Separation is not a topic you want to think about when you’re young and in love and starting your life with your significant other. However, it is a sad reality that sometimes things just don’t work out.
Hearing a term such as ‘property settlement’ or ‘parenting order’, you may think of your parents or older friends or relatives. However, just because you are young doesn’t mean a property settlement or parenting arrangements aren’t relevant to you and your situation.
Whether you were married or in a de facto relationship, having your separation finalised legally can be more important than ever to protect yourself in the future. Further, if you have children with your ex-partner, reaching agreement about the care of your child/ren early can mean years of co-operative parenting instead of litigious battle.
Getting a property settlement documented or your parenting agreement on paper can save you time and money down the track. It can also save you time and money in the short term, by taking care of aspects you may not have been aware of.
- Did you know you have to pay stamp duty on the transfer of property, unless you have consent orders?
- Did you know your ex-partner could be entitled to some of your superannuation?
- Did you know that without court orders, your ex-partner may change your parenting agreement without your consent?
If you are under 30 and have separated from your partner, you should consider the following:
- Did you own property together?
- If yes, is one of you keeping the property?
- Did you have joint accounts?
- Did you accrue superannuation during the period you were in your relationship?
- Did you have children together?
- Did you get married?
If you’re going through a separation and any of the above strike a cord with you you, then we recommend you seek further advice about your separation and what it means legally.
Here at Farrar Gesini Dunn we have a young team of specialist family lawyers who can advise on all of the above points plus more. We understand the importance of being able to move on with your life, especially after separation. Give us a call today.