Separation is hard enough without guessing what you are entitled to. Michael gives you an honest view of your realistic range early, then gets your settlement agreed, formalised and final — without a courtroom, in most cases.
Whether you and your former partner broadly agree or are far apart, the goal is the same: a settlement that is fair, that is final, and that is made legally binding — so both of you can move forward. Michael handles every settlement personally, from the first conversation to sealed orders.
Many Hills District settlements involve more than a house and super — a family business, an investment property mid-build, a development, a trust. Michael's background as a civil engineer means he reads valuations, build costs and business accounts first-hand rather than taking them on faith. When the numbers are the negotiation, that literacy is worth real money.
Michael acts for separating couples across the Hills District — Castle Hill, Kellyville, Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Rouse Hill and the surrounding suburbs — and throughout Sydney and NSW, in person at the Norwest office, by phone or by video.
Outline your situation. Michael explains how the process works, what the realistic issues are, and what your next step should be — including any time limits that apply to you.
A clear view of the asset pool and your realistic range, with a written costs agreement before any work begins — fixed fees for consent orders where the scope allows.
Michael negotiates the settlement and formalises it properly — consent orders approved on the papers in most cases, so the agreement is binding and you can both move forward.
No. Australian family law does not divide property equally by default.
The Court's approach is to identify what you both own and owe, weigh the contributions each of you made — financial and non-financial, including caring for children and the home — consider each person's current and future circumstances, and check that the overall outcome is just and equitable.
In appropriate cases, the economic effect of family violence, including financial abuse, may also be relevant.
Honest early advice about your realistic range is often the most valuable thing you can get.
No. If you and your former partner agree, the agreement can usually be formalised through consent orders — approved by the Court, usually on the papers and without anyone attending court — or, in some situations, through a binding financial agreement.
An informal handshake deal is not a legally final family law property settlement and can leave both of you exposed later. Formalising the agreement properly is usually simpler and cheaper than people expect.
Yes. Property settlement applications must generally be made within 12 months after a divorce order takes effect, or within two years of separation for de facto couples.
The Court can grant permission to apply out of time in limited circumstances, but relying on that is risky. It is far better to get advice early, even if you are parting on good terms.
Superannuation is treated as property for settlement purposes and can be divided between you — known as superannuation splitting. It usually stays within the superannuation system until a condition of release is met.
Superannuation is often one of the largest assets in the pool and one of the most commonly overlooked. Michael makes sure it is valued and dealt with properly alongside the home, savings, liabilities and any business interests.
What the law actually says about the family home when a relationship ends — and the practical options.
Read article →How family law now treats pets in a property settlement, and what separating couples should know.
Read article →The information on this page is general in nature and is not legal advice. What is right for you depends on your circumstances. For advice about your situation, contact Michael Campbell Law.
The first conversation is a free 15-minute phone call — no cost, no obligation, and an honest answer about your realistic range and next steps.