Case: de facto relationship, but why would you bother?

Case: de facto relationship, but why would you bother?

In Delaney v Burgess the appellant de facto wife was able to show that the trial judge was incorrect in finding that her relationship with the de facto husband was only a business relationship of boarder and owner of the home, when amongst other things, they had had sex, he had described her affectionately in a card as his “wife”, in children’s proceedings had sworn that she was his de facto wife and listed her as his flying companion with Qantas.

However, after a relationship of 4 years, when the de facto husband had $450,000+ of property and superannuation, the de facto wife was ordered to be paid $15,000 plus costs of the appeal [all of which would be likely to be fraction of what she had paid in legal costs]. The de facto wife had made little financial contributions during the course of the relationship other than board in part because she had a gambling problem. Why would you bother going to court for such a small sum?

Things to Read, Watch & Listen

A Call for National Reform: Stephen Page’s Submission on Surrogacy to the ALRC

Australia’s surrogacy laws remain inconsistent and outdated, varying widely between states and lacking a unified, national approach. In response to the Australian Law Reform Commission’s review, renowned family and fertility lawyer Stephen Page has submitted a detailed and passionate proposal for reform.

What You Need to Know About Separation & Divorce

Contemplating separation or divorce can be one of the most challenging and emotionally taxing experiences in life. If you find yourself at this crossroads, it’s vital to approach the situation with foresight and preparation.

Should You Go to Iran for Surrogacy?

When it comes to surrogacy destinations, Iran is probably not the first country that springs to mind. Yet, surprisingly, Iran’s surrogacy laws share some striking similarities with those of California—a state known for its progressive and clear legal framework on assisted reproduction.

Family Law Section Law Council of Australia Award
Member of Queensland law society
Family law Practitioners Association
International Academy of Family Lawyers - IAFL
Mediator Standards Board