The Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia (“the Family Law Courts”) have issued a joint practice direction for parties and practitioners to family law matters before the Family Law Courts on 28 January 2020.  

For separating parties and litigants to family law proceedings this will mean that:

(a)   You will be expected to negotiate and genuinely attempt to resolve your dispute before issuing proceedings;

(b)   When you issue proceedings, you will be expected to provide full and frank disclosure of your financial circumstances and ensure the Orders you seek are supported by evidence. You will be expected to comply with Court Orders and the Rules of Court ; and

(c)   The solicitor conducting your matter will be expected to keep you updated as to the legal costs and disbursements involved in your matter, ensure those costs are proportionate to your matter, and be prepared when conducting your case before the Courts.

The practice direction can be accessed via the following link:

http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/rules-and-legislation/practice-directions/2020/jpd012020.

It is likely the Family Law System will continue to be subject to reform. Coote Family Lawyers are recognised as one of the top family law firms in Melbourne and are able to assist parties to resolve their parenting and financial matters and, if necessary, navigate the changing landscape of the Family Law System and the Courts.   Please call us on 03 9804 0035 for further information.

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