Although you’re not legally required to engage a lawyer for property settlement, you also don’t have to take on the added stress or steep learning curve of understanding the legal terms and processes of your case, (there’s a reason a law degree is 4 years!).
Why can’t I be my own lawyer for property settlement?
While DIY may seem like a way to save money or even speed up the process, it’s not worth the risk. The truth is, the legal system is complex, and without the right expertise, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you in the long run.
It is our experience that self-represented litigants can actually make their case worse than if the matter had been run properly by a lawyer from the beginning.
Always seek legal advice from the start, even if it’s just from a community legal centre.
What a property settlement lawyer brings to the table
Property settlement is one of the key determinants of what your future is going to look like, and cutting corners means you’re likely to fall short of what you want. You need someone who’s experienced in the courtroom and knows what to say and when to say it.
Fair division of everything you’ve built together
A lawyer is trained and qualified to ensure that all assets, debts, and superannuation up to the point of settlement are divided fairly between the parties involved.
A buffer in tough times
You may be dealing with a domestic violence situation, be having mental health challenges, or understandably, be overwhelmed by the stress of separation, your lawyer helps you carry that burden. They handle the tough conversations and complex paperwork, so you don’t have to.
Expertise and experience
The legal process has many intricacies, and a property settlement lawyer knows exactly what needs to be done, from understanding the legislation and gathering the right documents to representing you in court in a persuasive way, they are your not-so-secret weapon.
They specialise in knowing legal concepts and how to apply them in your specific case. Being both succinct and convincing are skills lawyers hone over the duration of their careers and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a case.
Protecting Your Future
Going it alone or making legally uneducated decisions can lead to settlements that are unfair or leave you vulnerable to future claims. A lawyer helps avoid these pitfalls, working towards a settlement that’s just and equitable.
Connections That Count
An experienced lawyer will have appeared before most if not all the judicial officers in their area of service. This invaluable experience can streamline the process and lead to better outcomes.
Choosing the Right Property Settlement Lawyer
Family law services can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming. We highly recommend a lawyer who knows what they are doing and can help you understand your rights and obligations.
A good lawyer will develop a strategy that will help you achieve an outcome that is just and equitable.
A great lawyer will also be compassionate, transparent, approachable, and experienced.
All our legal staff have at least 15 years of experience, and our founder, Andrew, is incredibly empathetic because he knows first-hand what it’s like to go through the separation process.
When you’re looking for a property settlement lawyer:
- Read their reviews – are they positive?
- Meet with the lawyer who will represent you– do they feel like the right fit for you?
- Ask yourself if they’re cost-efficient and upfront
Lawyer for property settlement: the bottom line
Facing separation and the subsequent property settlement process can feel like standing at the base of a mountain you’re not sure how to climb. It’s clear that taking on this journey alone comes with risks and challenges and a lawyer is your lifeline.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards securing your interests and laying a solid foundation for your new chapter, reach out to our team for professional legal support.
DISCLAIMER – The information provided in this blog is general and does not consider your individual legal needs or objectives. It does not constitute personal advice and is for informational purposes only. We recommend seeking out professional and independent legal advice from qualified Australian lawyer to advise on your individual situation before acting on any information contained below. Lander Solicitors Queensland accepts no express or implied liability for negligence or contractually for reliance on any information provided.