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A property settlement decides how assets and debts are divided when a marriage or de facto relationship ends. It covers the family home, investment properties, farms, vineyards and orchards, businesses, trusts, vehicles, savings, shares, superannuation and debts.
Most couples reach agreement without going to court. We guide you through financial disclosure, give clear advice on a fair range of outcomes, negotiate on your behalf and formalise the agreement so it’s legally binding.
From rural properties outside Orange to homes in Bathurst, Blayney, Molong, Cowra and Parkes, we understand the assets and family arrangements common across the Central West.
Orange · by appointment only
Dubbo · by appointment only
Phone and video appointments available
There is no automatic 50/50 split. From 10 June 2025, the Family Law Act sets out the steps the Court must follow, and couples negotiating outside court should follow them too.
Identify and value all property and liabilities (debts) of both parties, including superannuation.
Consider financial and non-financial contributions, including caring for children and running the home.
Consider each person’s age, health, earning capacity and the care and housing needs of any children.
Make sure the final outcome is just and equitable in all of the circumstances.
The economic effect of family violence, including financial abuse, must now be considered where relevant. Read the government fact sheet →
Clear advice. Real support. People in your corner.
Most family law matters in Orange are resolved without a judge. We focus on negotiation, mediation and agreement wherever possible, and if court is needed, you’ll have experienced advocates beside you.
It’s a common request, but an agreement simply written down and signed isn’t legally binding. It won’t protect you from a future claim as your assets grow, won’t bind a deceased estate, and won’t be accepted by NSW Land Registry Services to transfer property.
To make it final, you still need to exchange disclosure and formalise the agreement with consent orders or a binding financial agreement. Subject to your circumstances, we offer fixed-fee consent orders, so you know the cost upfront.
Usually, yes. Almost everyone has superannuation, which can be split. Formalising a settlement, even one where you each keep what you have, protects your future earnings and assets from a later claim.
Married: 12 months from the date your divorce takes effect.
De facto: 2 years from the date of separation.
Applications outside these limits need the Court’s permission. We recommend finalising property before, or at the same time as, your divorce.
Since June 2025, the Court considers specific factors when deciding who keeps a family pet, including any animal abuse and each person’s attachment to the animal.
Property in the Orange region often includes more than a family home. We regularly advise on:
Complex property pools and trusts → | Recognising financial abuse →
Special Counsel · Solicitor in Charge, Orange, Dubbo & Orana
Julie leads our family law work for clients in Orange and across the Central West. Admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales in 1998, she brings more than 25 years’ experience across all areas of family law, with particular skill in dispute resolution and arbitration.
Clients value Julie’s kind, considerate and compassionate approach. She’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and your family.
Julie is supported by ALA Law’s family law Partners Amanda Little, Rosemary Aloisio and Bernadette Melhem, each an Accredited Specialist in Family Law.
No. There is no automatic 50/50 rule. The outcome depends on the property pool, each person’s contributions, their current and future circumstances (including the housing needs of children) and what is just and equitable.
There’s no automatic rule. One person may keep the home and buy out the other, or it may be sold. The right outcome depends on the whole property pool and each person’s circumstances.
Married couples have 12 months from the date the divorce takes effect. De facto couples have two years from separation. After that, you need the Court’s permission.
Yes. Superannuation is treated as property and can be split between parties by consent orders or a court order.
They can. Inheritances, gifts and family farms are usually included in the property pool, but how and when they were received is relevant to contributions. Get advice early if a farm or inheritance is involved.
It can. From 10 June 2025, the Court must consider the economic effect of family violence, including financial abuse, where relevant to contributions and future needs.
Book a confidential appointment. We’ll listen, explain your options and help you take the next step with confidence.