Getting divorced is a specific legal process, separate from sorting out parenting arrangements or dividing property. If you’re in Parramatta and ready to apply for divorce, or just want to understand what’s involved, our team can walk you through it clearly and without the jargon. We handle applications of every kind, straightforward, contested, or anything in between, so whatever your situation looks like, you’re not navigating it alone.
Coleman Greig are available to service your needs no matter where you are located in NSW. Our network of offices are supported by the latest digital technology, enabling us to work with you in a way that suits you best.
How Our Parramatta Divorce Lawyers Can Help
Divorce itself is usually the most straightforward part of separating, but it still needs to be done correctly. Our Parramatta divorce lawyers can review your situation, confirm you meet the eligibility requirements, and prepare or check your application before it’s lodged, so there are no delays or rejected filings.
If your matter is a joint application with your former spouse, we can guide both the practical and legal side of that. If you’re applying alone, we’ll make sure the right steps are taken to serve the application properly.
For a broader look at how we support families across Parramatta, visit our family lawyers Parramatta page.
What’s Involved in Getting a Divorce in NSW
To apply for divorce in Australia, you and your spouse need to have been separated for at least 12 months. The application is lodged online through the Commonwealth Courts Portal, either as a sole or joint application.
Once lodged, the application needs to be served on the other party (unless it’s a joint application). A court hearing is usually only required if there are children under 18 involved, or if there’s an issue with how the application was served.
If the court is satisfied everything is in order, a divorce order is made, and it becomes final one month and one day later.
Throughout the process, the court is mainly checking that the legal requirements are met, that you’ve genuinely been separated for 12 months, that any children’s arrangements are adequately addressed, and that the application has been filled out and served correctly. Most of the delays we see come down to small errors in the paperwork rather than anything complicated about the matter itself.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for Divorce?
Applying for divorce involves a court filing fee, which is set by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and reviewed periodically. If you’re experiencing financial hardship or hold a relevant concession card, a reduced fee may be available, it’s worth checking your eligibility before you apply.
On top of the court fee, if you engage a lawyer to check or prepare your application, there will be legal fees involved too. Every situation is different, so it’s worth getting a clear estimate of costs upfront before you commit to anything. For eligible clients, we offer flexible payment options through JustFund, so cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting proper advice.
Joint vs Sole Divorce Applications: What’s the Difference?
You can apply for divorce either together with your former spouse (a joint application) or on your own (a sole application). A joint application is often simpler, since you don’t need to formally serve the other party with the paperwork, you’re both already agreeing to it.
A sole application works just as well if your ex isn’t willing or available to apply jointly, it just means the application needs to be formally served on them, and there are a few more steps involved in proving that’s been done properly.
Either way, the outcome is the same, you’ll both end up divorced. The right approach for you usually comes down to whether you and your ex are able to cooperate on the practical side of things.
Divorce Doesn’t Automatically Settle Property or Parenting Matters
It’s a common misunderstanding that getting divorced sorts everything out. It doesn’t. Divorce simply ends the legal marriage. Property settlements and parenting arrangements are separate legal matters, and you generally have 12 months from your divorce order to formalise a property settlement, or you may need the court’s permission to do so later.
If you also need help with dividing assets or working out parenting arrangements, our team covers property settlements and parenting issues as well. It’s a good idea to start thinking about these matters early, even before your divorce is finalised, since there are time limits that apply once your divorce order comes through.
Trusted Divorce Lawyers in Parramatta
We know divorce applications can feel daunting, especially if you’ve never dealt with the family law system before. Our Parramatta team, backed by decades of combined family law experience, will explain exactly what’s needed, check your paperwork before it’s lodged, and be available if anything unexpected comes up during the process. Remote consultations are available if getting into the office isn’t convenient. Every situation is different, and we take the time to understand yours before recommending a way forward.
If you’re also dealing with property or parenting matters at the same time, having one firm handle everything means you’re not repeating your story to multiple lawyers, and everything stays joined up.
What Happens After You’re Divorced?
Once your divorce order becomes final, you’re free to remarry if you choose to. It’s also worth keeping in mind that you generally have 12 months from the date your divorce becomes final to formalise any property settlement, if you haven’t already done so, or you may need the court’s permission to do it later.
If you have a will, this is also a good time to review it, since your divorce may affect how it’s interpreted or whether it still reflects your wishes.
Plain English Guides
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Lawyers in Parramatta
Accordion Content
Once your application is lodged and accepted, it typically takes around four to six weeks to be heard (if a hearing is needed), and the divorce order becomes final one month and one day after that. The main factor that affects timing is making sure the application is filled out and served correctly the first time.
Not usually. Most divorce applications are dealt with on the papers, without either party needing to attend court. A hearing is generally only required where there are children under 18 involved.
You’re not required to have a lawyer, but a lot of applications get delayed because of avoidable mistakes with eligibility, service or paperwork. Having a lawyer check things over before lodging can save you time and stress.
You can still apply for divorce as a sole applicant even if the other party doesn’t agree or won’t cooperate. It may take a bit longer, particularly around serving the application, but it doesn’t stop you from being able to get divorced.
Yes, though it takes a few extra steps. If you can’t locate your ex-spouse to serve them with the application, there are alternative options available, such as substituted service or, in some cases, an application to dispense with service altogether. A lawyer can help you work out which option applies to your situation.
It can. Divorce doesn’t automatically update your will, and in some cases it can affect how certain provisions are interpreted. It’s worth reviewing your will as part of the broader process of separating, rather than assuming it’s taken care of automatically.
Yes, in certain circumstances, for example if you and your ex reconcile before the divorce becomes final. If this happens, it’s important to let the court know as soon as possible so the application can be withdrawn.
Contact Our Parramatta Office Today
If you’re ready to apply for divorce, or just want to understand where you stand, our Parramatta team is ready to help. Get in touch by phone or online enquiry, and we’ll arrange a consultation at a time that suits you, in person or remotely.
Address:
Level 15, 32 Smith Street
Parramatta NSW 2150
Phone:
(02) 9895 9200
