Proposed changes to the South Australian Adoption Act 1988 will enable over 18’s the opportunity to be adopted. This change, evolving from a series of recommendations put forward by independent reviewer Associate Professor Lorna Hallahan, is just one that relates to a range of changes to the Adoption Act that will also enable same-sex couples and extend the rights of single people to … [Read more...]
Kids & Education Post-Separation
My ex and I have very different ideas about how we want our children educated. Even when we were together we couldn’t agree and it was one of the reasons why our marriage ended. With our eldest child starting school next year we need to make some important decisions. I really want both our children to attend the small Catholic school around the corner, but my ex was always adamant that the … [Read more...]
Separated Families: Special Occasions
When you separate, there are so many things to consider. Obviously if children are involved the primary focus is making sure that they feel loved by both parents. Initially, your immediate considerations revolve around their living arrangements. Will they live with mum, dad or a combination of both? Will they continue to live in the house that they know, or will circumstances necessitate a move … [Read more...]
Elder Financial Abuse: A Growing Concern
There is growing talk about younger generations moving into adulthood with a sense of entitlement. While this condition is often spoken of in relation to Gen Y’s; a sense of being entitled to things in the ‘now’ and without having worked for them is an affliction to which no generation is immune. Of course, while it is one thing to expect to have material things handed to you on a silver … [Read more...]
Appreciating the Role of Professional Counselling in Family Law Proceedings
There are times in my job that I feel more like a relationship counsellor than a Lawyer. Family Law is one where these roles work hand in hand. It is to be expected. I work closely with people as they struggle through the life challenges that separation and divorce bring. I aim to make the transition for my clients, their children and at times extended families, as stress free as … [Read more...]
Who Gets the Fur Baby? Pets & Separation
In 2016 there were 24 million pets in Australia. In fact, last year 62% of Aussie households had at least one pet. One only needs to undertake a quick google search to realise that doggie and feline hotels, day care facilities and designer pet accessories are big business. Certainly, the booming pet care industry reflects a significant change in attitudes towards our furry friends. Indeed, … [Read more...]
Estate Planning After Separation and Divorce
I have been married for several years but have recently separated from my spouse. We have finalised a property settlement, but are yet to get around to being officially divorced.. I don’t have a Will, does this mean my former spouse will still have access to my estate when I die? The simple answer is yes. Whilst you may be separated, you are still legally married and have a legal ‘spouse’ in … [Read more...]
E-Filing for Divorce Applications
We live in a world in which we are increasingly electing to do certain things using online platforms such as grocery shopping and paying bills. It is becoming a way of life; the new norm so to speak. While it is fair to say that law has been slow in the uptake, some legal processes are now occurring in cyberspace. From 1st March 2017 an Application for Divorce will no longer be able to be … [Read more...]
Mum & Dad Banks Beware
Each morning I like to watch a few minutes of Sunrise. At least I do, until I realise that the kids are no-where close to being ready for school (and the grumbling ensues). At any rate, yesterday morning, I happened to catch a report about the rise of ‘Mum and Dad Banks’. This is the term that has been coined to describe a situation when parents provide money or security to assist their … [Read more...]
Parenting Solo After Separation: 5 Tips for Smoothing the Transition
Joanna Diamantopoulos has more than a decade's experience as a family lawyer. Today, she shares some wisdom for parents who are in the throes of a relationship breakdown, with advice for making this event a smooth transition for children. Separation and divorce is unquestionably one of the more stressful life events you can experience. It creates an emotional upheaval, not only for you but … [Read more...]
