While it is common knowledge that legal support must be found when ending a relationship, many people don’t know where to go when ending a same-sex marriage (hint: to family lawyers in Sydney). A same-sex relationship is one where both parties are of the same sex.

Since 2017, same-sex marriage has become legal in Australia and so couples now have all of the same rights as heterosexual couples. This means that they have the right to annul or end a marriage with a divorce application. Same-sex divorce lawyers are attorneys who specialise in this area.

They are commonly family law attorneys who have decided to focus on same-gender relationships. It is wise to seek the support of one of these specialised lawyers because of their experience and also because they are more than happy to help everyone. Some members of the LGBT community don’t feel safe approaching an attorney because they are worried that will suffer from some kind of bigotry.

While this is happening less and less in this day and age, unfortunately, this can still sometimes happen. Instead of running the risk of finding a lawyer who isn’t helpful or respectful, same-sex divorce lawyers can instead be hired for an all-around better experience.

What does divorce involve?

In the eyes of the court, a divorce does not require that one party needs to be blamed. This means that those involved do not have to prove that the other person was at fault. What does have to be proven, however, is that the two parties involved have been separated for a required period of time.

This period of time is a minimum of 12 months and a day, and this time must be proven. This proof can be in the form of separate bank accounts and lease agreements or in the form of affidavits written by a close family member or friend. In the cases where a divorce hearing needs to occur, the other party needs to be served the divorce papers at least 28 days before the hearing.

Any documentation, proof, evidence or application forms can be helped with by a professional same-sex divorce lawyer. They are experienced in this kind of paperwork and are fully aware of time frames and any worst-case scenarios that can arise. A great same-sex divorce lawyer will be able to work their hardest to achieve the ideal outcome and will also be able to offer support to their clients during an already difficult time.

What else can a lawyer help with?

As a specialised same-sex divorce lawyer is usually trained in all areas of family law, they are also able to help with not only same-gender divorce but also other issues that can arise. This can include child custody battles (including cases of child abduction overseas), child support payments and spousal maintenance. They are able to also help with the division of assets and if there are any disputes about property involved.

Ending a relationship can be a trying time, however, a professional same-sex divorce lawyer is the perfect person to make things as easy as they can possibly be. They are not only able to supply expert advice, but they are able to ensure that both parties are able to be crystal clear with what is going to happen. Having legal documentation and agreements is the perfect way to feel safe and to ensure that further disputes and confusions don’t arise.

In conclusion, same-gender relationships now have the same rights and regulations as heterosexual relationships. While any attorney can be hired to help with a divorce, it can be wise to find a professional who specialises in same-sex divorce. This can make the whole process easier and can make clients feel like they are in trusted hands.