Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Family Focus Legal: Empower your family with compassionate legal expertise ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Understanding Commercial Leases in the Camden Market](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-commercial-leases-in-the-camden-market/): A commercial lease in Camden is a binding multi-year contract that commits your business to far more than just monthly rent. It is one of the most significant legal commitments your business will make, and the standard form documents landlords use are written to protect the landlord, not you. The single most important step any tenant can take is to have a solicitor review the lease before signing, not after. - [A Complete 10-Point Legal Compliance Guide For Businesses](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/a-complete-10-point-legal-compliance-guide-for-businesses/): Most small businesses are legally compliant in some areas and exposed in others, and the gap usually shows up only when something goes wrong. A 10-point legal health check tests whether your business structure, employment contracts, Fair Work compliance, work health and safety duties, privacy obligations, tax registrations, insurance, intellectual property, commercial lease, and succession plan are all in order under current 2026 NSW and federal law. - [10 Things You Must Do Before Signing a Contract of Sale](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/10-things-you-must-do-before-signing-a-contract-of-sale/): The moment you sign a Contract of Sale in New South Wales, the purchase becomes legally binding. - [The 2026 Business Succession Planning Guide for Camden Businesses](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/the-2026-business-succession-planning-guide-for-camden-businesses/): Running a successful business in Camden takes years of hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. But have you thought about what happens to your business when you are ready to step back? - [Start 2026 with Confidence Using a New Year Legal Health Check](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/start-2026-with-confidence-using-a-new-year-legal-health-check/): Conducting a legal health check at the start of 2026 ensures your family and business remain compliant with significant legislative changes from the past year. By reviewing your estate plan, business wage systems, and property titles now, you can prevent costly penalties and secure your assets for the year ahead. - [Mediation or Court? A Family Law Guide for Camden Families in 2026](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/mediation-or-court-a-family-law-guide-for-camden-families-in-2026/): If you are facing family separation in the Macarthur region, one of the first questions you will need to answer is whether to try mediation or go to court. - [5 Key Family Law Changes in 2026 You Need to Know About](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/5-key-family-law-changes-in-2026-you-need-to-know-about/): If this topic resonates with you, you are likely navigating one of the most challenging transitions of your life. Perhaps you are worried about protecting yourself from a controlling partner or trying to understand how new superannuation rules affect your property settlement. But whatever brought you here, you are taking an important step by staying informed.  As we enter 2026, take time to fully understand the changes that matter most for your situation. - [A Camden Parent’s Guide to the New Child Contact Centre Standards](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/a-camden-parents-guide-to-the-new-child-contact-centre-standards/): Children's contact centres are neutral, child-focused venues where separated parents can hand over children for time with the other parent, or where supervised contact visits can take place. Australia is in the middle of major reforms to how these services are regulated, with new safety frameworks rolling out in 2025 and a national accreditation scheme on track to follow. For Camden parents navigating separation, this guide explains what the new framework means, what to look for in a service, and how supervised contact fits with your parenting orders. - [Initial Consultation Checklist for Property Settlement Matters](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/initial-consultation-checklist-for-property-settlement-matters/): Attending your first consultation with a solicitor about property settlement can feel overwhelming. For many people, this appointment happens during a difficult period following separation or divorce. You may be dealing with emotional stress, financial uncertainty, and major life changes all at once. - [Your Legal Rights and Protections for De Facto Relationships in NSW](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/your-legal-rights-and-protections-for-de-facto-relationships-in-nsw/): If you are living with your partner in New South Wales but are not married, you are likely in what the law recognises as a de facto relationship. Understanding your legal rights is crucial, whether you are starting your journey, facing the reality of separation, or planning for the future. Many people mistakenly believe de facto partners have fewer protections than married couples. In reality, Australian law provides substantial rights and obligations affecting your property, finances, and children. This guide provides straight, practical information to help you make informed decisions. - [A Legal Guide to Estate Planning for Blended Families in NSW](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/a-legal-guide-to-estate-planning-for-blended-families-in-nsw/): When some couples marry, both may bring children from previous relationships into their new family. A primary concern for these couples across NSW is how to structure an estate plan that is fair to everyone. They want to ensure all their children are financially protected, but the legal pathway is not always clear. - [A Legal Checklist for Property Vendors in New South Wales](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/a-legal-checklist-for-property-vendors-in-new-south-wales/): Spring has arrived in Camden, bringing with it the peak property selling season. As our region’s growth continues with developments in Oran Park, Gregory Hills, and established areas like Camden South and Narellan, spring presents the optimal window for vendors looking to maximise their sale price. - [Why Is Formalising Financial Separation Important?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/why-is-formalising-financial-separation-important/): Formalising your financial separation through a legally recognised property settlement provides clarity, certainty, and long-term protection. At Family Focus Legal, we regularly assist individuals and couples in navigating this process with confidence and care. - [Understanding Contravention Applications in Family Law Matters](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-contravention-applications-in-family-law-matters/): When a Court makes parenting orders or financial orders, those orders are legally binding on the parties involved. Whether the orders were made by agreement or after a hearing, each person must follow them unless a lawful and reasonable excuse applies. When one party believes the other has not complied, they may choose to file what is known as a Contravention Application with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA). - [What Happens If You Refuse Drug Testing in Family Court?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-happens-if-you-refuse-drug-testing-in-family-court/): A common question that arises is: What happens if a parent refuses to participate in court-ordered drug testing? - [Notice to Produce vs Subpoena: What’s the Difference?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/notice-to-produce-vs-subpoena-whats-the-difference/): In New South Wales (NSW) legal proceedings, it’s often necessary to access documents or evidence held by other individuals or organisations. Two of the most common legal tools used to obtain this information are the Notice to Produce and the Subpoena. - [Do I Need a Lawyer for a Family Law Mediation?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-a-family-law-mediation/): When a relationship breaks down, navigating family disputes can be one of the most stressful and emotional experiences in life — especially when children are involved. In Australia, family law mediation (also known as Family Dispute Resolution or FDR) is often the first step toward resolving these issues without going to court. - [Charitable Donations in Your Will: A Guide for NSW Families](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/charitable-donations-in-your-will-a-guide-for-nsw-families/): Learn how to leave a gift to charity in your Will. Family Focus Legal’s estate planning lawyers in NSW guide you through the process with fixed-fee services. - [Debunking Common Estate Planning Myths](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/debunking-common-estate-planning-myths/): When it comes to estate planning, many people put it off because they believe it isn’t necessary for them or is something that they only need to think about later in life. Misconceptions about wills, powers of attorney, enduring guardianship, and estate planning in general, often prevent people from getting the documents they need in place. - [What Is a Superannuation Binding Death Benefit Nomination and Why Do You Need One?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-is-a-superannuation-binding-death-benefit-nomination-and-why-do-you-need-one/): When most people plan for the future, they focus on creating a valid will. However, one significant asset often overlooked is superannuation and how this asset is dealt with when they pass away. - [What to Do if the Father of Your Child Refuses to Acknowledge Paternity](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-to-do-if-the-father-of-your-child-refuses-to-acknowledge-paternity/): When a father refuses to acknowledge that he is the biological parent or paternity of a child, it can be an incredibly stressful and emotional situation. For many mothers, this refusal is often linked to the father attempting to avoid his legal obligations, particularly around child support. - [The Process for Dividing Superannuation in a Separation](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/the-process-for-dividing-superannuation-in-a-separation/): When a relationship ends, untangling your shared life often feels overwhelming. Beyond the emotional stress, you're faced with complex financial decisions. One of the most significant – and often overlooked – assets is superannuation. For many Australians, their 'super' is their largest asset after the family home. Understanding how it's treated in a property settlement is vital for safeguarding your financial future. - [The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Family Law & Your Rights](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/the-ultimate-guide-to-understanding-family-law-your-rights/): Feeling overwhelmed by a family legal issue? You're not alone. The first and most crucial step is understanding your rights and what options are available to you. - [Can an Executor Delay Administering an Estate?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/can-an-executor-delay-administering-an-estate/): When someone passes away, the person they have nominated in their Will as the Executor is responsible for carrying out their final wishes and administering their Estate. This role carries serious legal responsibilities, including a duty to act in a timely and efficient manner, and always in the best interests of the beneficiaries. - [Economic and Financial Abuse in Family Law – Understanding Your Rights](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/economic-and-financial-abuse-in-family-law-understanding-your-rights/): Economic and financial abuse is a form of family violence that is now being given stronger recognition under Australian law. In June 2025, amendments to the Family Law Act came into effect, specifically including economic and financial abuse in the legal definition of Family Violence. This change acknowledges the significant and lasting impact that financial control and manipulation can have on individuals and families. - [Is There a Duty of Disclosure in Parenting Proceedings?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/duty-of-disclosure-parenting-proceedings/): In family law parenting proceedings, a critical requirement for all parties involved is the duty of disclosure. This duty ensures that both parents provide all relevant information and documentation that may assist in determining what is in the best interests of the child. - [What Happens When a Will Is Successfully Contested?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-happens-when-a-will-is-successfully-contested/): The loss of a loved one brings a wave of grief. Amidst this sorrow, the last thing any family needs is an unexpected legal battle over inheritance. Unfortunately, when disagreements erupt over a will or asset division, you may face a contested estate—an emotionally draining, time-consuming, and costly situation. - [Understanding the Conveyancing Process Step by Step](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-the-conveyancing-process-step-by-step/): In simple terms, conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. It’s the critical background work that ensures a buyer gets a clean, clear title to their new home, and the seller gets paid correctly. - [How Family Violence Is Now Considered in Property Settlement Proceedings](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/how-family-violence-is-now-considered-in-property-settlement-proceedings/): In the past, family violence was not a major consideration in property settlement proceedings under Australian family law. However, this has changed. With a growing awareness of the serious and long-lasting financial impacts of family violence, significant legal reforms have been introduced to better support victims during property division matters. - [What Is a Subpoena and How Can It Help in Family Law Parenting or Property Matters?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-is-a-subpoena-and-how-can-it-help-in-family-law-parenting-or-property-matters/): When navigating family law disputes—whether regarding parenting arrangements or property settlements—gathering clear, reliable, and admissible evidence is essential. One powerful legal mechanism available to help secure this evidence is a subpoena. - [Co-Parenting Tips for High-Conflict Parenting Arrangements](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/co-parenting-tips-for-high-conflict-parenting-arrangements/): Navigating parenting after separation can be difficult—but when you’re in a high-conflict co-parenting situation, it can feel completely overwhelming. Frequent disagreements, poor communication, or unresolved emotional issues can make it challenging to focus on what really matters: the well-being of your children. - [What Is the Purpose of Mediation in Family Law?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-is-the-purpose-of-mediation-in-family-law/): Mediation plays a vital role in resolving family law disputes in Australia. Whether you are in the early stages of separation or already involved in proceedings in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA), mediation is a key tool for reaching agreements without the need for lengthy and costly litigation. - [Understanding the Critical Incident List in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-the-critical-incident-list-in-the-federal-circuit-and-family-court-of-australia/): The Critical Incident List is a specialised pathway within the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) designed to provide a rapid response to urgent family law matters involving high-risk and traumatic events. This initiative ensures that vulnerable children and families receive immediate legal intervention and protection when time is of the essence. - [What Happens if Someone Passes Away Without a Will?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-happens-if-someone-passes-away-without-a-will/): Losing a loved one is never easy, and handling their estate can be overwhelming—especially if they did not leave a Will. In such cases, the law dictates how their assets will be distributed through a process known as intestate succession. Understanding what happens when someone dies without a Will can help families navigate this challenging time and avoid unnecessary complications. - [Addressing Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Parenting Matters: Protecting Children’s Best Interests](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/addressing-drug-and-alcohol-abuse-in-parenting-matters-protecting-childrens-best-interests/): In parenting disputes, the safety and well-being of children are the top priority. Concerns about drug and alcohol abuse can significantly impact child custody arrangements, as the Family Court takes these issues seriously when determining the best interests of the child. Understanding how substance abuse is assessed and managed in parenting matters can help ensure children remain safe and protected. - [The 4-Step Process to Reaching a Property Settlement with Your Former Partner](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/the-4-step-process-to-reaching-a-property-settlement-with-your-former-partner/): When going through a separation, dividing assets, liabilities, and superannuation can feel overwhelming. However, understanding the four-step process the Family Court follows can help you navigate the property settlement process with confidence. This structured approach ensures a 'just and equitable' division of property, making negotiations smoother and more predictable. - [How Is Child Support Assessed in NSW?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/how-is-child-support-assessed-in-nsw/): Child support plays a vital role in ensuring that children’s financial needs are met following a separation or divorce. In New South Wales (NSW), the child support system aims to provide a fair and consistent approach, ensuring both parents contribute to their children’s upbringing. Understanding how child support is assessed is crucial for parents navigating this process. This article outlines the key factors involved in determining child support obligations. - [What Assets Are Included in the Matrimonial Asset Pool?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/what-assets-are-included-in-the-matrimonial-asset-pool/): Understanding which assets must be disclosed and potentially divided is crucial for anyone navigating a property settlement. Below is a comprehensive guide to what is typically included in the matrimonial asset pool. However, it is essential to seek legal advice for your specific situation, as the laws surrounding property settlement are complex and subject to change. - [Am I Required to Attend Mediation Before I Can Commence Court Proceedings in Australia?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/am-i-required-to-attend-mediation-before-i-can-commence-court-proceedings-in-australia/): When dealing with family law disputes, many people wonder whether they must attend mediation before initiating court proceedings. In Australia, the Family Law Act 1975 requires parties to make a genuine effort to resolve disputes through family dispute resolution (FDR) before filing an application in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA). This requirement aims to encourage negotiations, reduce costs, and streamline the resolution process. - [Am I in a De Facto Relationship for Family Law Purposes?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/am-i-in-a-de-facto-relationship-for-family-law-purposes/): Understanding your legal rights in a de facto relationship is crucial, especially when it comes to family law matters such as property settlements and financial claims. If you are separating from your partner, it is essential to determine whether you qualify as being in a de facto relationship under Australian law. - [Understanding the National Contravention List in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-the-national-contravention-list-in-the-federal-circuit-and-family-court-of-australia/): The National Contravention List is a specialized court process within the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) designed to address breaches (contraventions) of parenting orders. This streamlined process enables an application to be filed against a parent who fails to comply with existing court-ordered parenting arrangements. - [Pets as Companion Animals in Family Law: Key Amendments](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/pets-as-companion-animals-in-family-law-key-amendments/): The inclusion of companion animals in family law proceedings marks a significant step forward in recognizing the emotional ties between people and their pets. These amendments aim to create fair outcomes and ensure the well-being of both pets and their owners in times of dispute. Reach out to our experienced solicitors for support tailored to your unique situation. - [Can I Change My Child’s Name After Separation or Divorce?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/can-i-change-my-childs-name-after-separation-or-divorce/): A common question parents ask after separation or divorce is whether they can change their child’s name. While it is possible, the process involves several legal and practical considerations, including whether both parents agree to the name change and whether it aligns with the child’s best interests. - [Understanding Spousal Maintenance](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/understanding-spousal-maintenance/): Spousal maintenance is a critical aspect of family law that comes into play following the breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship. It refers to the financial support provided by one party to their former spouse or partner when the latter is unable to meet their living expenses through their own income or assets. - [Family Law Amendment Bill 2024: Key Reforms and Impacts](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/family-law-amendment-bill-2024-key-reforms-and-impacts/): The Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 represents a landmark development in Australian family law, emphasizing protections for victims of family and domestic violence. Passed by the House of Representatives in August 2024 and the Senate on 29 November 2024, these reforms acknowledge the profound economic and emotional impacts of family violence. Set to take effect on 29 May 2025, the amendments introduce crucial changes to ensure justice and fairness in family law proceedings. - [Superannuation and Estate Planning: Key Considerations for Australians](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/superannuation-and-estate-planning-key-considerations-for-australians/): Superannuation is a critical financial asset for Australians, especially when planning for retirement. Yet, many are unaware that superannuation operates separately from their estate and is not automatically governed by their Will. Understanding how superannuation is managed after you pass away is essential for ensuring your intentions are met. - [Renouncing as Executor of a Will: What You Need to Know](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/renouncing-as-executor-of-a-will-what-you-need-to-know/): Being appointed as an executor in a will is a significant responsibility. Executors are entrusted with managing and distributing the estate of the deceased, ensuring all legal and financial matters are handled properly. But what happens if you do not wish to take on this role? The process of stepping down is called renouncing as executor, and this guide explains what it involves and what you need to consider. - [The Role of an Independent Children’s Lawyer in Family Law Cases](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/the-role-of-an-independent-childrens-lawyer-in-family-law-cases/): An Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL) plays a critical role in family law cases involving parenting disputes. Unlike lawyers representing parents, the ICL focuses solely on the best interests of the children, ensuring their voice is heard in court while maintaining objectivity and independence. - [Stamp Duty Exemptions for Property Transfers Under Consent Orders or Binding Financial Agreements](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/stamp-duty-exemptions-for-property-transfers-under-consent-orders-or-binding-financial-agreements/): Learn about stamp duty exemptions for property transfers under consent orders or binding financial agreements in Australia. Discover how Family Focus Legal can guide you through the process and save you money. - [Consent Orders or Parenting Plan to Finalise Parenting Arrangements?](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/consent-orders-or-parenting-plan-to-finalise-parenting-arrangements/): When parents separate, it's essential to understand the options available for finalising and formalising parenting arrangements. Choosing the right option can help create stability for the children while ensuring legal and practical clarity between parents. Below, we outline the main approaches: Parenting Plans and Consent Orders. ## Pages - [FAQ’s](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/faqs/): Family Focus Legal provides a wide range of legal services including family law, wills and estates, property law, and conveyancing. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering personalised and effective legal solutions. - [Schedule a Chat](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/schedule-a-chat/): Schedule a Chat - [Our Team](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/about/our-team/): Our caring and dedicated team is committed to providing the support and guidance you need to overcome your legal challenges. Get to know the professionals who will be by your side every step of the way. - [Get Started](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/online-services/get-started/): To begin the document preparation process, please share the required details and instructions, including document type and any preferences. Following that, kindly make the necessary payment using the specified method and amount. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to ask. - [Contact](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/contact/): Get in touch with our compassionate team, and let's discuss how we can support you and your family. - [Online Services](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/online-services/): We have three product options to fulfil your legal requirements for: Will, Power of Attorney (POA), or Enduring Guardian (EG). Explore the packages below and select the one that best suits your needs. - [Testimonials](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/testimonials/): I have always found Ms Gates to be a fierce advocate for her clients whilst also being forthright in ensuring that her clients comply with their obligations of full and true disclosure to the other party and the Court. - [News](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/news/) - [Fees](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/fees/): At Family Focus Legal we are incredibly conscious of our client’s legal fees and believe in an honest and open approach where fees are concerned. We are very mindful and understand that any money spent on legal fees is your hard earned money. We work towards efficient and conservative resolutions so that you can focus on your future. - [About](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/about/): We understand that choosing a Lawyer to look after yourself and your family’s best interests is an incredibly important decision. - [Privacy Policy](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/privacy-policy/): To and stored by Google on servers located outside Australia. Google is based in the United States of America (USA). Should you wish to contact Google, you can find contact details on Google's Contact us page. - [Home](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/): Family law services at your fingertips. Explore our comprehensive family law services online, tailored to meet your legal needs with the utmost convenience and efficiency. ## Services - [First Home Buyers](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/conveyancing/first-home-buyers/): If you’re a first home buyer in New South Wales, you may be entitled to government first home buyer grants or concessions. There are a range of different grants and concessions available to first home buyers, with varying eligibility criteria. - [Purchasing Property](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/conveyancing/purchasing-property/): For the majority of people, purchasing a property is one of the most important financial transactions you will ever make and at Family Focus Legal we aim to make it as simple and stress free as we possibly can. - [Selling Property](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/conveyancing/selling-property/): When selling your property, there is not much that you are required to do, other than list your property with a Real Estate Agent and instruct Family Focus Legal to act on your behalf. - [Stamp Duty Exemptions](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/conveyancing/stamp-duty-exemptions/): Aside from the First Home Buyer exemptions and grants, there are many other exemptions or reductions in stamp duty that may apply to you. When considering purchasing a property or transferring a property you should research to see whether any of the exemptions or concessions apply to you. - [Transfer of Property](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/conveyancing/transfer-of-property/): There are many different reasons that people may wish or be ordered to Transfer property to another. If there are mortgages owing on the property being transferred, you will need to discuss with your lender whether they require a refinance of the mortgage. - [Commercial & Business Leasing](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/commercial/commercial-and-business-leasing/): Family Focus has extensive experience in conducting commercial lease matters for both tenants and landlords alike. - [Purchase & Sale of Business](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/commercial/purchase-and-sale-of-business/): Buying or selling a business can be a very exciting but also stressful and complex time. Family Focus Legal have sound processes and procedures in place to make this process as smooth as possible for you. - [Advanced Care Directive](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/advanced-care-directive/): An Advance Care Directive, which is also known as a ‘living Will’, is a document which is often created at the same time as an Enduring Guardianship. - [Disputed & Contested Estates](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/disputed-and-contested-estates/): In circumstances where an individual has been left out of a Will it may be possible to challenge the Will and make a claim against the Estate. - [Enduring Guardianship](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/enduring-guardianship/): An Enduring Guardianship is a legally binding document which appoints a Guardian to make medical decisions for the person appointing them. An Enduring Guardianship can appoint more than one guardian. Similarly, an Enduring Guardianship can be revoked at any time. - [Power of Attorney](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/power-of-attorney/): A Power of Attorney is a document which you can enter into which will allow another person to act on your behalf in financial matters. We believe this is an essential and critical document that everyone should have and believe that it holds the same level of importance as having a current and valid Will. - [Probate & Letters of Administration](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/probate-and-letters-of-administration/): If a person passes away in New South Wales and leaves assets at the time of their death, those assets need to be dealt with and distributed in the correct legal manner. - [Special Disability Trust](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/special-disability-trust/): A Special Disability Trust is a trust fund that is established by the family or carers of an individual who has a severe disability. The Trust aims to ensure that the financial needs in relation to care, medical treatment and living expenses of the disabled person will be met into the future. - [Wills](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/wills-and-estates/wills/): A Will is a legally binding document which expresses your wishes as to what you would like to happen to your estate in the event of your death. - [Adoption](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/adoption/): Adoption in Australia deals with the adoption process in the various parts of Australia, whereby a person assumes or acquires the permanent, legal status of parenthood in relation to a child under the age of 18 in place of the child's birth or biological parents. - [Child Support](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/child-support/): By law both parents are required to support their child financially. In some cases this may involve one parent paying a child support payment to the other, to help with the costs of raising a child. - [De Facto Relationships](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/defacto-relationships/): Whether you are in a de facto relationship is not always obvious, but it can be an important matter to determine when considering whether you have any property settlement entitlements if your relationship breaks down. - [Divorce](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/divorce/): Divorce proceedings refer to the legal ending of a marriage. Our dedicated team of divorce attorneys provides personalised guidance and representation to navigate the complexities of divorce proceedings, ensuring fair resolutions and a fresh start for our clients. - [Family Violence](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/family-violence/): Offering compassionate legal support and advocacy, Family Focus Legal provides comprehensive family violence services to protect and empower individuals and families affected by domestic abuse. - [Legal Aid](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/legal-aid/): We have several Solicitors at Family Focus Legal approved to sit on the NSW Legal Aid Panel for Family Law and Criminal Law matters. We can assist clients in obtaining a Grant of Aid to participate in a Family Dispute Resolution Conference or perhaps to initiate or continue Court proceedings in the areas of Family Law and Criminal matters. We are currently unable to accept clients with current grants of Aid. - [Mediation](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/mediation/): At Family Focus Legal we believe strongly in the success of mediation and in working together collaboratively when possible. - [Parenting](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/parenting/): At the time of Divorce or separation children need support, love and contact with both parents. Some certainty about the future is also very important for everyone. Any agreement about arrangements for the time that a child or children spend with their parents or other significant people can be formalised in a Parenting Plan or Consent Orders. - [Paternity](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/paternity/): Reliable proof of parentage can be especially important for legal reasons. The results of a paternity can be used in a court case to support any claims to the paternity of a child or perhaps to invalidate any previous paternity claims. Anything from getting child support to a paternity affidavit could necessitate a legal DNA test. - [Property](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/property/): During a relationship, most couples acquire assets and build a financial base. After you separate, at some stage it will be necessary to divide your assets through a property settlement. It may be necessary to do this in a formal way, so as to sever your financial ties. These assets can include the family home, investment properties, interests in a business, shares, bank accounts and superannuation. - [Relocation & Recovery](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/relocation-recovery/): Generally, the Court cannot prevent a Parent relocating to live somewhere, however the Court does have the power to stop a parent from taking a child to live with them if that will be some distance from the other parent. - [Superannuation](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/service/family-law/superannuation/): If you have superannuation then it may be important for you to know you can split some of that superannuation to your Partner as part of the property settlement and how that superannuation split will occur. ## Team - [Rebekah Gates](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/rebekah-gates/) - [Mark Gates](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/mark-gates/) - [Rachael Smith](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/rachael-smith/) - [Lauren Newcombe](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/lauren-newcombe/) - [Rachael Parr](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/rachael-parr/) - [Anneliese Munro](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/anneliese-munro/) - [Rosanna Parisi](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/rosanna-parisi/) - [Emily Blue](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/emily-blue/) - [Catherine Van Luenen](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/catherine/) - [Lisa Brodbeck](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/lisa-brodbeck/) - [Emily Veliz](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/emily-veliz/) - [Bridget McDonald](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/bridget-mcdonald/) - [Jenny Larven](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/jenny-larven/) - [Chantel Seuala](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/chantel-seuala/) - [Christine McDermott](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/christine/) - [Sabelle Tripodi](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/sabelle-tripodi/) - [Jade Cameron](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/jade-cameron/) - [Margaret Gajewski](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/margaret-gajewski/) - [Eleice Girotto](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/eleice-girotto/) - [Kirsty Stevens](https://familyfocuslegal.com.au/team/kirsty-stevens/)