From Trauma to Resolution: The Role of Family Lawyers

I interview Annette Lakey, a passionate family lawyer specialising in dispute resolution and negotiation. With over 20 years of experience, Annette understands the pain and trauma that often accompanies family law matters, and she is dedicated to guiding people through the legal complexities, ensuring the best possible outcome with efficiency and compassion. Read further as we delve into Annette's invaluable expertise and her mission to help families find resolution and move forward.

How Annette Became a Family Lawyer, Her Practice, and Her Clients

Annette became a family lawyer after exploring different options following her law degree. She found a natural fit in family law due to its mix of various legal areas and the opportunity to work with people facing real problems. Annette's practice primarily involves assisting separating couples, including those with children, property disputes, and even disputes over pets, offering support and guidance throughout the process. She aims to manage expectations, provide solutions, and help her clients navigate the complexities of family law with empathy and expertise.

Understanding the Legal Profession

The legal profession encompasses different roles: principals, solicitors, and barristers. The principals are the leading partners in law firms, the solicitors are staff lawyers, and the barristers specialise in court arguments. While barristers are hired for complex cases and possess expertise in litigation and cross-examination, solicitors handle more straightforward matters. As a family lawyer, Annette prefers to represent clients outside the courtroom, engaging a barrister only when necessary for intricate issues, as this approach helps avoid the high costs associated with court proceedings.

Explaining Family Law in Simple Terms

In simple terms, a family lawyer helps mummies and daddies who are no longer living together to stay happy and get along as friends, especially for the sake of their kids. They assist in fairly dividing assets like the house, ensuring a positive future for everyone involved, even if living together is no longer an option. The lawyer offers realistic solutions, helping parents understand that keeping the house may not always be ideal and presenting alternative routes to achieve freedom and happiness.

When to Seek a Family Lawyer and What to Expect

If a couple has no assets or children, seeking a family lawyer is usually unnecessary, as divorce can be done online. But if there are significant assets or future expectations, like an inheritance, it's wise to consult a lawyer for a property settlement. It's important to get initial advice from a family lawyer to understand the situation and cost estimates, and finding a lawyer who offers a free consultation can be beneficial. In emergencies, the main lawyer is always available, but a group of solicitors is also ready to address the matter.

Stamp Duty Concession and Considerations When Contacting a Family Lawyer

When transferring properties during a settlement, a stamp duty concession is available, saving you significantly on costs. Keeping the family home offers advantages like avoiding relocation expenses and not having to pay stamp duty when buying another property. Consult a family lawyer to understand your specific situation and consider recommendations and a lawyer who listens to your needs and provides a reasonable cost estimate when choosing the right one for your case.

Deciding on a family lawyer can feel overwhelming. Still, it's crucial to find someone who truly understands your needs to assess your situation and supports you through the legal proceedings with compassion. A family lawyer, Annette prefers representing clients outside the courtroom, collaborating with barristers only when necessary for complex matters. When seeking a family lawyer, it's essential to consult with someone who genuinely listens, provides cost estimates, and can explain the specific considerations and advantages, such as stamp duty concessions, that may apply to your situation.

LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST EPISODE

All Things About Wills And Estate Planning You Never Want To Know

I recently had the privilege of interviewing Rohani Bixler, an experienced lawyer and Principal at Sage, specialising in Wills, Trusts, and Estates. With over a decade of practical experience and a background in psychology, Rohani brings a unique blend of expertise and interpersonal skills to estate planning. Keep reading as we dive deeper into the world of wills and estate planning.

Rohani's Journey as a Wills and Estate Lawyer

Rohani is a wills and estate lawyer who helps people plan what happens to their belongings and loved ones after they pass away. She ensures that their family, including children and pets, are cared for and helps them secure their assets for the future. Rohani has been practising this area of law for 17 years, finding joy in the diversity of people she works with and the problem-solving aspect of her job. She values the personal connections she forms with clients and finds fulfilment in guiding them through happy moments, like creating wills, and challenging times, such as estate litigation.

Understanding the Significance and Complexity of Wills

Understanding the significance and complexity of wills is crucial as it goes beyond the person who is passing. It allows individuals to have their final say and leave a meaningful legacy. Periodically updating wills is important, considering changes in relationships or family dynamics, to ensure the desired distribution of assets. Seeking legal advice for wills is essential to navigating the complexities, such as the impact of divorce, blended families, tax implications, and structuring assets to minimise disputes and provide for loved ones effectively.

While writing a will might seem simple, the expertise and guidance of a lawyer are invaluable in exploring options, understanding implications, and avoiding misconceptions that could lead to costly legal challenges in the future.

The Importance of Having a Will Through Real-Life Stories

Real-life stories highlight the importance of having a will. For example, a woman who went through a difficult divorce and fought for custody of her children may neglect to make a will, assuming she won't die because she needs to be there for her kids. However, suppose she passes away without a will. In that case, her ex-partner may gain control of her estate, including decisions about her burial, the children's finances, and the fate of her assets.

Another scenario involves a person in a de facto relationship whose partner's parents took control after his passing, ignoring the partner's wishes for cremation. If there's no will specifying an executor or decision-maker, ensuring the deceased's intentions are honoured becomes challenging. Therefore, having a will is crucial to avoid such legal consequences and ensure that assets are distributed according to the person's wishes.

Encouraging Your Partner to Discuss Wills and Estate Planning

When discussing wills and estate planning with your partner, it's important to ensure it is done correctly to provide security. Updating your will as circumstances change is essential. Initiating this conversation can be challenging, especially if your partner is reluctant. Finding the right approach, such as emphasising trust, peace of mind, and the potential difficulties that may arise without a will, can encourage your partner to consider estate planning, ultimately saving money and ensuring a smoother process.

A will is important as it safeguards individuals' wishes and prevents potential legal consequences. In addition, it is crucial to comprehend the complexity of wills, as they provide a final say and a meaningful legacy. Regularly updating wills is essential to accommodate relationship changes and ensure desired asset distribution. Seeking legal advice for wills is invaluable, considering factors like divorce, blended families, taxes, and asset structuring. When discussing wills with a partner, approaching the conversation with trust, peace of mind, and avoiding future difficulties can encourage estate planning and ensure a smoother process.

LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST EPISODE

Nurturing a Child's Potential: Exploring Different Parenting Styles

Parenting is a beautiful journey that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. As parents, we often find ourselves seeking guidance on how to raise our children in the best possible way. One of the crucial aspects of parenting is understanding and adopting the right parenting style.

In this blog, we will explore four distinct parenting styles: authoritative, authoritarian, dismissive, and permissive. We will delve into the pros and cons of each style, and ultimately, help you reflect on your own parenting approach.

1. Authoritative Parenting:

Authoritative parenting is characterized by a balanced approach that focuses on setting clear boundaries while encouraging independence and individuality. These parents are warm, responsive, and supportive, yet they maintain consistent discipline. They actively engage in open communication and provide explanations for rules, helping children understand the reasoning behind them. The authoritative style fosters self-esteem, responsibility, and critical thinking skills in children.

Pros:

• Children raised by authoritative parents tend to develop a strong sense of self and decision-making abilities.

• They have better social skills and are more adept at problem-solving.

• They have a higher level of academic achievement due to the emphasis on discipline and responsibility.

Cons:

• The authoritative style requires time and effort to maintain consistency, which can be challenging for busy parents.

• Some children may perceive the boundaries as restrictive, leading to occasional conflicts.

2. Authoritarian Parenting:

Authoritarian parenting is characterized by strict rules and high expectations. These parents value obedience and discipline above all else. They tend to have a "because I said so" attitude, without offering much explanation. Authoritarian parents typically have high standards and may resort to punishments rather than positive reinforcement.

Pros:

• Children raised in authoritarian households often excel in academic performance.

• They have a clear understanding of boundaries and rules.

• They develop a strong sense of respect for authority figures.

Cons:

• Authoritarian parenting can lead to a strained parent-child relationship, as it lacks warmth and emotional support.

• Children may struggle with low self-esteem, as their individuality and autonomy may be suppressed.

• This style can hinder a child's ability to make independent decisions and think critically.

3. Dismissive Parenting:

Dismissive parenting is characterized by an emotionally detached and uninvolved approach. These parents may prioritize their own needs or be disengaged due to various reasons, leaving their children to fend for themselves. They often have minimal expectations and limited communication with their children.

Pros:

• Dismissive parenting can promote independence and self-reliance in children.

• It allows children to explore their interests and develop autonomy.

• It may suit older, responsible children who need less direct guidance.

Cons:

• Children raised by dismissive parents may struggle with low self-esteem and emotional insecurity.

• They may experience difficulties forming healthy relationships and seeking emotional support.

• The lack of guidance and structure may hinder their academic and social development.

4. Permissive Parenting:

Permissive parenting is characterized by a lenient approach with few rules and limited discipline. These parents are nurturing and loving but often struggle to enforce boundaries and may give in to their child's desires. They prioritize their child's happiness and tend to avoid conflict.

Pros:

• Children raised in permissive households may feel loved and accepted unconditionally.

• They often have strong emotional bonds with their parents.

• They have a sense of freedom and exploration.

Cons:

• Permissive parenting can result in children lacking self-discipline and accountability.

• They may struggle with setting boundaries and respecting authority figures.

• Without structure and guidance, children may face challenges in school and later in life.

Reflecting on Your Parenting Style:

Now that we have explored the four parenting styles, take a moment to reflect on your own approach. Which style aligns most closely with your current parenting style? Remember, it is essential to consider both your strengths and areas for improvement.

Transitioning Towards Authoritative Parenting: If you find yourself identifying with a parenting style other than authoritative and wish to transition, here are some steps you can take:

1. Self-reflection: Understand the reasons behind your current parenting style and identify areas you want to change.

2. Learn and educate yourself: Read books, attend parenting workshops, or consult with professionals to gain knowledge and strategies for authoritative parenting.

3. Open communication: Foster open and honest communication with your child. Encourage their input and actively listen to their thoughts and concerns.

4. Set clear expectations and boundaries: Establish consistent rules and consequences. Provide explanations for rules to help your child understand their purpose.

5. Balance warmth and discipline: Offer emotional support and warmth while maintaining appropriate discipline and structure.

6. Be patient and consistent: Transitioning to a new parenting style takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and your child as you navigate this change.

Parenting is a deeply personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, understanding the various parenting styles and their pros and cons can help guide our efforts to become more effective parents. Remember, as parents, our primary goal should be to create an environment that nurtures our children's potential and helps them grow into confident, responsible, and independent individuals.