The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (‘VOCAT’) was established by Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 with the aim to assist victims in their recovery by providing practical financial assistance for expenses incurred or reasonably likely to be incurred, by the victim as a direct result of the crime within Victoria. In addition to expenses, […]
What is a Medical Treatment Decision Maker? When you appoint a Medical Treatment Decision Maker, you provide the appointed individual or individuals with the legal authority to make medical decisions for you in the event that you lose your ‘decision-making capacity’ due to injury or illness (such as if you are unconscious or are suffering […]
If you are involved in a parenting dispute before the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (“the Court”), there is a good chance that the Court will make Orders for a family report (or a shorter ‘child impact report’) to be prepared in your matter. A family report is a written, independent assessment that […]
The Covid-19 Pandemic and the ongoing fear of contracting the virus has caused us all to re-think our priorities and get our affairs in order. With Covid-19 restrictions easing, it is important to plan ahead and prepare your Power of Attorney now, so that you will have peace of mind knowing that you have someone […]
The process of separating from your partner can be a stressful, confusing, and emotional time, particularly when you are deciding how to divide your assets and become financially independent. If you and your partner are able to come to an agreement about property matters between yourselves, formalising your agreement through a Binding Financial Agreement or […]
The breakdown of a marriage can result in anxiety and uncertainty about the future. The decision to take the next step and apply for a divorce is one of the most difficult decisions individuals and couples are faced with in the separation process. We understand that the divorce process can be time consuming and difficult […]
Going through family separation can be an overwhelming experience. There are many things to consider which you are likely unaware of. If you have separated or are considering separation, we suggest you obtain legal advice to know your rights and obligations. You can book a free initial consultation with Hartleys Lawyers at an office near […]
The breakdown of a relationship between partners, family members, friends or neighbours can result in volatile and acrimonious disputes. These disputes can sometimes lead to intimidation, or to the threat or actual use of violence to a person or a child. Following an incident of this nature, one person may seek the help of Victoria […]
Probate is a grant made by a Court that ‘proves’ the Will of a deceased person and vests title to estate assets in the executor/s. This is the official process that allows the executor to deal with the deceased’s estate. As the legal personal representative of the estate, the executor must determine the assets and […]
There are two types of visas which let the de facto partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia, either temporarily or on a permanent basis: The Subclass 820 – a temporary visa, and it is the first step towards a permanent visa, but […]
The ongoing uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for separated parents. What is even more challenging is the complexity of understanding and navigating the evolving COVID-19 restrictions, whilst at the same time trying to ensure that Court Orders are being adhered to. But what are you supposed to do? What happens if […]
Going through family separation can be an overwhelming experience. There are many things to consider which you are likely unaware of. If you have separated or are considering separation, we suggest you obtain legal advice to know your rights and obligations. You can book a free initial consultation with Hartleys Lawyers at an office near […]