The court considers several factors: The length of time each partner owned the pet Who provided care and financial support Who is best able to care for the pet in future The animal’s best interests Courts do not allow pets to be used as bargaining tools in separation or property disputes. Instead, they prioritise welfare…
A stepchild is someone who is not the biological child of their parent’s spouse but is treated as a child within that family because of the marriage or de facto relationship. In Victoria, stepchildren do not automatically receive the same inheritance rights as biological children from a stepparent. A stepparent can choose to exclude a…
In Australia, the legal system is divided into two main areas: civil law and criminal law. Each area has a different purpose, process, and outcome. Civil law deals with disputes between private individuals or organisations. It focuses on compensating a person or organisation for loss or harm. These cases usually involve financial payments. Common examples…
Receiving a subpoena can be stressful. This is especially true if you are unsure what it means or what you need to do next. If you or a loved one has received a subpoena, this guide explains what it is, what it requires, and what steps you should take next. What is a Subpoena? A…
If you have heard the term estate planning, you may wonder what it involves and whether it applies to you. Estate planning gives you and your family peace of mind if something happens to you. It is an important step for every adult. Here is everything you need to know about estate planning, including what…
Relationship breakdowns can be stressful, especially when children are involved. Parents must consider custody arrangements and child support payments. Understanding how child support is calculated helps parents ensure they pay a fair and reasonable amount. This guide explains how child support works in Australia and how assessments are made. What is Child Support? When parents…
If you have recently experienced the breakdown of a de facto relationship, you may be unsure about your legal rights. You may also be in a de facto relationship and want to understand how the law applies to you. Although de facto couples are not married, the law treats separation in a similar way to…
The death of a loved one is often a difficult time that involves major decisions. In some cases, a person may believe they have been unfairly left out of a loved one’s will or treated unjustly by the deceased (the Testator). In other cases, a person may question whether the will is valid. Keep reading…
The Melbourne real estate market has shifted in favour of buyers. Stock levels sit above average, and vendors are accepting higher discounts. This is good news for anyone planning to buy a home in Melbourne or surrounding suburbs. However, it also means more people will need the services of a conveyancer. Keep reading to learn…
According to the most recent statistics, 49,510 divorces were granted in Australia in 2020. This represents an increase of 1.9%. If you are starting a divorce, you may be wondering whether you need a divorce lawyer. Not everyone uses a lawyer during divorce, but legal advice is strongly recommended. Here are three main reasons to…