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Accredited Divorce Lawyer in Sydney

Whether you are about to apply for divorce, currently in the process of divorce proceedings, or you just need advice on what options are available to you, David Chesters – an Accredited Divorce Lawyer in Sydney – will be happy to assess your case, and offer expert legal advice to help you reach a successful outcome.

In order to apply for divorce, you must either approach the Family Court of Australia or the Federal Circuit Court (also known as the Federal Magistrates Court). While the process itself is fairly straightforward, there are strict requirements that both you and your former partner must meet.

Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a Divorce

Below is a breakdown of the requirements for obtaining a divorce in Australia. Keep in mind this is only a general guide. For legal advice related to your unique circumstances, contact Norwest Family Law. David Chesters, your trusted divorce lawyer in Sydney, will gladly take your call.

You must prove the marriage is valid

Provide a copy of the marriage certificate in English. If the marriage certificate is in another language, you must have the documented translated to English before you submit it. If you don’t have a marriage certificate, you will be told what other documentation you can provide to prove the marriage is valid.

You must be separated from your partner for at least 12 months on a continuous basis

This means you have both not identified as a couple for at least 12 months. If there was a brief period of reconciliation, which lasted for 3 months or less, you can continue the 12 month separation period from where you last left off. However, if the reconciliation period lasted for longer than 3 months, then you must restart the 12 month separation period.

For either you or your partner to apply for divorce, one of you must meet at least one of the following criteria:

You regard Australia as home
You intend to live in Australia indefinitely
You have lived in Australia your whole life
You are an Australian citizen, or
You ordinarily live in Australia and have lived in Australia for at least 12 months prior to submitting your application for divorce.

You must prove an appropriate arrangement has been made to ensure the ongoing care of your child/children

This does not have to be a formal arrangement. It can simply be a verbal or written agreement between both parties. However, you must prove the child/children has a permanent place to live, and that a primary caregiver will provide an appropriate level of care.

Why Choose Norwest

Fully Licensed and Accredited - David Chesters, owner and operator of Norwest Family Law, is an Accredited Family Law Specialist with over 25 years of experience in handling sensitive and complex divorce related matters.
Easy to Follow Advice - Legal terminology can get confusing. We break down complex terms and concepts in clear, easy to understand language that makes sense to you. This way, you are fully informed about the situation, and you have the necessary info to make the right choice.
Successful Outcomes - Whether your divorce related matters are simple or complex, we will always act in your best interests and strive to achieve an outcome that is mutually beneficial for all parties.
Friendly and Personable - Talking about divorce-related matters can be confronting. Here, you will receive friendly and honest advice in a relaxed, comfortable environment, where you are free to express your concerns and ask as many questions as you wish.
All-in-one Solution - Divorce comes with a variety of challenges to overcome. Such as the division of property, finances, provision of childcare (including the possibility of child support payments), and much more. If you have any other divorce-related issues that you need legal advice on, we’ll be happy to advise you on all facets of family law.

Request a Consultation

Whether you are ready to start the alternative resolution process, or you need more info on what to expect, Norwest Family Law will be happy to help you. Simply fill out the online form below.

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