📢 Our office will be closed for the Christmas break from 11:30am on Friday, 20 December 2024, and will reopen at 8:30am on Monday, 6 January 2025. 📢
FREE 30 mins Family Law Consult
Limited spots are available.
Going through a family law issue can be an incredibly difficult time in one’s life. If you’re currently dealing with the challenges of separation and are looking for a solution that protects your rights and future in any family law matter Ferrall & Co. can help.
We specialise in assisting with both the emotional and legal aspects of family law matters and are here to support you. Our family law solicitors will assess your case to find the best strategy for your circumstances.
When a married couple’s relationship breaks down due to issues that cannot be resolved, the couple has a right to divorce according to Australian law, and we provide practical advice to navigate this process.
Ferrall & Co. are passionate about supporting families and seeing the best outcomes achieved, especially for the children involved in a family separation.
When couples separate within the legal system, they need to fairly divide their property that they acquired during their relationship. Property in this case doesn’t just mean real estate.
If you have been in a relationship where you were not legally married, you may be considered a de-facto couple by the family court.
Under the Family Law, same sex relationships involving same sex couples have the same rights in both de facto relationships and in marriage as heterosexual couples.
How Can We Help You?
Our divorce lawyers in Caloundra, who are also experienced family lawyers, are dedicated to supporting couples going through a divorce and legally managing an appropriate property settlement. We can also help families negotiate child support and organize parenting arrangements.
We want to help our clients understand and feel sure about the challenges of getting a divorce. As family lawyers, we will speak up for what is best for them at every stage of the process.
Applicants can seek a divorce alone or jointly with their former partner in family law. A sole application can present challenges, especially if your ex-partner is uncooperative. We will help you manage issues around service of documents and navigating dispute resolution.
If you’re pursuing a joint application in family law, we can work with you to make the process as smooth as possible. We assist with document preparation and form submission.
Property settlement is an important, but often complex, matter in divorce. There are several ways to organise property matters which all have potential pitfalls. Our Caloundra family lawyers understand what is required to help you avoid common mistakes.
We can help no matter what course you decide to take in family law. While not generally recommended, we can help make informal agreements work for you. Alternatively, our team as family lawyer can assist with binding financial agreements or consent orders. If disputes arise, our litigation experience in family law can organize financial orders to protect your entitlement.
Domestic violence is one of the most sensitive family law issues the Court faces, and as a family lawyer, I understand the emotional toll experienced by the client combined with a need for urgent action makes domestic and family violence concerns difficult.
Our number one concern in family law is ensuring that you and your family are safe. This can involve organizing protection orders or establishing effective parenting orders. We will work to make sure that you have an effective legal strategy in place.
There are various complexities in the Family Law Act when it comes to parenting arrangements. Custody matters can be arranged informally or through court orders. Whichever path you choose to take, legal representation will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
We keep your child’s best interests central at all times. Our legal services can assist with especially complicated cases involving international jurisdictional issues or relocation orders. Feel secure in the knowledge that our solicitors will be by your side at each step.
Start with a free consultation where we listen to your story, understand your situation and provide an outline of our assistance. This initial step ensures that you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Together, we’ll create a clear, personalised plan for your needs. This step removes the guesswork and gives you a roadmap, showing exactly how we’ll handle your situation.
With the plan in place, you can rest easy knowing that we will handle all the legal details for you. From filing paperwork to negotiating on your behalf, we work tirelessly to secure the best outcome, allowing you to focus on moving forward with your life.
After completing a Bachelor of Laws at James Cook University in Townsville in 2002, Rowena completed her initial legal training at the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (ATSILS) in Townsville. She then finalised her Post Graduate Diploma through the Australian National University in Canberra in 2004, the same year she qualified to practice as a solicitor.
Rowena is admitted to practice in Queensland and in the High Court of Australia, allowing her to appear in all Courts in Queensland as well as Federally based Courts across the country.
Rowena has worked in Townsville, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane in general litigation since her admission in 2004. After working as a generalist for several years, Rowena decided that she could best serve her community by opening her own boutique legal practice with a relaxed approach to client consultations, a manageable fee structure, as well as incorporating two furry friends who provide additional support for clients when in need.
Our lawyers in Caloundra are dedicated to supporting clients in family law, domestic violence, traffic matters, personal injury, and criminal defense cases with sophistication and compassion.
Divorce can be overwhelming, but we handle the legalities for you.
By managing the process and avoiding common pitfalls, we help reduce the stress and uncertainty of divorce, thereby enhancing your overall well-being.
Our family lawyers simplify legal proceedings, ensuring you’re clear and comfortable every step of the way.
We work hard to ensure a fair division of assets and suitable parenting arrangements, protecting your interests.
Family legal issues are sensitive and complex, but we can guide you through this time with honesty, integrity and expert advice.
If you are being investigated by the police or any other investigative body, you likely need quick, solid legal advice.
Traffic offences can strip a person of their license to drive, which can harm their life, with some experiencing immense personal and financial hardship.
Don’t let the legal process overwhelm you and hinder your path towards financial security and a positive future.
Our divorce lawyers in Caloundra can help you move forward confidently, including guidance on child custody. Feel comfortable in our welcoming office environment, and we will give you the guidance you need to apply for and finalize your divorce.
Book an obligation-free meeting so we can discuss your options and the range of family law services we offer. Rest assured, we set fixed fees for divorce cases, so you won’t be surprised with an unexpected bill.
We’re here for you every step of the way.
Suncoast Community Legal Service provides free legal advice to the community. It does so through its volunteers and employed solicitors. You can schedule appointments for one-on-one consultations about a family law matter and access information. You can also get referrals and get help filling out forms. Suncoast Community Legal Service has a presence in Caloundra, Maroochydore, Landsborough, Noosa, Pomona, Maleny and Nambour.
The Caloundra Community Centre provides many programs to the local area. The centre has meeting rooms for hire, playgroups and a women’s group, among other activities. It also offers free legal advice and a family support program.
Are you experiencing domestic violence issues? You can access Lifeline and domestic violence counselling at the Caloundra Community Centre. These services are available by appointment on specific days.
A Justice of the Peace (JP) is available at the Caloundra Library to serve your needs. JPs are volunteers who provide vital services in family law issues. They serve as qualified witnesses for documents such as:
JPs help family law solicitors to focus on complex family law issues. To find out when a JP is available in Caloundra.
The Caloundra Street Fair is a vibrant event in the heart of downtown Caloundra. It offers a therapeutic blend of community interaction and leisurely shopping.
Engaging with local artisans, enjoying street performances, and savouring local delicacies can offer a refreshing escape. It provides a positive, engaging experience to reduce the emotional toll of Family Court.
The Caloundra Coastal Walk is a stunning 73km pathway that showcases the region’s natural beauty, from Bulcock Beach to Kings Beach and beyond.
This scenic walk provides an excellent opportunity for mindfulness and physical activity, which are beneficial for emotional and physical health.
Kayaking in Caloundra offers a unique way to connect with nature and find tranquillity on the water. Paddle through the calm waters of Pumicestone Passage, Currimundi Lake, or Tooway Creek.
This activity provides physical exercise and helps take your mind off relationship breaks or family law matters. It also offers a meditative experience as you glide through the water.
We understand that dealing with the intricacies of the Family Law Act takes its toll. It would be best to have a local lawyer who understands your emotional needs. As your family lawyer, we provide legal representation and practical advice for your situation. We can give professional advice on your property settlement, child support, parenting arrangements and other legal matters.
If you’re in Caloundra or the surrounding Sunshine Coast area, Ferrall & Co. Lawyers specialise in family law among other legal areas. We offer expertise in handling complex family matters with compassion and professionalism.
Our office is located at the Echelon Centre, Level One, 65-67 Bulcock Street, Caloundra, QLD 4551.
Choosing the best family lawyer involves:
You can check our blog about right family lawyer for more information.
If you’re drafting a BFA, you can divide your property more flexibly. Parties can agree to any division, provided they receive independent legal advice. Consent orders submitted to the Family Court must pass a four-step process:
The marital pool is identified and valued.
The contributions, financial and non-financial, of each party is considered.
The future needs of each party are determined.
A final determination of whether the order is fair and equitable.
There are various factors the Court will consider when ruling on custody issues. This includes, but isn’t limited to, the following:
Meaningful Relationship with Both Parents. The Court considers the importance of the child maintaining a strong relationship with both parents. If the Court doesn’t consider equal time appropriate, it may opt for substantial time instead.
Equal shared parental responsibility. The law assumes that it’s in the child’s best interests for both parents to have an equal say in their upbringing. This includes making decisions about education, religious instruction and living arrangements.
Protecting the Child from Physical or Psychological Harm. This includes considering any history of family violence or abuse. If there’s any concern a child will be exposed to such situations, the Court will adjust custody arrangements to remove this risk.
Each Parent’s Attitude to the Responsibilities of Parenthood. This examines how each parent views their role and responsibilities towards the child. If the Court is convinced one parent isn’t taking their parental role seriously, their role in the child’s life will be reduced accordingly.
The Court can enforce a court order if either party breaches it. Potential penalties depend on the nature of the order.
Fines or imprisonment. The Court can impose fines or imprisonment on the party who has breached the financial order. This is an extreme measure for severe or repeated breaches.
Compensation and Legal Costs. The breaching party may be ordered to pay the legal costs incurred by the other party in seeking enforcement of the order. The Court may also adjust the terms of the order to compensate the aggrieved party.
Enforcement Hearings. The Court can order an enforcement hearing where the breaching party must explain their financial situation. Failure to attend may lead to a warrant for the party’s arrest.
Parental orders
Change of the Parenting Order. The Court may alter the parenting order to address the breach and prevent future non-compliance.
Compensation for Time Lost. The breach may involve the denial of contact or time with the child. In this case, the Court might order additional time for the other party to compensate for what was lost.
Post-Separation Parenting Program. The Court can order the person who breached the order to attend a parenting program. This program aims to improve their understanding of the child’s needs and the importance of complying with court orders.
📌 New office address details – Echelon Centre, Level One, 65-67 Bulcock Street, Caloundra, Q 4551 📌
Phone: (07) 5491 2159
Email: admin@ferrallco.com.au
