Short answer – yes! Provided you meet certain criteria, detailed further below…

COVID created chaos at the start of the year, it is hard to believe that it is already September, and that we all still have access to toilet paper!   The initial lockdown and adaptations we have made have soon become the new norm and it is hard to think that we will have to go back to the hustle and bustle of ‘real’ life.   Back to peak-hour traffic, ferrying kids to this that and the other. Spending more time away from family and becoming more focused on work, deadlines and appointments. How did we ever do it before lockdown?

Separating can be an extremely difficult time for many, particularly where there are children involved. We are here to help you to negotiate arrangements for the ongoing care and support of your child or children. Let’s start at the…start. In this article you will find a breakdown of some of the legal terminology and key concepts around parenting. We will also break down a few myths!

The intimidating realisation that succumbed with the Premier’s announcement of another six-week hard lockdown seemed to ripple across the State. As many were out and about adjusting to the new normal of wearing masks and donning hand sanitiser upon entry into shops and supermarkets, the stark reality of our situation in Melbourne hit us with full force.

Sadly, family violence often increases after emergency and natural disasters. Based on these experiences, we can anticipate that incidences of family violence will also increase during the outbreak of Covid-19. This is due to isolation, stress, financial insecurity, housing insecurity and periods of quarantine together. However, family violence is never ok, no matter the circumstances or the situation.

The outbreak of Covid-19 has impacted people in varying ways. It is understandable that during this time people may feel worried, afraid, anxious and overwhelmed by the constantly changing alerts and media coverage about Covid-19.

As we have so sadly seen in the news recently, personal violence affects a large number of Australian families. A Family Violence Intervention Order can be sought in such situations with the intention of legally protecting a person from violence committed by a family member.

When a marriage or de facto relationship ends, often one party finds that they are not able to independently meet their day to day financial needs and living expenses. In such cases, the person in need may wish to apply for what is known as Spousal Maintenance.

One of the most stressful elements of ending a relationship is the process of dividing up your assets and debts. There are no hard and fast rules regarding property settlement so it is important that you seek advice from a qualified family lawyer to ensure you receive your fair share.

The question of child support or child maintenance is one that the Umbrella team deal with on a regular basis.  There’s no doubt that separation and divorce is tough, particularly where children are involved.  Understandably, the welfare of children is usually top of mind for most parents and that includes ensuring establishing financial arrangements that are fair for all parties.  The advice of professionals who specialise in collaborative law and child support arrangements is invaluable at this time.