Divorce & Family Issues

Adult adoption offers a meaningful way to formalise family bonds and provide legal recognition to established relationships. At Mellor Olsson Lawyers, we offer expert legal guidance for South Australian adults considering adoption. Whether you're looking to solidify a lifelong connection, secure inheritance rights, or establish a legal relationship with a step-parent or guardian, our experienced team is here to help. We guide you through the entire process, ensuring all legal requirements are met and your interests are protected.

Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) can protect assets brought into a relationship, including gifts and inheritances. Agreements in a BFA outline how property will be divided if the relationship breaks down. A BFA can specify that each party retains their pre-relationship or inherited assets. At Mellor Olsson, we assist from the beginning by discussing your objectives, drafting a tailored BFA, and ensuring all legal requirements are met. Our team will guide you through the process, providing clarity and protection for your assets.

Navigating the complexities of children's arrangements during a separation or divorce can be overwhelming. Our experienced team understands the emotional and practical challenges involved in determining the best interests of your children. We offer expert guidance on living with and time spending care arrangements, visitation rights, and parenting plans and orders, ensuring that your children's wellbeing remains the priority throughout the process.

Consent Orders provide a legally binding way to formalise agreements reached between parties during a separation or divorce, covering crucial aspects like property division and children's arrangements. We offer expert advice and assistance in drafting and filing Consent Orders, ensuring they are fair, comprehensive, and tailored to your specific circumstances.

Filing for divorce is a significant step that requires careful consideration and expert legal guidance. Our experienced family law team ensures that all legal requirements are met, streamlining the process and minimising stress. We assist with preparing and lodging your application, handling court proceedings, and addressing any related issues, such as property division and children's arrangements.

Intervention orders can offer vital protection, and Mellor Olsson is here to guide you through the process. Whether you’re applying for an order or need to respond to one, our team provides clear, supportive advice. For applicants, we assist with gathering evidence, preparing applications, and representing you in Court hearings. For defendants, we help you understand the order’s impact, prepare your response, and, if needed, contest unproven allegations.

Mediation and dispute resolution offer constructive alternatives to contentious court battles, helping families find amicable solutions during a relationship breakdown. Mediation facilitates open and respectful communication between parties, aiming to resolve issues related to property division, children's arrangements, and other matters. Mediation and dispute resolution services provide a supportive environment with the aim of reaching mutually beneficial agreements.

Navigating property settlements during a relationship breakdown, whether for married or de facto couples, can be complex and emotionally challenging. At Mellor Olsson Lawyers, we specialise in providing tailored legal advice to help achieve fair and equitable property settlements. Our experienced team guides you through the process, ensuring all assets, liabilities, and financial contributions and resources are thoroughly assessed. We strive to negotiate agreements that protect your interests and provide a stable foundation for your future.

Facing court proceedings during a separation or divorce can be daunting and stressful. We provide expert legal representation to ensure your rights and interests are fully protected. Our experienced family law team is skilled in managing all aspects of court proceedings, from initial filings to final hearings, with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome for you. We offer strategic advice, thorough preparation, and dedicated advocacy, guiding you through the complexities of the legal system with confidence and clarity.

Ensuring financial stability through spousal and child maintenance is a crucial aspect of navigating a relationship breakdown. Our experienced team will guide you through the process of assessing entitlements, negotiating agreements, and, if necessary, representing you in court to ensure reasonable outcomes. We understand the importance of maintaining financial security for you and your children during and after separation or divorce.

Surrogacy can be a beautiful path to parenthood, but it comes with complex legal considerations. At Mellor Olsson Lawyers, we offer comprehensive legal support for South Australians exploring surrogacy to create a family. Our experienced team navigates the intricate legal landscape, assisting with surrogacy agreements, parental orders, and compliance with local laws to ensure a smooth and secure process. We are committed to providing clear and compassionate guidance every step of the way.