Damian Black • October 2, 2024

Understanding your entitlements when your partner was the primary financial earner.

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“Navigating the complexities of family law can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding your entitlements after a relationship ends. A common question we hear is - If I looked after the kids while my ex-partner worked, am I entitled to anything? The answer is nuanced but important for those in similar situations” Solicitor Stafford Mortensen shares.


“Contributions recognised by the Family Law Act include both financial and non-financial contributions made during a relationship. Non-financial contributions include responsibilities such as caring for children and maintaining the family home. These contributions are just as important as financial ones when determining how to fairly divide the property pool after separation.” 


If you played a major role in the home and assumed the role of primary caregiver for your children while your partner was the primary earner, you may be entitled to a larger share of the property pool. 


The court will consider various factors, including: 


1.     The length of the relationship; 

2.     The contributions made by each party (both financial and non-financial); and

3.     The future needs of each party. 


Entitlement to Spousal Maintenance in addition to property division.



If you sacrificed your career or earning potential to care for the children and support your partner's career, you might be entitled to ongoing spousal maintenance. Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one party to the other to help meet reasonable expenses after separation. 


When determining spousal maintenance, the court evaluates several factors, including: 


1.     The income and earning capacity of both parties; 

2.     Their age and health; and 

3.     Future needs, such as care obligations and living expenses.


Understanding your rights and entitlements after a relationship ends can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this process alone. At Wonderley & Hall Family Law, we are committed to providing compassionate and expert legal support tailored to your unique circumstances. 


If you have questions about your situation or would like guidance on your rights regarding property division or spousal maintenance, reach out to our experienced family law team today. We're here to help you secure a fair outcome that considers all your contributions.


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Family law issues can be complex and emotionally taxing no matter where you are, but navigating these matters in rural areas can present unique challenges. At Wonderley & Hall, we understand the intricacies involved and are committed to providing dedicated support to families in rural Queensland and New South Wales. Here, we explore the distinctive aspects of handling family law cases in rural communities and offer solutions to address these challenges. Rural areas often have fewer legal practitioners, which can limit access to specialised family law services. Unlike urban centres with multiple family law firms and legal aid services, rural residents may find themselves traveling long distances or facing long wait times to get the legal support they need. The physical distance between clients and legal professionals can be a significant barrier. Rural clients might struggle with the logistics of traveling to meet with their lawyer, which can delay the resolution of their case and add to their stress. “Working with families in rural areas presents unique challenges, but it also offers us the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. We understand the importance of being accessible and supportive, and we are dedicated to overcoming the barriers that rural clients might face” says Associate, Lyn Ha. While rural communities are known for their close-knit nature, they might lack formal support services such as counselling, mediation, and support groups. This can leave individuals navigating family disputes without the necessary emotional and practical support. In smaller communities, privacy can be a concern due to the high likelihood of encountering people who are familiar with one’s personal situation. This can create additional stress and complicate legal proceedings, especially in sensitive family law cases. Rural areas may have unique cultural norms and values that influence family dynamics and legal perceptions. Understanding and navigating these cultural aspects is crucial for effective legal representation. How can Wonderley & Hall help? Advances in technology have made it easier for rural residents to access legal services remotely. Virtual consultations, online document submissions, and digital communication tools can bridge the gap created by physical distance. Our team at Wonderley & Hall offers flexible consultation options to accommodate rural clients. “Our goal is to provide compassionate, effective legal support while addressing the specific needs of our rural clients. Whether through virtual consultations or local partnerships, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the legal resources and support they need,” added Lyn Ha. Providing educational resources and workshops on family law matters can empower rural communities with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. We are committed to offering resources that help individuals understand their rights and options. At Wonderley & Hall, we prioritise confidentiality and discretion to ensure that our clients' privacy is protected. We understand the sensitivities involved in rural family law cases and work diligently to handle matters with the utmost respect and care. Our family law team is experienced in adapting our services to meet the specific needs of rural clients. From providing tailored legal advice to offering flexible meeting arrangements, we strive to make the legal process as manageable as possible. Family law issues are never easy, and the added complexities of rural life can make them even more challenging. At Wonderley & Hall, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, empathetic, and effective legal support to families in rural areas. For more information or to discuss your family law needs, please contact our team at Wonderley & Hall. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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