Separation is a deeply personal matter. When you are involved in the breakdown of a relationship and need to seek advice, you will often need to share private information with your advisor.
Your lawyer will ask you questions about matters that you may otherwise consider to be private, however it is important that they have as much information as possible to be able to advise you accurately. For example, in a property matter, your lawyer will ask you what your income is. They may ask how you divided your household chores and how much you contributed towards the purchase of your house. In a parenting matter, your lawyer may ask who was more involved in bedtime and bath-time in the first few years of your child’s life.
You may need to discuss the state of your physical and mental health. This may lead you to disclose information about any treatment you receive, or how you coped with your separation. The information you provide will shape the legal advice you receive, which will ultimately impact on the decisions you make for your future.
Given how much you need to share in a family law matter, it is crucial that you select the right lawyer. You need to feel comfortable with the advice you are receiving. First and foremost, you need to feel secure in sharing private and personal information with your lawyer in the knowledge that they will use that information to provide you with appropriate and accurate advice.
Whilst your lawyer may not be your best friend, you need to be able to work with your lawyer. When you meet with a lawyer, for example when you attend an initial appointment, you will have a ‘feel’ of what they are like and how they will approach your matter. At the early stage of your matter, it is useful to discuss what the process is for resolving your legal matter and which direction they see your matter going.
Many clients opt for a boutique approach to their matter in contrast to a ‘big’ corporate firm. A boutique family law firm can provide an extra level of comfort, where the firm’s Directors have oversight on your matter, and you can feel assured that your matter is progressing in a strategic direction.
It is also important for your lawyer to have a broad network. Family law matters regularly require a multidisciplinary approach, involving accountants, property valuers, psychologists and other experts. Your lawyer will draw on their knowledge and connections to assist you in reaching an early resolution of your matter where possible.
Here at Robinson + McGuinness, our family lawyers have a wide range of expertise and extensive networks to assist you with your family law matter. To arrange an appointment with one of our lawyers, please contact our office on (02) 6225 7040 or by email on info@rmfamilylaw.com.au or get started now online with one of our experienced lawyers.
Author: Anika Buckley