While we find out tomorrow whether most Australians approve of same-sex marriage, a ‘yes’ outcome will have little impact on the family law entitlements of separated same-sex couples. ...
While we find out tomorrow whether most Australians approve of same-sex marriage, a ‘yes’ outcome will have little impact on the family law entitlements of separated same-sex couples.
In Thorne v Kennedy [2017] HCA 49, the High Court determined that two financial agreements were voidable due to an inequality of bargaining power and a lack of fair or reasonable alternatives available to one of the parties. If there is a significant power imbalance, parties to a relationship should
It can be a distressing experience for the victims of family violence to cross-examine, or be cross-examined by, their violent former partner in family law proceedings. The Family Law Amendment (Family Violence and Cross-examination of Parties) Bill 2017 purports to address this concern by allowing self-represented litigants to ask and
In a move to assist family law dispute resolution, Attorney-General George Brandis on behalf of the federal government has announced on Friday a $9.87 million funding package.
We are often contacted by parents and members of the community querying whether they should inform the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services over concerns about a child’s welfare.
Cooper Grace Ward’s family law team has achieved recognition in Doyle’s Guide Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers – Brisbane 2017.
The recently proposed changes to federal child care legislation and rebates acknowledge the increasing role grandparents have providing child care, often as a result of separation of parents. But what rights and responsibilities do grandparents have in relation to grandchildren who live with them?
I recently had the pleasure of attending the National Family Law Conference in Melbourne. One of the most interesting conference sessions I attended was about how, if at all, the definition of ‘property’ in family law matters is changing in the 21st century.
Due to the fact tracking equipment is now readily available, our day to day practice as family lawyers is changing. Read this article to find out more about how this may affect you.
Justine Woods, Partner in our family law team recently received an enquiry from a Grade 12 legal studies student at a rural high school requesting commentary from a legal professional regarding the current surrogacy laws. Justine of course, was more than happy to share her knowledge on the subject.
On 20 October 2015 the Queensland Court of Appeal awarded an ex-daughter-in-law a sum equivalent to 17.5% of the net value of a rural property owned by her former husband’s parents and a family farming enterprise owned by a trust controlled by the parents and ex-husband.
Recent cases indicate the courts are moving away from the long-standing principle that certain assets, including money spent, dissipated or wasted after separation but before final property settlement, can be added back to the property pool on a notional basis.
Cooper Grace Ward acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Fast, accurate and flexible entities including companies, self-managed superannuation funds and trusts.