A lawyer can help you to identify how the law applies to your situation by helping you to better understand your rights and responsibilities, what options are available to you and give you advice to assist you to make appropriate and considered decisions. There are different rules that apply depending on the type of relationship you are in and whether it is a separation or a divorce. This difference is important to timeframes, your rights and the procedures that apply.

You will probably have a lot of questions. Your lawyer can:

• give you information and help you to understand the rules that apply to your situation;
• explain the court processes and procedures;
• give you advice about the likely timeframes and estimate the costs;
• help you prepare for family dispute resolution;
• assist you to negotiate with your ex-partner;
• prepare your court documents and represent you in court; and
• refer you to specialist services that can assist you.

Remember you give your lawyer your instructions and your lawyer will give you advice about law and process applying to your situation throughout your case.