Thank You For Your Enquiry
Thank you for reaching out. Your enquiry is important, and a member of the team will be in touch with you shortly to discuss it further.
What happens next
The steps below explain the process and what to expect as we work together.
Initial meeting and short consultation
In our short consultation we will discuss your current situation, how Shane can best assist, and whether we are the right fit to work together. You will have the chance to ask questions, and Shane will ask for details to better understand your circumstances.
To make the most of the session, think about the key matters in advance, such as your safety, living arrangements, financial position, upcoming costs, employment and any legal risks, documents or witnesses that may be relevant. For intervention orders or police charges, consider your safety, finances, any impact on your work or licence, possible witnesses and what you have said to police. For family law, think about your financial documents, your needs and contributions, and whether you would prefer court or an amicable settlement. For mediation, consider timing, whether the other party has been told, the issues to resolve, costs and your safety.
Longer conference (if needed)
If needed, we can meet again for a longer conference to deep-dive into your matter, go through the finer points and work out a strategy moving forward.
Completing documents
You will then be asked to complete some documents, which will ask about:
- Your current living situation
- Your relationship or marriage and separation
- Any current parenting arrangements
- Relationship property, including assets and liabilities
- What you would like to achieve
Formalising our working relationship
If you are ready to go ahead, we will send you a costs agreement to sign. It sets out the terms on which we will act for you and what you can expect from the lawyer-client relationship.
You will then pay a deposit into a trust account, which is secure and audited by the Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner. Once the funds are received, work on your matter can begin.
Let’s get going
If not already provided, you must supply all financial documents required under Rule 13 of the Family Law Rules. Shane will give you written advice on your situation, your options and the next steps. To make the most of our work together, give instructions early, prepare financial and evidence documents in advance, and ask questions whenever you are unsure.
We are here to support you through this difficult time in a practical and reliable way.