What to do if I am accused of a crime?

If you are accused of a crime, it is important to stay calm and protect your legal rights from the outset. Do not speak to police or anyone else about the allegation, and do not make any statements or admissions, as anything you say may be used against you. You have the right to remain silent and should exercise that right until you have received legal advice. Contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible, follow their advice carefully, and keep any documents or information that may be relevant to your case, as getting early legal guidance can significantly affect the outcome.

Should I plead guilty or not guilty?

Whether you should plead guilty or not guilty depends on the specific circumstances of your case and should only be decided after obtaining legal advice. You should not enter a plea until you have fully understood the charges, the evidence against you, and your available legal options. An experienced lawyer can review the facts of your case, advise you on the strength of the prosecution's evidence, explain the potential consequences of each plea, and help you make an informed decision that is in your best interests.

Is it possible to avoid a conviction for a first offence?

Yes, in some cases it may be possible to avoid a conviction for a first offence, depending on the nature of the charge, the circumstances of the offence, and your personal background. Courts may consider alternatives such as a dismissal, conditional release order, or other non-conviction outcomes, particularly where the offence is less serious and you have no prior criminal history. An experienced lawyer can assess your situation, present your case effectively to the court, and advise you on the best strategy to maximise your chances of avoiding a conviction.

Do you offer free consultation for criminal law matters?

Yes — we offer a free initial consultation for criminal law matters so you can discuss your situation, understand your options, and get clear legal guidance before deciding how to proceed, with no obligation to retain us.

Do you offer fixed fees?

Yes — we offer fixed-fee options for many criminal law services so you can have clarity and confidence about your legal costs upfront, avoiding unexpected fees and making it easier to budget for your defence.

How does the family law court divide marital assets?

When determining a property settlement, the court considers the parties' assets, liabilities and financial resources, their financial and non-financial contributions, their future needs and whether the proposed division is just and equitable. The outcome depends on the circumstances of each relationship.

How does the family law court make decisions about the custody of children?

The court makes parenting decisions based on the best interests of the child. It may consider the child's safety, developmental and emotional needs, relationships with parents and other significant people, each parent's capacity to care for the child and any history of family violence, abuse or neglect.

Do I receive the same legal protections if I am in a de facto relationship?

In many circumstances, people in eligible de facto relationships have rights and responsibilities similar to those of married couples, including in relation to property settlements, maintenance and parenting matters. Eligibility and time limits depend on factors such as the length and nature of the relationship and the parties' circumstances.

Home > Family Law

Family Law

FAMILY LAW

At Krayem & Co Lawyers, we understand that family law proceedings are often some of the most difficult and emotionally challenging times in a person’s life. Whether you are navigating a separation, divorce, child custody arrangements, or property matters, we recognise the stress and uncertainty that can accompany these situations. While we cannot make decisions on your behalf, our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way and helping to ease the burden that legal proceedings can bring.

Our approach is to provide clear, concise, and straightforward advice about your rights, responsibilities, and the options available to you. We take the time to listen and understand your individual circumstances, ensuring that you feel informed and empowered to make decisions that are in the best interests of yourself and your family.

At Krayem & Co, we strive to provide not only expert legal guidance but also a compassionate and supportive environment. Our team works diligently to manage the complexities of your matter efficiently, reduce unnecessary stress, and advocate for outcomes that protect your interests and those of your loved ones. By combining professional expertise with empathy and care, we aim to guide you through the family law process with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.

Divorce
Parenting Disputes
Spousal maintenance
Child support
Recovery orders
Care and protection matters
De facto relationships
Consent orders
Child abduction
Binding financial agreements (pre-nuptial agreement)
Mediation
Injunctions
Family violence

Experienced Family Lawyers in Sydney

Family law matters can affect some of the most important aspects of your life, including your children, home, finances and future. Having clear legal advice can help you understand your options and make informed decisions throughout the process.

At Krayem & Co Lawyers, our family lawyers assist clients across Sydney and NSW with a broad range of family law matters. Whether you are considering separation, dealing with parenting arrangements, negotiating a property settlement or seeking assistance with court proceedings, our team can provide practical advice tailored to your circumstances.

We understand that every family is different. Our approach is focused on understanding your situation, explaining the legal process clearly and helping you work towards an appropriate resolution.

Divorce
Parenting Disputes
Spousal maintenance
Child support
Recovery orders
Care and protection matters
De facto relationships
Consent orders
Child abduction
Binding financial agreements (pre-nuptial agreement)
Mediation
Injunctions
Family violence

Divorce and Separation

Separation and divorce can involve much more than formally ending a marriage. Questions may arise regarding children, property, finances, superannuation and ongoing financial support.

In Australia, divorce is generally available where the parties have been separated for at least 12 months and there is no reasonable likelihood of reconciliation. Separation may also occur while both parties continue living under the same roof, although additional evidence may be required when applying for divorce.

Our family lawyers can advise you about the divorce process and how separation may affect related parenting and financial matters.

Parenting Arrangements and Parenting Disputes

Following separation, parents may need to determine where their children will live, how much time they will spend with each parent and how important decisions concerning their upbringing will be made.

Where parents can reach an agreement, arrangements may be formalised through consent orders or other appropriate arrangements. Where agreement cannot be reached, family dispute resolution or court proceedings may be necessary.

Under Australian family law, the best interests of the child are the central consideration when parenting orders are made.

Our lawyers can assist with parenting arrangements, parenting disputes, consent orders, recovery orders and other issues involving children.

Property Settlements After Separation

When a marriage or de facto relationship ends, separating couples may need to determine how their property, assets, liabilities and financial resources will be divided.

A property settlement can involve:

The family home and other real estate
Bank accounts and savings
Businesses and company interests
Investments and shares
Motor vehicles and personal property
Superannuation
Loans, mortgages and other liabilities
Other financial resources

There is no automatic 50/50 division of property following separation. The appropriate outcome depends on the circumstances of the relationship and the factors considered under Australian family law.

Obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your position before entering negotiations or agreeing to a settlement.

De Facto Relationships

People in de facto relationships may have rights and responsibilities concerning property settlements, financial matters and children following separation.

Whether a relationship qualifies as a de facto relationship for family law purposes can depend on several factors, including the length and circumstances of the relationship.

Our family lawyers can advise you about your legal position following the breakdown of a de facto relationship and assist with property, parenting and financial matters.

Spousal Maintenance

In some circumstances, one person may be required to provide financial support to their former spouse or partner after separation.

Spousal maintenance is different from child support. Eligibility can depend on factors including one person’s financial needs and the other person’s capacity to provide financial assistance.

Because strict time limits may apply to applications for spousal maintenance, obtaining advice as early as possible is important.

Child Support

Child support is intended to assist with the financial costs associated with raising children following separation.

The amount payable will often be determined through Australia’s child support assessment system, although parents may also enter into certain types of child support agreements.

Our lawyers can provide advice about child support arrangements and how they interact with broader parenting and family law matters.

Consent Orders

When separating couples reach agreement about parenting or financial matters, they may be able to formalise that agreement through consent orders.

Once approved by the Court, consent orders are legally binding. They can provide greater certainty for both parties and may reduce the likelihood of future disputes.

Before agreeing to proposed consent orders, it is important to understand their legal and practical consequences.

Binding Financial Agreements

Binding Financial Agreements, sometimes referred to as “pre-nuptial agreements” or “prenups”, can be entered into before, during or after a marriage or de facto relationship.

These agreements can address how certain financial matters will be dealt with if a relationship ends.

Specific legal requirements must be satisfied for a Binding Financial Agreement to be effective. Independent legal advice is therefore an important part of preparing and entering into an agreement.

Family Dispute Resolution and Mediation

Not every family law dispute needs to be resolved in court.

Negotiation, mediation and family dispute resolution can provide opportunities for separating couples to discuss parenting or financial issues and attempt to reach an agreement.

Resolving matters outside court can sometimes reduce the time, expense and stress associated with litigation. However, court proceedings may still be necessary where agreement cannot be reached or where urgent or safety-related issues arise.

Our lawyers can advise you about the dispute resolution options that may be appropriate for your circumstances.

Family Violence and Urgent Family Law Matters

Family violence can have significant implications for parenting arrangements and other family law proceedings.

Where allegations or concerns about family violence exist, the safety of children and family members can become an important consideration in determining appropriate arrangements.

Urgent legal assistance may also be required in matters involving recovery orders, injunctions, child abduction or immediate concerns regarding the welfare of a child.

If you are dealing with an urgent family law situation, obtaining legal advice promptly can help you understand the legal options available.

Family Law Court Proceedings

While many family law matters can be resolved through negotiation or mediation, some disputes require proceedings in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Court proceedings may involve parenting orders, financial and property matters, recovery orders, injunctions and other family law applications.

Our lawyers can assist with preparing your matter, court documents, negotiations and representation throughout the proceedings.

Why Seek Legal Advice Early?

Family law decisions can have long-term consequences for your children, finances and personal circumstances.

Seeking legal advice early can help you:

Understand your legal rights and responsibilities
Identify important deadlines and time limits
Understand the options available for resolving your matter
Prepare for negotiations or mediation
Avoid agreements that may create unintended consequences
Determine whether court proceedings may be necessary
Understand what documents and evidence may be required

Getting advice does not necessarily mean commencing court proceedings. In many cases, early advice can help parties identify practical ways of resolving issues before a dispute escalates.

Speak With a Family Lawyer in Sydney

If you are going through separation, divorce or another family law matter, Krayem & Co Lawyers can provide advice based on your individual circumstances.

Our team assists clients with divorce, parenting disputes, property matters, child support, spousal maintenance, de facto relationships, consent orders, Binding Financial Agreements, mediation, recovery orders, injunctions and other family law matters.

Contact Krayem & Co Lawyers to discuss your circumstances and the options available to you.

FAQ

How do I get a divorce?

You must be separated for a required period and file an application with the court. Do not make statements or decisions without consulting your lawyer.

How does family law court divide marital assets?

The court considers contributions, assets, and future needs to ensure a fair division. Do not make statements or decisions without consulting your lawyer.

How does the family law court make decision about the custody of children?

Decisions are based on the best interests and wellbeing of the child. Do not make statements or decisions without consulting your lawyer.

Do I receive the same protections if I am not legally married to my de facto?

In many cases, de facto partners have similar legal rights as married couples. Do not make statements or decisions without consulting your lawyer.