Step 1: Talk it over
One of the first things to consider before involving family lawyers is to determine whether or not your marriage or relationship can be saved. There is a wide range of support available from counsellors and therapists that may assist with salvaging your relationship. Even if you are sure that your marriage or relationship has broken down irretrievably, mediation may be a suitable option and one that can be undertaken in parallel with the legal process. A good mediator can assist you and your spouse/partner to reach a prompt and amicable agreement. This may not only save you significant legal fees, but also time and emotion cost, associated with protracted negotiations/litigation. You may locate mediation or Family Dispute Resolution services at organisations such as Relationships Australia WA and Anglicare WA, however they often involve longer wait times, than mediation undertaken with a private mediator. We can recommend our Lucy Thomas who is both experienced and highly regarded for her approach and success rate. See Lucy’s profile on our website for her extensive family law background as a private family lawyer representative, Independent Children’s Lawyer and mediator.
Step 2: Choose the right family lawyer
One of the first decisions you need to make when either considering a separation or have recently separated from your spouse is to choose the right family lawyer. There are many options and it can be hard to know where to start looking. Not all family law cases are the same and at Paterson & Dowding Family Lawyers we will do our best to match you with the right family lawyer based on the information you have provided our office. We will make sure that the family lawyer you appoint has the necessary experience and the relevant skills to achieve the best possible resolution for you. We recognise that each and every one of our client’s circumstances may differ depending upon the nature of your relationship with your former spouse and your financial circumstances. Our initial consultation will enable you to meet with the family lawyer we have matched you with, based on the information you have provided to our office, to determine whether they are the best fit for you before you decide to engage us to proceed with your case. There is no obligation following the initial consultation to engage our services.
Step 3: Attend your consultation
We expect that your initial appointment will take approximately 1-2 hours. Please contact our offices on (08) 9226 3300 to enquire about our special fixed fee initial appointment.
