Family Lawyer Sunshine Coast

There’s no fixed 50/50 rule. The court looks at what you both own and owe, the contributions each of you made, and your future needs, then works out what’s just and equitable. We’ll give you a realistic range for your situation rather than a rule of thumb.

A divorce is the legal end of the marriage and is usually straightforward once you’ve been separated for 12 months. Sorting out parenting and property is separate, and how long that takes depends on how quickly agreement can be reached.

You can apply yourself, but consent orders have to be drafted so the court will approve them and so they actually protect you later. Getting them wrong can leave the agreement open to challenge. We prepare consent orders as a fixed fee.

The focus is on what’s in the best interests of the children. Most parenting arrangements are worked out by agreement rather than in court. We can help you reach a workable arrangement and put it in a form that sticks.

Usually, yes. Most family law matters settle through negotiation or mediation. Court is generally a last resort, and the roadmap we give you is built around resolving things without it wherever possible.

Yes. If you were married, you generally have 12 months from the date your divorce takes effect to start property proceedings. If you were in a de facto relationship, you generally have 2 years from the date you separated. After that you need the court’s permission, which isn’t guaranteed, so get advice early.

Yes. In Queensland, de facto couples have much the same rights as married couples for property and parenting matters under the Family Law Act. Usually you need to have lived together for at least 2 years, or have a child together, or meet other criteria. We can tell you quickly whether your relationship qualifies.

For parenting matters, you generally have to attempt family dispute resolution (a form of mediation) before applying to court, unless an exception applies, such as family violence or urgency. For property matters, you’re expected to make genuine attempts to resolve things first, often including mediation.

Yes. You can apply for a divorce on your own once you’ve been separated for at least 12 months. You don’t need your former partner’s agreement, but they must be served with the application. If you have children under 18, the court needs to be satisfied proper arrangements are in place for them.

Super is treated as property and is part of the pool, even though you usually can’t access it as cash. It can be split between you by agreement or court order. Because super splits, tax and business or trust interests often interact, our lawyers work with our accountants on these matters.

If you’re in immediate danger, call 000. Tell us at first contact if there are safety concerns, a risk a child may be moved, or assets are being sold or hidden, and we’ll prioritise your matter rather than wait for an appointment. Since June 2025, the court must also consider the economic effects of family violence in property settlements.

Yes. Greenhalgh Pickard has offices in Kawana (Minyama), Buderim, Caloundra and Coolum Beach, and we also meet clients by phone or video. Call (07) 5444 1022 or use the form below to book.