Michelle Porcheron Lawyers Gold Coast
Bundall QLD 4217
9am - 5pm Monday to Friday
Defacto Relationships
Under the Family Law Act, a person is in a de facto relationship with another person if the persons are not legally married to each other, they are not related by family and they are a couple that are in a relationship on a ‘genuine domestic basis’.
If all three of the above points are present, the Court will take into consideration a range of factors which include the duration of the relationship, nature and extent of common residence and the reputation and public aspects of the relationship.
New Commonwealth Laws were enforced on 1 March 2009 in relation to the division of property for people in de facto relationship separations. These laws enable de facto couples to access the Family Law Court of Australia and the Federal Magistrates Court for property division and spousal maintenance matters, as married couples can.
De facto property matters can be finalised either by Consent Orders or a Binding Financial Agreement. In the event that a matter is required to be brought to court, Michelle Porcheron Lawyers can assist you in ensuring that the matter is settled efficiently and effectively.
Ways a De facto Relationship Lawyer Can Help During Separation
We are experienced in all areas pertaining to de facto relationships, including:
Speak With an Accredited Family Law Specialist
At Michelle Porcheron Lawyers, you’ll work directly with an Accredited Family Law Specialist and our supportive all-female team. Clients turn to us because we deliver clear advice, personal service and strong outcomes free of unnecessary stress or cost.
Contact us today for a consultation with a trusted de facto relationship lawyer in Queensland.
Need an expert in Defacto Relationships?
FAQs
You should consult a de facto relationship lawyer as soon as separation is likely or occurs. Early legal advice protects your rights, clarifies entitlements and guides negotiations. Acting quickly also reduces conflict and helps achieve fair outcomes without unnecessary court involvement.
In Queensland, de facto partners have similar entitlements to married couples. This may include property division, superannuation splitting and possible spousal maintenance. A Queensland-based de facto relationship lawyer can explain eligibility, assess contributions and negotiate fair arrangements tailored to your circumstances.
Under the Family Law Act, a de facto relationship exists when two people, unmarried or related, live together on a genuine domestic basis. Courts consider factors like duration, financial interdependence, property ownership and public acknowledgment. Recognition grants access to legal remedies on separation in Queensland.
A de facto relationship lawyer helps identify and value assets, assess contributions and negotiate fair division. They prepare binding agreements or consent orders which can protect rights and avoid disputes. If matters proceed to court, they provide expert representation to pursue the best outcome for your financial future.