
Q: What will the new Court be called?
A The amalgamated new court will be known as Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCA).
Q: What is the reason for this merger?
The main reason for the merger is :-
- to reduce costs and delay in family litigation and to encourage proceedings to be conducted in a more calm and civil manner
- to facilitate the fair resolution of disputes as quickly, inexpensively, and efficiently as possible
Q: How will delays and backlogs be reduced?
A: The FCFCA will place greater emphasis on encouraging parties to settle their matters, where it is safe to do so through dispute resolution. This means there will be less final hearings and Court events, reducing the Court’s workload.
Q: What protection will be afforded to children?
A: The FCFCA will place emphasis on the need to protect the rights of children, promote their welfare and protect them from family violence.
Q: Will there only be one Court after the family law court merger?
A There will be one court, but two divisions of that court. The Family Court of Australia will become the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court of Australia (Division 1). The Federal Circuit Court of Australia will become the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court of Australia (Division 2).
Q: What is the difference between Division 1 and Division 2?
Essentially, applications will be filed in Division 2 and appeals will be heard in Division 1.
Q: Will the current Court forms still apply?
A Yes and no. The FCFCA has streamlined its procedures and new forms are now available on the new FCFCA website. The FCFCA will accept the old forms for a grace period of 90 days from 1 September 2021. After this time, the new forms must be used when applying to the Court.
Q: What is the new FCFCA website address?
A: https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/
Q: What does this mean for my family law proceedings?
A: You will not be required to do anything if your matter is already in the court system. If your matter was previously in the Family Court of Australia, it will now be listed in Division 1. If your matter was previously in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, it will now be listed in Division 2.
Q What forms am I required to file if I want to commence a financial or parenting application in Court?
A If you are filing an application in the new Court, you can look at their website to find a list of the forms you will be required to file in support of that application.
The Court’s information about required documents for applications can be found here: https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/fl/ss-overview
If you require any assistance in your family law matter please call us on 07 3548 5850 or contact us here.
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Tips for getting your mental health back on track post separation
September 3rd, 2021 | by Che
Going through a separation is never going to be a walk in the park, but sadly, with everyone in the process of trying to sort everything out while keeping the kids as sheltered as possible during this time, we often forgo out own mental health in the progress.
The thing is, if we are not taking care of ourselves, how can we possibly expect to be our best for the other people who rely on us? I like to use the plane analogy of “always fit your mask first before helping others”. In the instance of using oxygen when needed in an aeroplane, it is common sense, as if you pass out you can’t help anyone else. But this logic makes sense in a lot of other aspects of our lives too.So while I am not saying that my suggestions below are going to make all of your problems go away, they can help reduce the stress and anxiety and hopefully help get your mental health back on track after separation.Here are a few simple suggestions that may help if you’re feeling a bit more stressed or anxious than usual.
Try some Meditation.
Being a meditation and mindfulness instructor, of course I’m going to recommend this and if you haven’t tried meditation before, now’s the time. Why? Because it’s something that you can do by yourself anywhere and anytime and all you need is 10-20 minutes to get the benefits.
I originally became interested in meditation as a means to improve my productivity at work and I found it to be very beneficial. However it wasn’t until I went through a 10-year relationship break up, two family members were diagnosed with cancer and there were some financial issues with one of my investments, all in the period of 3- months that I started to really need it and be grateful that I had the practise in my life.Recent research published this year has found that mindfulness exercises, such as meditation may reduce anxiety, depression and stress making it a gold mine for your mental health. Given the year that has passed, incidences of mental health problems have doubled, meditation may be just want we need to get ourselves back on track again.Spend time in nature.
Being in nature is so good for your mental health. There are even terms for it now such as forest bathing if you are out amongst the trees. Also, being by running water produces negative ions with believe it or not, make you happy!
Try to get outside, or better still in nature as much as you can. Even if you only have time to go for a walk near where you live.When I am stressed I often challenge myself to find 5 things I haven’t noticed before. I find that it is a great exercise to help you appreciate the world around you.There’s still so much to be grateful for.
While you may not feel like it, practicing gratitude in times like this can really be helpful because it pulls the brain out of worry & anxiety and forces it to think of something that is good and present, right here, right now. Think about the people who are supportive around you, the fact that we now have the ability to be informed almost in real-time of how we deal with serious issues like the one we are facing right now. These are all blessings and reminding yourself of them right now will help.
Find Time to do the things you love
Why is it that when we are stressed, busy or something goes wrong, it’s always the things that make us happy that we stop doing? Make sure you make time to do at least one thing you enjoy. If it can’t happen everyday, aim for every week. When we are going through a hard time, it is always good to have something to look forward to. Whether it is exercise, which is something I recommend everyone do as much as possible, dancing, seeing your friends, watching your favourite show, make it happen. Everyone is going to have challenges in their life, but remember life is for living and try your best to get your head back up as soon as you can.
Luke McLeod is a meditation and mindfulness instructor and the founder of Soul Alive.
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What happens when you’re not happy with a family law mediation agreement?
August 31st, 2021 | by newwaylawyersFamily Mediation is a cost effective and emotionally supportive process that assists separating couples reach amicable financial, property and parenting arrangements. Sometimes though, you may wonder if an agreement you reached in mediation was the best outcome and whether you should have agreed to it.
Be aware of the emotions that accompany family law mediation
Mediation can be a tumultuous process. Unresolved feelings from the past may surface and fears about the future may also be present. It is important to be kind to yourself while going through mediation and seek counselling support to help you through.
How to feel content with your family mediation agreements
Given mediation can raise a mix of emotions, there are a few simple things you can do to make sure you feel content with an agreement you reach in mediation;
- Remember there are no ‘winners.’ Mediators do not make decisions for you or take sides. The aim of the process is for each party to compromise and make agreements that they feel they can comfortably live with.
- Stay ‘future focused.’ Try not to dwell on the past or allow your feelings for the other person to hinder your ability to move on and reach agreements.
- Get legal advice. It can be beneficial to get legal advice at the following points (1) prior to your first mediation session with your ex-partner, (2) after you and your ex-partner have reached a draft mediated agreement; and (3) once you have a final mediation agreement, to discuss formalising your mediated agreement so it is legally binding . By seeking legal advice at these different times, you can be sure of the implications of what you are agreeing to and what is reasonable in your particular circumstance.
- Take advice wisely. Your friends and family love you and they want the best for you. Sometimes, however, they will give you advice that is not helpful or even, correct. It’s important to get the facts from family lawyers, mediators, other professionals and medical specialists.
So what happens if you reached an agreement in a family law mediation that you now regret?
It is important to know that mediated agreements are not binding. The best course of action is to talk to a family lawyer as soon as possible about the mediated agreement. Remember, seeking legal advice, does not automatically mean you have to go to Court or start a litigious process. In fact, you may simply be able to schedule another mediation and discuss outcomes you feel more comfortable with, based on your legal advice.
If you would like to talk to one of our experienced family lawyers about an upcoming mediation, or a mediation agreement that you are now unhappy with, please contact us today for a free 20 minute consultation.
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Family Law and Family Pets
August 20th, 2021 | by newwaylawyers
Whether they’re furry, feathery or otherwise, pets provide fun, joy and companionship for the whole family. But what happens to the family pet following separation?
The law around pets and separation
The emotional attachment with our pets means we think of them as family members rather than as mere possessions. Unfortunately though, the law in Australia does not reflect this sentiment.
No custody arrangements for pets
The Family Law Act deals with pets as personal property, in the same way it deals with other personal property like cars and furniture. This means the family pet will be kept by one person and there is no provision for pet custody arrangements, unless an agreement for this can be reached.
Are pets considered an asset in the property pool?
Although pets are considered as personal property normally they are not assigned a monetary value like other assets. However, in certain situations where a pet has a pedigree or where a pet is used for breeding or competition then a financial value may be assigned. This was the situation in a case called Walmsely & Walmsley. The Court held that the pedigree pets were worth $3,000. The wife retained the pets and they were counted as an asset retained by her.
What to consider when making arrangements for a pet
It is always best for separating couples to try to reach an agreement about who will retain the family pet rather than resorting to legal proceedings. In making appropriate arrangements for the pet, consideration should be given to the following:
- which person has the most suitable living arrangements and lifestyle for accommodating the pet;
- the bond between the pet and the children and how this can be best maintained;
- who has the financial means to meet the ongoing costs of maintaining the pet.
What if the separating couple cant agree on who the pet is to live with?
If an agreement can’t be reached about arrangements for the pet and a Judge decides who will retain the pet, a range of factors will be considered including:
- when was the pet purchased;
- who purchased the pet and the circumstances of the purchase, for example was it a gift to one of the parties;
- who is the registered owner of the pet;
- who was the main carer for the pet during the relationship, for example who fed the pet, took them for walks and took them to the vet;
- who was responsible for the financial for the pet;
- who has been caring for the pet since separation;
- who has the best ongoing capacity to care for the pet considering living arrangements, lifestyle and financial means;
- the bond between the parties and the children; and
- how the pet arrangements impact the separation broadly.
The above information is intended to provide general information about how family pets are treated in family law matters and does not represent legal advice. If you would like legal advice about family law matters please call New Way Lawyers on 07 3548 5868 or join our free facebook Lunch with a Lawyer where you can ask your questions for free each lunch time.
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Embracing and dealing with change after separation and divorce
August 12th, 2021 | by newwaylawyersWhat’s normal to feel during a significant life change like separation/divorce?
Separation or divorce can turn our life and often our long term dreams upside down. It is a pivot in our personal life, which is a fundamental change in our life strategy that can bring you to the depths of despair and loneliness. We can experience waves of emotions such as angry, sad, anxious, hurt, embarrassed, happy and relieved. It is a new world for many to feel or even face and deal with these emotions that they may have never felt before.
‘Change is hardest in the beginning, messy in the middle and best at the end ‘– Robin Sharma.What are the stages of change that someone might experience?
Addressing the stages of change in a healthy way often looks like this:
1. Start where you are by expressing the event, feel the pain, name it, own it and understand and be gentle with your emotions.
2. Assess and take stock of where we are now at, and learn the stages of grief so you can feel supported as you understand that you will have to go through the stages, and then develop your immediate survival plan.
3. Change continues on as you start the healing journey and once ready, you are able to start and plant some new seeds as you find your new normal.
How do you navigate these stages of change in light of separation?
- Stage 1 – Recognises and Respond – Stop and breathe, acknowledge your feelings and fear, embrace grief and choose your story
- Stage 2 – Restore and Recover – Sink into self care, renew and refuel, open the path to positivity and relinquish the past – know that you have got this
- Stage 3 – Redirect and Reset – Rebuild your foundation, plant new seeds, create a new roadmap with fresh vision for your life and start being the change you wish to see
- Stage 4 – Rejoice and Radiate – Embark on the journey, Embrace some joy again, claim back your personal power and celebrate your new wins.
What journaling questions can help during this time?
Journaling brings you back to you to discover what is most important and to unpack the feelings you are experiencing.
- What are your fears?
- What are you looking forward to?
- What are you learning about yourself?
- What are you grateful for today?
- What are you most proud of?
- Where do you see opportunities for improvement in your life?
- Write down one regret and lesson learnt for yourself?
- What do you need now to be content?
- What can you change right now that you are in control of?
- What affirmation will support me most right now?
- Write down 3 ways you are going to take care of yourself?
Is it possible to come out of a situation feeling 100% at peace?
Yes it is. The most important relationship we have in the world is the one we have with ourselves. Loving ourselves, treating ourself like we would a best friend as happiness is an inside job.
You can read more about getting your mental health back on track after separation here.
About the author
Shannah Kennedy is an advanced certified coach and NLP practitioner and author of the newly released book ‘Plan B’. It’s an honour to have Shannah share with us her tips for navigating change because we are well aware of how life changing separation is. We hope this insight helps guide you to a healthy way to navigate your separation journey as you look to your future life, filled with hope.
A compassionate and caring approach to family law
Our client care program looks to equip clients with similar information and support throughout separation and difficult family matters.
If this compassionate and supportive approach to separation and divorce is of interest to you as you navigate the legal system, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team of experienced lawyers for a free 20 minute consultation with a family lawyer.
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How is Spousal Maintenance determined?
June 3rd, 2021 | by newwaylawyersWhat is spousal maintenance in Australia?
When a marriage or de facto relationship breaks down, it may be that one party will be unable to meet their financial needs An ongoing obligation may arise for the other party to pay financial support, regardless of separation. This payment is known as spousal maintenance or also spousal support. Spousal maintenance can be paid by regular payments, also known as periodic payments, or by a lump sum payment.
Are you eligible to claim spousal maintenance?
The test in relation to spousal maintenance arises under s 72 of the Family Law Act. Follow this flow chart to understand the test. .
Some case examples
In the case of Hall v Hall [2016] HCA 23, the High Court decided whether a wife was entitled to spousal maintenance from her husband. The wife had access to an annual payment of $150,000 under her late father’s will, however she argued that this was uncertain and subject to the discretion of her brother who was the executor of the estate. The High Court decided that she could access this money if she asked her brother and therefore had no need for spousal maintenance.
In Askew v Vargo [2019] FCCA 2221, the Court determined whether a wife should be granted spousal maintenance in circumstances where she had $114,000 in cash savings, $300,000 in a term deposit and $113,000 in a share portfolio. The Court found that while you don’t need to depleted capital or assets to qualify for spousal maintenance, in this case the wife had substantial assets to support herself meaning she was not entitled to spousal maintenance.
How can you to apply for spousal maintenance?
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Agreement between the parties
It is best to try to resolve issues surrounding spousal maintenance by agreement, without resorting to the court process. If an agreement is reached it can be formalized by way of a Binding Financial Agreement or Consent Orders. It is however important to know that spousal maintenance claims do have time limits.
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Court application
Can you claim spousal maintenance after separation or divorce?
Yes. The Application must be filed with the Court one year following divorce for married couples, or for de facto couples, two years following separation.
Can spousal maintenance be backdated?
The parties can privately agree to backdate spousal maintenance prior to court proceedings, but generally, the Court will not backdate a spousal maintenance order to start on an earlier date. Spousal maintenance can only commence on the day that an order is made.
Documentation
Where an agreement cannot be reached and an application to the Court has to be made, the person seeking spousal maintenance will need to file an Application, Affidavit and Financial Statement in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia.
How is spousal maintenance calculated?
If a spousal maintenance claim is successful, consideration will be given to how much financial supportis appropriate. The Court will look at the financial needs of the person in need of support and the financial capacity of person required to pay.
Seek personalised legal advice
Individual situations vary and no two cases are exactly alike – that is why it is important for anyone that may be undergoing separation to seek tailored legal advice from one of our highly-skilled family lawyers. New Way Lawyers offers a Facebook group called ‘Lunch with a Lawyer’, where we answer your questions for free each lunch on weekdays.
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