Overview
At Saines Lucas Solicitors, our lawyers assist clients across a wide range of family law matters. Our legal team lead by Natasha Papaelia, combines strong knowledge of Australian family law with a practical and compassionate approach to resolving disputes.
We understand that every family situation is unique. Whether you are dealing with separation, parenting arrangements, or financial settlements, our family law solicitors provide personalised advice tailored to your circumstances.
We assist clients throughout Ballarat and regional Victoria with family law matters including:
- Divorce and separation
- Parenting arrangements and child custody
- Property settlements
- Spousal maintenance
- Financial agreements
- Family dispute resolution
We take the time to get to know our clients, and provide easy to understand advice with personal care and support to achieve practical and sustainable outcomes. We also provide a complimentary 30-minute consultation through the Law Institute of Victoria.
Family Law Matters We Handle
Divorce Lawyers
Ending a marriage can be one of the most difficult experiences a person faces. Our divorce lawyers guide clients through the legal process with care, clarity, and professionalism.
We can assist with:
- Preparing and lodging divorce applications
- Explaining the legal requirements for divorce in Australia
- Addressing parenting arrangements following separation
- Resolving property settlement matters
- Ensuring your rights and interests are protected
Our goal is to help clients move through the divorce process as smoothly and efficiently as possible while ensuring fair outcomes.
Separation and Parenting Arrangements
When parents separate, decisions about children are often the most important and sensitive issues to resolve.
Our family lawyers assist parents in reaching practical and child-focused parenting arrangements. We help clients understand their legal responsibilities and work toward solutions that prioritise the best interests of the child.
Our team can assist with:
- Parenting plans
- Consent orders
- Parenting disputes
- Child custody arrangements
Where possible, we encourage cooperative solutions that allow families to move forward constructively.
We focus on resolving disputes through negotiation to help reduce stress and conflict, minimise legal costs and delays and preserve important family relationships particularly where children are involved.
Property Settlement and Financial Matters
Property division following separation can be complex, particularly when multiple assets, financial commitments or businesses are involved.
Our family law solicitors provide clear advice to help clients understand how property settlements are determined under Australian family law.
We assist clients with:
- Property settlements
- Division of assets and liabilities
- Superannuation splitting
- Financial agreements
Our team works carefully to ensure that property matters are resolved fairly and efficiently, allowing clients to move forward with certainty.
Why Choose Saines Lucas Solicitors for Family Law
Choosing the right lawyer is an important step when dealing with family law issues. At Saines Lucas Solicitors we offer:
- Experienced family law solicitors clients trust
- Practical legal advice tailored to your situation
- Clear explanations of the legal process
- Compassionate support during difficult circumstances
- A long-standing reputation in Ballarat and regional Victoria
Our lawyers are committed to helping clients navigate family law matters with confidence and clarity.
Speak With a Family Lawyer
If you are facing separation, divorce or another family law issue, obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
The team at Saines Lucas Solicitors is here to provide experienced guidance and practical support.
Contact our family lawyers today to discuss your situation and take the next step toward resolving your matter.
Our People
Natasha Papaelia
Family Law FAQs
When can I get divorced?
In Australia, married couples can apply for divorce once they have been separated for at least 12 months and there is no reasonable likelihood of reconciliation. This applies to many relationship breakdowns handled by our family lawyers.
The divorce application is filed with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, and the court must be satisfied that appropriate arrangements have been made for any children under 18.
While divorce legally ends a marriage, it is only one part of many family law matters. Issues such as property settlements, child support arrangements, and parenting plans are usually addressed separately.
Our experienced legal team at Saines Lucas Solicitors provides practical legal advice and legal assistance to help clients understand the process, protect their interests, and move forward with confidence.
Do I need to be divorced before I can work out parenting arrangements or my financial entitlements?
No. Under Australian family law, you do not need to be divorced before resolving other family law issues following separation.
Many family disputes relating to parenting arrangements, property division, spousal maintenance, or financial agreements can be resolved soon after separation, even if the divorce has not yet been finalised.
For example, couples may reach agreement about:
- Parenting plans for their children
- Child support arrangements
- Property settlements or asset division
- Binding agreements
If an agreement is reached, it can often be formalised through Consent Orders or Binding Financial Agreements, providing greater certainty for both parties.
Our family law team in Ballarat works closely with clients to provide personalised advice and help ensure their arrangements reflect their individual circumstances and future needs.
Can I be separated even if I am still living in the same house as my ex?
Yes. In some situations, couples may remain living in the same house after separation. This is known as “separation under one roof.”
This can occur for a number of reasons, including financial pressures, parenting responsibilities, or practical considerations during a relationship breakdown.
Even if a couple continues living together, the court may still recognise the separation if there is evidence that the relationship has ended. This can include changes in sleeping arrangements, finances, and the way the couple presents their relationship publicly.
If you are applying for divorce while living under the same roof as your former partner, the court may require additional information confirming that the separation is genuine.
Our Ballarat lawyers regularly assist clients in these situations by providing expert guidance, preparing the necessary documentation, and explaining the legal process clearly.
Do I need to see a lawyer if my ex and I agree on the arrangements for our children or how to divide our assets?
Even if you and your former partner agree on important matters, it is still recommended to obtain legal advice from experienced family lawyers.
Agreements relating to parenting arrangements, property settlements, child support, or financial matters should ideally be formalised to ensure they are legally binding and properly protect both parties.Our family lawyers in Ballarat frequently assist clients who have already reached an agreement by:
- reviewing the proposed arrangements
- providing practical advice
- preparing legally enforceable documents such as Consent Orders or Binding Financial Agreements
Seeking legal assistance early can help avoid future disputes and ensure that agreements reflect each party’s interests, financial circumstances, and future needs.
At Saines Lucas Solicitors, our family law services focus on helping families resolve matters efficiently while ensuring clients feel supported throughout the process.