Do I Need a Family Lawyer?
Answer 10 simple questions below to understand your situation and find out what level of legal support you may need.
By Laura Summerville, Legal Practice Director & Co-Founder, Elysian Law
Not sure if you need a family lawyer yet? These are the same questions our family lawyers ask when someone first reaches out. Answer honestly to get a clearer picture of your situation and whether it's time to seek advice.
Getting advice early protects your position on property, parenting, and finances before arrangements become informal habits that are harder to change later.
Book an Initial Consultation →If you have not yet formalised a property settlement, time limits may apply. We can confirm where you stand at your consultation.
Parenting arrangements are assessed against the children's best interests, so it is worth understanding your current care arrangements before deciding your next step.
Discuss Parenting Arrangements →Your situation can focus on property and financial matters rather than parenting orders.
Safety concerns are always treated as urgent. We will prioritise your consultation and discuss protective options alongside your family law matter.
Request Urgent Appointment →You have more time to weigh up your options before deciding whether to seek advice.
Active matters have fixed filing and hearing dates. We will need copies of all court documents at your first appointment.
Get Help With Your Court Matter →There is more flexibility to explore negotiation or mediation before any court application becomes necessary.
If mediation was unsuccessful, we can review the outcome and advise on your next steps, including a Section 60I certificate where relevant.
Mediation is not always appropriate, particularly where safety concerns exist. We will help you assess whether it suits your circumstances.
Talk Through Your Options →We will ask you to gather bank statements, super balances, and property valuations ahead of your first appointment to speed up advice.
Prepare for Property Settlement →A first consultation can move quickly to parenting or other priorities.
Negotiating without representation while your former partner has a lawyer puts you at a disadvantage. We would recommend engaging promptly.
Get Representation →You still benefit from independent advice, even informally, before agreeing to anything in writing.
Bringing these to your consultation lets us give you more specific advice from the outset.
At your first consultation, we will give you a clear list of what to gather before your matter progresses, so nothing is missed.
Get Your Document Checklist →We will ask for your consent to request a copy of your file from the previous firm so we can pick up your matter without delay.
A first consultation will cover the basics of how family law applies to your situation from the ground up.
Our first appointment is designed to answer these questions directly, so you leave with a clear picture of your options.
Book Your First Consultation →We will still confirm the finer details with you, including anything specific to Queensland family law procedure.
Call us on TEL (07) 31 881 799 or get in touch online.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 support call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
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