Compassionate Family Lawyers Who Put You First
When you need experienced family lawyers in Adelaide, Matti Lamb & Associates is here to help. Family law issues can be difficult and emotional. Our Adelaide family lawyers provide clear, practical advice tailored to your situation. We guide you through separation, divorce, parenting disputes, and financial arrangements with care and expertise.
Our Family Law Services in Adelaide
We offer a full range of family law services to clients across Adelaide and South Australia:
Divorce Applications
You can apply for divorce if your marriage has irretrievably broken down. You don’t need your spouse’s consent but must have been separated for at least 12 months. Separation can happen even if you still live under the same roof. For couples with children under 18, the Court must be satisfied that proper care arrangements are in place.
Property Settlements
After separation or divorce, dividing assets, liabilities, and superannuation is crucial. Property settlements legally finalise your financial affairs and can be achieved via financial agreements, consent orders, or court proceedings. Our family lawyers help ensure you understand all financial implications before finalising any settlement.
Parenting Arrangements
Parenting arrangements focus on the best interests of your children. They cover living arrangements, time spent with each parent, and decisions about education and healthcare. We assist with parenting plans, consent orders, and court proceedings to resolve disputes when necessary.
Child Support and Spousal Maintenance
Child support provides for your child’s needs, while spousal maintenance offers financial support to a former partner. Spousal maintenance orders may be interim or final, and payments can be regular or lump sum. We assist clients in preparing strong applications and negotiating fair outcomes.
Binding Financial Agreements and Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Planning your financial future is important. Binding financial agreements (including pre-nuptial agreements) set out how assets and finances will be handled during or after your relationship. We draft and review these agreements to protect your interests.
De Facto Relationship Matters
De facto couples have many legal rights similar to married couples. Whether you need to prove your relationship status or seek property settlement and maintenance, our lawyers guide you through the process and help you protect your rights.
Urgent Recovery and International Travel Applications
If your child has been taken overseas without permission or you require urgent court intervention, we act swiftly to protect your parental rights and facilitate the child’s safe return.
Why Choose Matti Lamb & Associates as Your Family Lawyers in Adelaide?
- Deep knowledge of South Australian family law.
- Clear, practical advice tailored to you.
- Strong commitment to dispute resolution outside court.
- Vigorous representation when court action is necessary.
Contact Our Family Lawyers in Adelaide
If you need trusted family lawyers in Adelaide who will listen, advise, and act in your best interests, contact Matti Lamb & Associates today.
Suite 4, Level 1, 202 Belair Road, Hawthorn SA 5062
Phone: 08 8155 5322
Email: [email protected]
Family Law FAQs
How long does it take to get a divorce in Adelaide?
Most divorces take about 3 to 4 months from filing to finalisation, depending on Court schedules and whether the application is joint or sole.
Do both partners need to agree to divorce?
No, one party can apply without the other’s consent if you have been separated for at least 12 months.
Can we be separated if still living together?
Yes, this is called “separation under one roof.” You’ll need to provide evidence that the relationship has ended despite living at the same address.
What is included in property settlements?
Property settlements cover division of assets, debts, and superannuation between separating partners or spouses.
How soon after divorce must I apply for property settlement or spousal maintenance?
You have 12 months from when your divorce order is finalised to start these proceedings.
What if we can’t agree on parenting arrangements?
We can help negotiate agreements or represent you in court to ensure the best interests of the child are met.
Are binding financial agreements legally enforceable?
Yes, if properly drafted and executed, binding financial agreements (including pre-nuptial agreements) are legally binding.
Can de facto couples access the same family law rights as married couples?
Yes, de facto couples have similar rights under family law, including property and maintenance claims.
What is spousal maintenance and who is eligible?
Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one partner to another after separation or divorce. Eligibility depends on factors like the recipient’s ability to support themselves and the payer’s capacity to pay.
How is parenting time decided when parents separate?
Parenting time is decided based on the best interests of the child, with a presumption towards shared parental responsibility unless there are safety concerns.
Can I change parenting arrangements after they have been set?
Yes, parenting arrangements can be modified if circumstances change, but you may need to apply to the Court to do so.
What happens if my spouse hides assets during property settlement?
If you suspect asset concealment, our lawyers can help investigate and take appropriate legal action to ensure a fair settlement.
Is mediation required before going to Court in family law matters?
Courts often encourage or require mediation or alternative dispute resolution before proceeding to trial, to try to resolve issues amicably.
How much does it cost to hire a family lawyer in Adelaide?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the matter. We provide transparent fee estimates and work efficiently to minimise costs where possible.
Can I get legal aid for family law matters?
Legal aid eligibility depends on financial circumstances and the type of family law matter. We can help you understand if you qualify.
What is a consent order?
A consent order is a legally binding agreement approved by the Court, often used to formalise parenting arrangements or property settlements without a trial.