Dear Katrina,
Who is entitled to what in a separation?
Determining who gets what after separation is not a mathematical
exercise and there are many factors we must consider
when providing advice to clients about what their entitlement may be.
We are guided by the factors set out in the Family Law Act,
as well as the many decisions made by the Courts,
which provide us with assistance as to what the important considerations are.
A Court will not make an order unless it is satisfied that, in all of the circumstances, it is just and equitable to make the order.
When providing advice to clients, we must consider our client’s property entitlement as the Court does, which includes the following steps:
Firstly, we identify and value the property, liabilities and financial resources of the parties. We assess their financial, non-financial and welfare contributions, as well as assessing any future needs factors such as disparity of income, income earning capacity and taking care of the children.
In addition, we consider the effect of those findings and specify what order should be made for a “just and equitable” outcome.
When deciding what orders should be made, some of the factors we take into account include the financial contribution made directly or indirectly by (or on behalf of) a party or child of the marriage to the acquisition, conservation or improvement of any of the property of either party, any non-financial contribution, the age and health of each party and much more.
The above list is not exhaustive and there are many other factors that must be considered.
We strongly recommend that parties obtain legal advice to determine their entitlement based on their individual circumstances.
