Getting access to funds under the Family Law Act

When life does not go to plan, we always hope that there is going to be support available. This is especially the case when we need legal support to assist with issues like separation, divorce, and family disputes.

When a relationship breaks down, the cost of legal fees is not usually the first concern people have, things like where am I going to live, and how am I going to pay bills are more common concerns. And of course, how do I sort this out? This is best answered by a lawyer who practices in Family Law.

There are many reasons why people may not have funds to engage a Family Lawyer to assist them in the breakdown of their relationship, whether that assistance is to completely act for them or guide and assist along the way.  Some of the reasons that people may not have the funds:

– they do not work

– they work reduced hours because of health or childcare reasons

– they simply do not have the extra income to pay legal fees

How do you get legal assistance to help to address your concerns if you do not have the funds to pay for a mortgage, to move out of the jointly owned property because you cannot live there anymore, or even to pay day to day living expenses?

There are so many reasons why an individual cannot work, caring responsibilities, lack of access to childcare, housekeeping responsibilities or, unfortunately, where there is family violence or a controlling partner who does not allow access to the family finances. Accessing assistance to progress a Family Law matter is not something that all members of our community can afford.