Consent Orders

Wollongong Consent Orders for Parenting Arrangements and Property Agreements

What Are Consent Orders?
At South Coast Family Law Group, we understand that reaching agreement on parenting arrangements or property settlements can feel overwhelming. Our Wollongong Family Lawyers assist individuals and families across the Illawarra in formalising those agreements through Consent Orders.

Consent Orders are legally binding orders made by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. They formalise arrangements agreed between separated parents or parties in relation to parenting matters or property division. Once approved by the Court, they provide certainty, protection, and enforceability for both parties.

If you would like guidance on preparing Consent Orders for parenting arrangements or property settlements in Wollongong, our team is here to help. Contact South Coast Family Law Group today 02 4202 6644.

Why consider consent orders?

Consent Orders provide a number of important benefits for separated parties in Wollongong and across the Illawarra:

  • Legally Binding: Once approved by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, Consent Orders carry the same legal force as orders made after a hearing and are enforceable by law.

  • Flexibility: They allow parties to reach agreements that reflect their individual family circumstances rather than having outcomes imposed by the Court.

  • Cost-Effective: Applying for Consent Orders is generally less expensive and less time-consuming than pursuing a contested Court process.

Parenting arrangements

Applying for Consent Orders is generally less expensive and less time-consuming than pursuing a contested Court process:

  1. Living Arrangements: Setting out where the child will live and how time will be shared between parents.

  2. Visitation Rights: Defining when the child will spend time with each parent, including school holidays and special occasions.

  3. Decision-Making Responsibilities: Clarifying how major decisions about education, health care, and overall welfare will be made.

How we can help

Parenting arrangements

When it comes to your children, having clear and properly documented arrangements is essential. Our Wollongong Family Lawyers can assist with:

  • Drafting Consent Orders for Parenting Arrangements: We work closely with you to prepare detailed Consent Orders that reflect your children’s needs and your agreed parenting arrangements.
  • Mediation Services: If you and your former partner require assistance reaching agreement, we can attend mediation with you and provide guidance to help facilitate constructive discussions.
  • Legal Advice: We provide clear advice about your rights and responsibilities, ensuring you understand the legal effect of entering into Consent Orders.

Property Settlements

Reaching agreement about the division of assets and liabilities following separation is an important step. Our team in Wollongong can assist with:

  • Drafting Consent Orders for Property Settlements: We prepare legally binding Consent Orders that clearly set out how property, superannuation, and debts will be divided.
  • Negotiation Support: We support negotiations to help ensure the proposed settlement properly reflects each party’s contributions and future circumstances.
  • Court Representation: Where required, we can represent you in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to formalise Consent Orders if agreement has been reached or assist if further steps are necessary.

FAQs About Consent Orders

Are consent orders legally binding?

Yes, once approved by the Family Court, consent orders are legally binding and enforceable.

While it is possible to apply for consent orders without legal representation, it is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that your agreement is fair and meets all legal requirements.

If one party fails to comply with the consent orders, the other party can seek enforcement through the Family Court.