Family Lawyers in Camden
Our Family Law Services in Camden
Parenting
Property Settlement
Estate Planning
Maintenance
Resolving Family Matters Without Going to Court
The Court expects separating couples to make every effort to resolve their disputes before starting court proceedings, where it is safe to do so. Much of our family law work is about reaching an agreement that lasts.
- Negotiation. Parenting disputes can often be settled through negotiation before any mediation is needed.
- Mediation. For parenting disputes, family dispute resolution is required in most cases before a court application. We prepare you, help you arrange it to avoid lengthy delays, and can attend with you.
- Making it binding. An agreement can be made legally binding with consent orders or a financial agreement, which we draft for you.
- Court, when needed. If agreement isn’t possible, we prepare and present your case firmly.
Jillaine Duve, who heads our family law team, is a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. Jillaine and Bill McGookin are both members of the Australian Institute of Family Law Arbitrators and Mediators.
Why Camden Families Choose Caldwell Martin Cox
Local to Camden
Our Camden office is at 28 Hill Street. Partner Sarah Searle, who was born and raised in Camden, principally practises in family law and estates.
An Accredited Specialist in Family Law
Managing Partner Bill McGookin became a Law Society Accredited Specialist in Family Law in 1997. Away from the office he is a member of the Rotary Club of Camden.
Led by Jillaine Duve
Jillaine Duve heads our family law team. A lawyer since 1998 and a former Crown Prosecutor, she has practised in family law since 2004 and regularly appears in court at Parramatta, Wollongong and Sydney.
A Choice of Male and Female Solicitors
You can choose a male or female solicitor from our family law team, all with solid family law experience and excellent reputations.
Advice From the First Meeting
Our first family law consultation lasts about an hour and is charged at a reduced rate. You leave with legal advice and strategies for your situation, not just an overview of the system.
Family Law Questions from Camden Clients
Where is your Camden office?
28 Hill Street, Camden NSW 2570. We are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm, and also have offices in Narellan, Gregory Hills and Picton. Call 02 4651 4800.
How soon after separating can I apply for a divorce?
Once you have been separated for at least 12 months. If you lived under the same roof for part of that time you will need affidavit evidence, and if there are children under 18 the Court must be satisfied with their arrangements.
Is there a deadline for property settlement?
Yes. Married couples must apply within 12 months of their divorce becoming final. De facto couples must apply within two years of the relationship breaking down. After that, the Court’s permission is needed.
What is a consent order?
A court order made with the agreement of both parties. It can cover parenting arrangements, property or both, and turns your agreement into a legally binding document.
Is mediation compulsory for parenting disputes?
What happens to our home if one of us dies before property settlement?
If the home is held as joint tenants, the surviving owner automatically receives the whole property. It can be changed to tenants in common without your former partner’s signature, which is one reason to review your estate planning soon after separating.
Is there a time limit for child support?
The time limits for property orders don’t apply to child support and child maintenance. It is still best to apply for a child support assessment as soon after separating as you can.
Can we separate and still live in the same house?
Yes. Couples often stay under one roof after separating, usually for financial reasons. That time can count towards the 12 months needed for a divorce, but you will need to file affidavit evidence explaining the separation.
Do I have to go to court to get divorced?
You won’t need to attend the Court registry in person, and in many cases you don’t need to attend the divorce hearing at all. You must attend in some situations, such as when your spouse opposes the application.
What if we were in a de facto relationship?
De facto couples, including same sex couples, can seek property orders and spousal maintenance under the Family Law Act. Applications for property orders must be made within two years of the relationship breaking down.
How much does the first consultation cost?
Our first family law consultation is charged at a reduced rate and lasts about an hour. Call 02 4651 4800 for the current fee or to make an appointment.