INSERT Video – https://youtu.be/pwPNayePckQ “What to expect when attending a Court Hearing” (4 minutes)
INSERT Download – How your Family Law case will be managed in the Court (fcfcoa.gov.au)
INSERT Video – Record Keeping
Relevant Evidence
What is Relevant Evidence?
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In family law matters, relevant evidence in a parenting matter would be information that directly relates to the best interests of the child.
This may include a range of evidence such as the child’s current and past living arrangements, the emotional and psychological impact of these arrangements, and any special needs the child might have.
Additionally, evidence about each parent’s capacity to provide for the child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs, their involvement in the child’s life, and their ability to facilitate a relationship between the child and the other parent is also crucial.
Importance of legal advice
Before you decide to represent yourself in court, it’s important to get legal advice. A lawyer understands how the legal system works and can help you understand your rights and your responsibilities.
Lawyers:
If you can’t afford a lawyer, there are free or low-cost legal services that might be able to help.
When considering self-representation, ask yourself if you:
- Have the time and resources to prepare your case
- Possess the necessary legal skills
- Possess the necessary interpersonal skills, such as remaining calm under pressure.
- Can confidently speak to the judge or registrar
Even if you choose not to hire a lawyer, you should still seek legal advice about your case. Free or low-cost legal assistance might be available to you.
Resources
Helping Victorians with their legal issues | Victoria Legal Aid
Applying for Legal Aid – Legal Services Commission of SA (lsc.sa.gov.au)
Home – Legal Aid Tasmania – Tasmania Legal Aid
CLCs Australia – Community Legal Centres Australia
Rights and Responsabilities
Insert Video: Rights and Responsabilities
The “Cost” of Family Court
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Parents often say to me they can’t afford family court. Arguably, no one can. It’s a very expensive process that either costs you individually or the taxpayer if you’re receiving legal aid. Ultimately, it takes away from any accrued wealth that you have. The costs will vary and you’d need to receive a quote from a solicitor. Be sure to get a quote for all the stages, not just the initial application.
However, the cost is so much more than financial.
You have to consider the emotional cost of having significant and prolonged stress levels. Stress is the single most impactful factor you will face during this time. It affects your sleep, hormones and overall health.
Then there is the time it will take. Not only from start to finish but all the hours you will spend thinking about your case, working on your case and preparing for it. It takes time away from things you’d otherwise enjoy, and often time away from your children.
Of course, it doesn’t mean it isn’t worth all those sacrifices. It likely is. But there is more than finances to consider in family court.