My de-facto partner and I have decided to separate after 7 years. During the course of our relationship I looked after the household and our 2 children while my partner worked. I am concerned that after our separation I won’t be able to get a property settlement.
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Pearl Beaumont, Bronte 2024 NSW
- If you are in a de-facto relationship recognised by the law then you may be able to apply for a property settlement or spousal maintenance.
- As with any issue after separation it is a good idea to see if you can come to an agreement without the need to go to court.
- You may be able to come to agreement by yourselves or with the assistance of a mediator or a lawyer to negotiate on your behalf.
- If this does not work then you may be able to apply to the court to make an order for property settlement or spousal maintenance.
- These laws apply to de-facto relationships that ended or broke down after 1 March 2009.
- It is a good idea to get legal advice if you live in Western Australia as the law is different there.