Family Law

A steady approach to family law, with practical advice and real care.

Family law matters can be emotional, complex, and deeply personal. At Spero Law, we focus on clear guidance, realistic options, and a steady presence through what can be a challenging time.

Whether you are navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or dividing property, our role is to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Family law in Australia is governed by federal legislation and generally dealt with in federal courts. This means we can assist clients anywhere in Australia, regardless of location.

Family Law

How we can help

Family law issues are rarely confined to a single question. They often involve parenting, finances, housing, and future planning at the same time.

We help you understand:

  • your legal options
  • how the process usually works
  • what steps you can take now to protect your position
  • what is likely to happen next, both practically and legally

Where appropriate, we can also connect you with trusted external support services, such as counselling or financial advice.

We can assist with

Divorce and separation

Separation is a personal and practical step. Divorce is the legal process that formally ends a marriage. Not every separation requires immediate legal action, and not every divorce needs to be complicated.

We can assist with:

  • advice about separation, including separation under one roof
  • documenting separation dates and next steps
  • preparing and filing divorce applications, whether sole or joint
  • responding to divorce applications
  • explaining time limits that apply after divorce, including for property matters

In Australia, you must generally be separated for at least 12 months before applying for divorce. Divorce itself does not determine parenting arrangements or property settlements. Those matters are dealt with separately.

Parenting arrangements

Matters involving children are often the most emotionally difficult part of family law. We take a child-focused and practical approach, while protecting your position as a parent.

We can assist with:

  • parenting plans
  • consent orders to formalise agreements
  • disputes about time with children and parental responsibility
  • arrangements for schooling, medical decisions, travel, and passports
  • relocation matters
  • applications involving grandparents seeking time with grandchildren

Where possible, we aim to resolve parenting matters through agreement and clear structure. When court involvement is necessary, we provide firm and considered representation.

Property and financial settlements

Property settlement is about more than dividing assets. It is about future security and financial stability.

We can assist with:

  • property settlements following separation, including for married and de facto couples
  • superannuation splitting
  • division of assets, debts, and liabilities
  • negotiation and documentation of agreements
  • consent orders or financial agreements, depending on what is appropriate

We explain the process clearly and work with you to reach an outcome that is fair, workable, and properly documented.

Spousal maintenance

In some circumstances, one party may require financial support after separation, either short-term or longer-term.

We can advise on:

  • whether spousal maintenance may apply
  • the factors the court considers
  • negotiating and formalising agreements
  • court applications where required

Child support

Child support arrangements can be straightforward, but they can also become a source of ongoing stress if they do not reflect your circumstances.

We can assist with:

  • understanding child support assessments
  • advice on change of assessment applications
  • private child support agreements, including limited and binding agreements
  • practical guidance on structuring and documenting arrangements

Binding financial agreements

Binding financial agreements can be useful in the right circumstances, but they must be approached carefully.

We can advise on:

  • whether a binding financial agreement is suitable for your situation
  • agreements entered into before, during, or after a relationship
  • compliance and enforceability requirements
  • reviewing agreements prepared by other firms

What the process usually looks like

A clear, calm process, with no pressure.

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    We take the time to understand your situation, your priorities, and what you need right now. You will leave with clearer options and next steps.

  2. 2

    Clear advice and a plan forward

    We explain your options, likely pathways, timeframes, and costs. Where possible, we work toward agreement and practical structure.

  3. 3

    Negotiation or court, depending on what is needed

    We do not push clients into unnecessary disputes. If court involvement is necessary, we provide firm and considered representation.

  4. 4

    Finalising properly

    We help finalise agreements in a way that protects you long-term, including using consent orders or agreements where appropriate.

When to seek advice

You do not need to have everything figured out before speaking with a lawyer.

Early advice can be particularly important if:

  • you are separating and unsure of your next steps
  • children are involved and arrangements are unclear
  • you are concerned about finances or asset movement
  • you feel pressured or unsafe
  • you want to formalise an agreement properly

Getting advice early often prevents more complex and costly issues later.

Speak with us

If you are unsure where to start, we can help you make sense of your options. Contact Spero Law to arrange a confidential consultation and receive clear, practical guidance tailored to your situation.

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