Contact

☎ CONTACT

Email: peterpitcher@internode.on.net

Tel: 0459 064 187

Family Law

Separation and divorce is some of the most difficult events that you will ever experience. You must deal with legal and financial issues, the needs of your children, and your own emotions as you grieve the loss of your relationship. Understandably, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of these demands. We can guide you through this difficult process.

We will listen attentively to your story.We will answer your questions and dispel any myths or misconceptions you may have about separation and/or divorce in Australia.

We will assess your case and help you identify realistic achievable goals. We will develop a strategy to achieve your goals and implement that strategy in vigorous settlement negotiations.

In many cases, we are able to achieve a settlement. But, if settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, we are prepared to try your case in court.

We handle all aspects of family law including divorce, children’s issues, binding financial agreements, property division, spousal maintenance and child support. We can arrange valuation of businesses and other property.

Our clientele is diverse. We represent men and women, working and non-working spouses.

If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss an impending divorce or other family law issue, please email us, or telephone us.

Restraining Orders

Violence Restraining Orders

You can apply to the court for a Violence Restraining Order (VRO) against someone who is not a family member if you need protection because of the risk of personal violence. The court can also make a VRO to protect children from being exposed to personal violence. A VRO makes it unlawful for a person to do certain things, in order to try and stop them from committing acts of personal violence or exposing a child to personal violence.

Family Violence Restraining Orders

You can apply to the court for a Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO) against a family member if you need protection because of the risk of family violence. The court can also make an FVRO to protect children from being exposed to family violence. An FVRO makes it unlawful for a family member to do certain things in order to try and stop them from committing family violence or exposing a child to family violence.

 Misconduct Restraining Orders

You can apply to the court for a Misconduct Restraining Order against someone who is not a family member, if you need protection because of their disruptive, offensive or destructive behaviour. 

A Misconduct Restraining Order makes it unlawful for a person to do certain things, in order to try and stop them from continuing their poor behaviour. This person might be a neighbour, colleague, or member of a club or association.

What to do if Served with a Restraining Order:

If a restraining order is served on you, it is important for you to read the order carefully, to understand it and to comply with the terms of the Order.

You may wish to object to the Order. If you have been served with an interim violence restraining order, and you feel it is unfair, or is based upon untruths, you may have grounds to object to it.

We assist clients to determine the merits for a successful objection, and we provide court representation at the hearing of the final order application.

We can help you if you have been served with an interim restraining order and would like to schedule a consultation to discuss the order and your rights. Please email us, or telephone us to arrange a meeting.
 

Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Estates, Probate and Letters of Administration

Preparing a Will can be an intimidating task. All it takes is one small error and your intentions can be sorely compromised. Laws are constantly changing and without the necessary legal expertise, what was intended as a way to protect your family may actually lay the groundwork for unnecessary disputes later on. Whether you're drafting your first will or updating an existing one, it is always a wise idea to consult a respected estate solicitor to ensure that your documents are in proper order. Through the advice of legal experts, you can avoid making rookie mistakes that may prove costly in the future. We place great emphasis on having a valid Will. We can assist our clients with the drafting of their Will.

We also provide assistance with Probate applications, applications for Letters of Administration and a complete and efficient estate administration service.