De Facto Relationship Lawyers

Unsure if the Family Court views your de facto relationship differently to a marriage?

The Family Court can resolve issues relating to property settlement, spousal maintenance, arrangements for children, child support and adult child maintenance following both marriage and de facto relationship breakdowns. However, there are times when the Family Court will not resolve financial disputes for some separated de facto couples.

Financial disputes following relationship breakdown of de facto couples can be heard in the Family Court in Western Australia if the Court is satisfied that:

• The de facto relationship lasted for at least 2 years; or
• If the de facto relationship was less than 2 years but there is a child under the age of 18 to the relationship and the parent caring for the child will experience serious injustice if the Court does not intervene; or 
• If the de facto relationship was less than 2 years but the person applying to the Family Court has made significant contributions so that serious injustice would be caused to that person if the Court does not intervene.

Experience in De facto Relationships

We have had extensive experience in assisting clients in de facto relationship breakdowns (including clients  who were in same-sex relationships) in resolving their disputes.

If you have been in a de facto relationship, we can assist you with:

• Advice on arrangements for children, property settlement, spousal maintenance, child support, and adult child maintenance.
• Acting on your behalf in seeking a resolution with the other party
• Representation in Court

If you were in a de facto relationship and have any questions regarding arrangements for children, property settlement, spousal maintenance, child support and adult child maintenance, call Doray Legal on (08) 9364 2588 or contact us for a consultation and enquire about our reduced fee for your first consultation.