Family Law Costs & FAQs

The questions you’re too afraid to ask out loud. Answered honestly, before you spend a dollar.

You shouldn’t need a law degree to understand your own situation.

Most people researching family law online get one of two things: generic legal jargon that doesn’t actually answer their question, or fear-driven content designed to scare them into calling someone.

We’d rather just tell you the truth. Below are real answers to the questions our clients actually ask, before they’ve decided to do anything, before they’ve spoken to anyone, and often at midnight when they can’t sleep.

If you can’t find your question here, ask us directly. It’s free.

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Costs & Funding

Is the first appointment really free, and what happens in it?	Read FAQ
Will I have to pay my ex’s legal fees too?	Read FAQ
Fixed fee vs hourly rate, what’s the difference and which is better?	Read FAQ
Can I get help if I have no access to money right now?	Read FAQ
What is JustFund and how does legal funding actually work?	Read FAQ
How much does a family lawyer cost in Melbourne?	Read FAQ

Property & Finances

How long does a property settlement usually take?	Read FAQ
Do I lose half my business if we separate?	Read FAQ
What if my ex is self-employed and I think they’re hiding income?	Read FAQ
How is superannuation split during separation?	Read FAQ
What’s actually counted as an asset in a property settlement?	Read FAQ

Children & Parenting

What happens if my ex breaches our parenting agreement?	Read FAQ
Can I take my children interstate or overseas without my ex’s permission?	Read FAQ
What do I do in the first 48 hours after separating if kids are involved?	Read FAQ
Can my ex stop me from seeing my kids?	Read FAQ
What’s the difference between a parenting plan and consent orders?	Read FAQ

Divorce & Separation

What’s the very first thing I should do after deciding to separate?	Read FAQ
Can we be separated and still live in the same house?	Read FAQ
Do I need my spouse’s agreement to get divorced?	Read FAQ
How long do we need to be separated before applying for divorce?	Read FAQ

Family Violence & Intervention Orders

How do I protect myself if I think my ex is escalating?	Read FAQ
What counts as family violence under Australian law?	Read FAQ
Does an IVO affect my time with my children?	Read FAQ
I’ve just been served with an Intervention Order, what happens now?	Read FAQ

Business Owners

What should I be doing now to protect my business before separation happens?	Read FAQ
Can I be forced to sell my business in a divorce?	Read FAQ
How is my business valued in a property settlement?	Read FAQ

Book a free appointment with Melanie.

Get clear advice before you make decisions you can’t undo.

(03) 9098 8749