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.

PROPERTY & CONVEYANCING · NORTH MELBOURNE

BEFORE
YOU SIGN,
KNOW WHAT
YOU ARE AGREEING
TO.

Confident
decisions.

Property decisions move quickly and carry significant financial consequences. We review the documents, identify the risks and keep the transaction moving from contract to settlement.

Book a free 30-minute call ➜

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Clear

advice before you commit

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Responsive reviews

Advice shaped around your timeframe

Fixed-fee options

Know the professional fee upfront

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End-to-end support

From contract through PEXA settlement

Direct lawyer access

Questions answered by your legal team

START WITH YOUR TRANSACTION

THE RIGHT ADVICE DEPENDS ON WHAT
YOU ARE ABOUT TO DO.

Choose the situation closest to yours. We will tell you what documents we need, what the likely cost is and how quickly we can assist.

01

I am buying

Review before
you commit.

We examine the Contract and Section 32, identify material risks and explain any changes or enquiries worth making before you sign.

Discuss your transaction →

02

I am selling

Prepare properly
from the outset.

We prepare the Contract of Sale and Vendor Statement, help you meet disclosure obligations and manage the transaction through settlement.

Discuss your transaction →

03

I need document advice

Understand the
obligation first.

Independent advice on mortgages, guarantees, loan documents, transfers and other property arrangements before execution.

Discuss your transaction →

BEFORE YOU SIGN

A short review now can prevent an expensive problem later.

Send us the Contract and Section 32 with the auction or signing date. We will confirm availability and the scope of the review.

Request a contract review ➜

PROPERTY SERVICES

ADVICE FOR THE TRANSACTION— AND
THE DETAILS AROUND IT.

We can assist with a defined document review or manage the entire conveyancing process, depending on what you need.

01

Buying property

Contract and Section 32 review, negotiation support, finance conditions, searches, adjustments and PEXA settlement.

Ask about this service →

02

Selling property

Preparation of the Contract of Sale and Vendor Statement, disclosure guidance and settlement management.

Ask about this service →

03

Property transfers

Transfers between family members, spouses, related entities, estates and other ownership structures.

Ask about this service →

04

Contract reviews

Pre-purchase review of the contract, title, restrictions, disclosures and special conditions before signing.

Ask about this service →

05

Leases & subdivisions

Assistance with commercial and retail leases, subdivisions and associated property documentation.

Ask about this service →

06

Mortgage advice

Independent legal advice on mortgages, guarantees, loan agreements and SMSF lending documents.

Ask about this service →

A CLEAR TRANSACTION

CAREFUL
WHERE IT MATTERS. EFFICIENT
WHERE IT
SHOULD BE.

We explain the important issues without overwhelming you with every line of the paperwork.

01

Send us the documents

Provide the contract, Section 32 or other documents and tell us your timeframe.

02

Receive clear advice

We identify legal issues, explain the risks and recommend amendments or enquiries.

03

Complete with confidence

We manage the transaction, keep you informed and coordinate electronic settlement.

GUIDE TO FEES

KNOW THE LIKELY COST BEFORE WORK BEGINS.

These prices apply to eligible, straightforward matters and include GST. Searches, disbursements and third-party charges are additional where applicable. We confirm the scope and anticipated costs before commencing.

MORTGAGE ADVICE

From $550 incl. GST

Independent legal advice for a standard residential mortgage or guarantee.

PURCHASE CONVEYANCING

$1,320 incl. GST

Professional fees for a standard residential purchase, plus searches and disbursements.

CONTRACT REVIEW

From $220 incl. GST

Pre-purchase Contract and Section 32 review, credited where eligible if we act on the purchase.

COMMON QUESTIONS

WHAT CLIENTS
ASK BEFORE PROCEEDING.

Property deadlines can be short. If you have an auction or signing date, include it when you contact us.

Yes. A contract can become binding as soon as it is signed, and cooling-off rights may be limited or unavailable. A pre-purchase review allows risks and amendments to be considered first.

Disbursements are third-party expenses incurred for the transaction, such as title, council, water and statutory searches. We provide an estimate at the outset.

Yes. Electronic conveyancing allows us to assist with Victorian property transactions while communicating with clients in person, by telephone or online.

PROPERTY CLIENT EXPERIENCE

A smooth and professionally managed settlement.

★★★★★

“Thank you SSB Legal team for completing our settlement so smoothly. We are extremely pleased with their service as they are well experienced, professional and dedicated in achieving an excellent outcome. Highly recommend them for legal services.”

— Daniel, Google review

SPEAK WITH A LAWYER

SEND US THE
PROPERTY DOCUMENTS.

Tell us whether you are buying, selling or seeking independent advice, and include any signing, auction or settlement deadline.

Book a free 30-minute call

Or send an enquiry →

BEFORE
YOU SIGN,
KNOW WHAT
YOU ARE AGREEING
TO.