How much will my family law matter realistically cost from start to finish?

The cost of a family law matter varies depending on complexity, level of conflict, and the process involved. Early negotiated outcomes are usually the most cost-effective. Matters involving ongoing negotiations, disclosure, valuations and mediation will cost more. Court proceedings, especially those involving interim hearings, expert evidence and a final hearing, can become quite expensive. The most accurate estimate can only be provided after we understand your specific circumstances.

What should I do in the first few weeks after separation?

In the first few weeks after separation, you should record the date of separation, gather and preserve financial information (bank statements, tax returns, superannuation, property documents), ensure access to funds, maintain routines for children, and communicate carefully in writing where needed. Avoid hiding or transferring assets, making hostile communications, involving children in the conflict, or relying on informal arrangements that are not documented.

Will I have to go to Court, or can my matter be resolved without litigation?

In many cases, you may not need to go to Court at all. A large number of family law matters are resolved through negotiation or mediation, including solicitor-assisted negotiation, roundtable conferences, family dispute resolution, and consent orders or binding financial agreements. Court is more likely where there is non-disclosure, serious parenting concerns, asset issues or a complete breakdown in communication. Even if Court proceedings are filed, most matters still resolve before a final hearing.

How are assets actually divided in a property settlement?

Property settlements are not a simple 50/50 split. The Court follows a four-step process: identify and value the property pool (including real estate, savings, superannuation, businesses and debts); assess each party's financial and non-financial contributions throughout the relationship; consider each party's future needs such as income, care of children, age and health; and ensure the overall division is just and equitable.

What are my chances of getting the parenting arrangement I want?

Parenting matters focus on what is best for the child, not parental entitlement. The Court considers the child's relationship with each parent, each parent's ability to meet the child's needs, any safety concerns, the child's views where appropriate, and each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent. Your position is stronger if you prioritise your child's routine and wellbeing, communicate calmly, and support safe involvement from the other parent.

How long will my family law matter take to resolve?

Timeframes vary significantly. Simple negotiated matters may resolve within weeks or a few months. Moderately contested matters often take several months. Litigated matters can take significantly longer, particularly where multiple Court events are required. Matters resolve more quickly when both parties provide full disclosure early, engage constructively in negotiation or mediation, and approach the process with realistic expectations.

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FAMILY LAW

PROPERTY

WILLS & ESTATES

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Confident decisions.

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HOW WE CAN HELP

LEGAL SUPPORT FOR THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER.

Choose the area that best describes what you are facing. We will explain the process, identify your options and help you move forward.

01

Family Law

Clear, practical guidance through separation, parenting arrangements, divorce and property settlements.

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02

Property

Responsive legal assistance for purchases, sales, transfers, leases and property transactions.

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03

Wills & Powers
of Attorney

Put clear, properly prepared plans in place for your estate and future decision-making.

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04

Probate
& Estates

Steady guidance for executors and administrators from the first documents to lawful distribution.

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START WHERE YOU ARE

YOU DON’T
NEED TO KNOW THE LEGAL TERMINOLOGY.

Tell us what has happened and what you are trying to achieve. We will help identify the legal issues and the next sensible step.

I’m separating and need to understand my options. → I need parenting arrangements put in place. → I’m buying, selling or transferring a property. → I need to prepare or update my Will. → A family member has died and I am the executor. →

WHY SSB LEGAL

LEGAL ADVICE
SHOULD MAKE THINGS
CLEARER—NOT MORE OVERWHELMING.

01

Clear explanations

We explain your options in plain English so you understand what happens next.

02

Personal service

You deal directly with the lawyers responsible for your matter.

03

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Your advice focuses on realistic outcomes, costs and priorities.

04

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We explain our fees before work begins and offer fixed fees where appropriate.

WHO WE WORK BEST WITH

CLEAR ADVICE WORKS
BEST WHEN EXPECTATIONS ARE CLEAR
TOO.

SSB Legal may be the right fit if you value direct access to your lawyer, straightforward explanations and practical advice about costs, risks and realistic outcomes.

      
      You want to understand your position—not be overwhelmed with jargon.
    
      You value prompt, honest communication from the lawyer handling your matter.
    
      You want a proportionate strategy focused on what matters most.
    
      You appreciate transparent fees and clear next steps before work begins.

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YOUR LEGAL TEAM

APPROACHABLE LAWYERS. PRACTICAL ADVICE.

SSB Legal is a boutique North Melbourne law firm founded by Claudia Sanchez and Ha Yeon Seo. We take the time to understand what is happening and provide advice tailored to your circumstances.

Legal assistance is available in English, Spanish and Korean.

Meet Claudia and Ha Yeon ➜

Claudia Sanchez and Ha Yeon Seo, founders and lawyers at SSB Legal

A SIMPLE PROCESS

A CLEAR PATH FORWARD.

01

Tell us what’s happening

Book a call or submit a short enquiry. You do not need to prepare a detailed legal summary.

02

Speak with a lawyer

We will discuss your circumstances, explain how we can help and identify the next step.

03

Receive a clear proposal

If you proceed, we will confirm the scope of work, likely costs and documents required.

CLIENT EXPERIENCES

TRUSTED BY CLIENTS ACROSS MELBOURNE.

★★★★★

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NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?

New clients can start with a complimentary 30-minute conversation. Tell us what is happening
and we will let you know whether and how we can assist.

Book a free 30-minute call

CLEARADVICE.

Boldadvocacy.

Practical legal guidance for life’s most important decisions—delivered by approachable lawyers who speak plainly and act promptly.

Clear counsel.Confident decisions.

LEGAL SUPPORT FOR THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER.

Family Law

Property

Wills & Powersof Attorney

Probate& Estates

YOU DON’TNEED TO KNOW THE LEGAL TERMINOLOGY.

LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD MAKE THINGS CLEARER—NOT MORE OVERWHELMING.

CLEAR ADVICE WORKS BEST WHEN EXPECTATIONS ARE CLEAR TOO.

APPROACHABLE LAWYERS. PRACTICAL ADVICE.

A CLEAR PATH FORWARD.

Tell us what’s happening

Speak with a lawyer

Receive a clear proposal

TRUSTED BY CLIENTS ACROSS MELBOURNE.

NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?

SSB LEGAL

CLEAR
ADVICE.

Bold
advocacy.

Clear counsel.
Confident decisions.

Wills & Powers
of Attorney

Probate
& Estates

YOU DON’T
NEED TO KNOW THE LEGAL TERMINOLOGY.

LEGAL ADVICE
SHOULD MAKE THINGS
CLEARER—NOT MORE OVERWHELMING.

CLEAR ADVICE WORKS
BEST WHEN EXPECTATIONS ARE CLEAR
TOO.