Dooley Blog

We regularly hear from our clients that they are ‘getting ready to leave’. The decision hasn’t yet been definitely made, but ‘things just aren’t working out’.

So what do you need to consider if you are getting ready to leave your partner? There are many important considerations, some of which will have a lasting impact on your life.

In part 1 of this series, we look at whether the relationship can be salvaged and the impact it will have on your life and your loved ones.

Are you ready to leave?

Many of our clients are unaware of the impact that carrying through on their decision to break up with their partner will have.

Are you emotionally ready? It might be worthwhile speaking to close friends, a counselor or a trusted family member to discuss how you are feeling.

Are you financially ready? Before you take the leap, consider where you are going to stay (if you are the person leaving the home), what your income is going to be and what your new set of expenses might be.

Are you going to be safe? If you are leaving a violent situation, are you going to be in a safe place? Are the police aware of your safety concerns? Do you need to notify anybody to keep your new contact details private?

Is your partner ready for you to leave?

You may not be too concerned about how your partner feels in the heat of the moment, but it may be worthwhile considering.

Your relationship issues may be significant, but it might be worthwhile seeking counselling or mediation through a private counselor, Relationships Australia or Unifam. Although pursuing these avenues may not necessarily result in a mended relationship, it may assist you to develop some starting points for future negotiations, or to resolve parenting issues.

It’s worthwhile noting that if you have been married for less than 2 years, the Family Court requires that you seek counselling before allowing you to divorce.

Are your children ready for you to leave?

It is very important that if you have children you give careful consideration to what kind of information you give them, and how you show emotion around them. We regularly see instances where children are severely affected by their parent’s emotional issues associated with the breakdown of the relationship, more so than the actual breakdown of the relationship.

 
If you are ready to leave, and want to know more information about parenting and/or property related issues, please contact us.

The holiday season can be a time of great joy but also great difficulty for individuals and families living in divided situations, especially where children are involved.

Here are a few points to consider to help you get through the Festive Season without causing further issues in the New Year.

• If it becomes evident that counselling is needed, seek it early in a dispute.

• Do not involve your children in any of your disputes or issues. Your problems and concerns are adult issues; let kids be kids this Christmas and don’t let poor communication ruin their Christmas.

• If you have joint funds and things have gone badly for you, separate your funds until you can consult a solicitor and make sure you are joint signatories on any joint accounts.

• Violence should never be tolerated. If this occurs, call the police asap.

Our firm can assist if you find yourself in need of legal assistance in a Family Law Matter.