Family Law in Nowra
Serving Shoalhaven & The Illawarra
- No-Cost First Consultation
- 30+ Years Diverse Legal Experience
- Transparent Legal Advice
Request a Call Back
Thank you for contacting NH Legal.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Oops, there was an error sending your message.
Please try again later.
Nowra Family Law
At NH Legal in South Nowra, we take a structured and outcome-focused approach to family law. Our role isn’t just to guide you through separation or divorce—it’s to help you move forward with legally sound solutions that reduce uncertainty.
We work with individuals navigating parenting arrangements, consent orders, property settlements and spousal matters, ensuring all agreements are properly documented and enforceable. This helps limit the risk of future conflict and avoids unnecessary delays in finalising your matter. We also recognise that family law is not just about paperwork—it’s about stability, planning and ensuring the well-being of all parties involved.
Each matter is assessed on its own facts. We only proceed where legal intervention is needed and where a client benefits from formalising arrangements. If you’d like to discuss your options, call
0416 705 799
to book a no-cost initial consultation.
Practical Legal Pathways for Families
We assist with a full range of family law matters, including divorce, parenting plans, financial settlements, and court applications. For parenting matters, we focus on practical agreements that support the child’s best interests and avoid drawn-out disputes. Where agreements can’t be reached, we assist with preparation for mediation or court, helping you understand what is required and what outcomes are likely. In financial matters, we provide advice on disclosure obligations, asset protection, and binding financial agreements to ensure clarity and certainty going forward.
We also support clients in more complex situations, such as responding to contravention applications or applying for urgent orders. Regardless of the complexity, our focus is on helping you make informed decisions with clear legal steps at each stage. All advice is structured to reflect current legal standards and ensure compliance with court processes.
If you're dealing with a family law issue and want to understand your legal position, contact us today to arrange a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for applying for divorce in Australia?
To apply for divorce in Australia, a couple must be separated for at least 12 months. Either party—or both parties jointly—can file the divorce application with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. The application can be completed online through the court’s portal. The applicant must provide a marriage certificate and, if there are children under 18, evidence of suitable parenting arrangements. After filing, a hearing date is scheduled. If it's a sole application and there are children involved, the applicant must attend the court hearing. For joint applications or cases without children, attendance may not be required. Once the court is satisfied that all legal requirements are met, a divorce order is granted and becomes final one month and one day after the hearing date. Divorce does not resolve issues like property settlement or parenting arrangements, which must be addressed separately.
How long after separation can you apply for a property settlement?
In Australia, there are time limits for applying for a property settlement after separation. For married couples, the application must be made within 12 months of the date a divorce becomes final. For de facto relationships, the limit is two years from the date of separation. If you miss the deadline, you may need to apply to the court for permission to proceed, which is only granted in limited circumstances, such as financial hardship or where children are involved. A property settlement involves dividing all assets, debts, and superannuation between parties. It is strongly advised to finalise these arrangements as soon as possible after separation to avoid complications, such as asset dissipation or changes in financial circumstances. Property settlements can be formalised through consent orders or financial agreements, ensuring legal enforceability and clarity.
Can de facto couples make claims under family law in Australia?
Yes, de facto couples in Australia have many of the same rights as married couples under the Family Law Act. A de facto relationship is recognised when two people (including same-sex couples) live together on a genuine domestic basis, generally for two years or more. Exceptions may apply if there is a child of the relationship or significant financial contributions were made. After separation, either party can apply for property settlement, spousal maintenance, and parenting orders through the Family Court. The same time limits apply—property or maintenance claims must be made within two years of separation. Evidence such as shared finances, joint ownership of property, and cohabitation are used to establish the existence of a de facto relationship. Legal processes and entitlements are largely the same as those for married couples, though establishing the relationship may require more documentation and proof.
