Family lawyer in Hurstville: what to expect at your first meeting

Attending your first consultation with a family lawyer sets the direction for your legal matter after a separation or family change. Knowing what will happen during the appointment and what information to prepare helps you feel confident and gain clear, actionable guidance right away. An initial meeting provides a structured space to outline your background, understand your rights and establish practical steps forward.

What happens at a first meeting

An initial consultation focuses on understanding your circumstances and defining the legal framework that applies to your situation. Many people I see in Hurstville come to the first meeting wanting to know one thing: what happens next, and when.

During the conversation, the lawyer listens to your background details, identifies key issues surrounding divorce, property settlement or parenting disputes, and explains relevant legal obligations.

By the conclusion of the session, you should have a clear outline of potential pathways, realistic timeframes and agreed next steps to move forward.

Before you come: three things to write down

Preparing essential details in advance ensures your consultation remains focused and efficient. Writing down three core items helps clarify the scope of your legal matter before you walk through the door.

First, note your exact separation date, as this dictates important statutory time limits for formal applications.

Second, draft a rough list of assets and debts, including real estate, bank accounts, superannuation and liabilities.

Third, outline current arrangements for children, including where they reside and how care is shared week to week.

What to bring to your appointment

Bringing relevant documentation allows the lawyer to review actual figures and existing legal arrangements. Families in St George often bring a parent or adult child to the first meeting, and that is welcome.

Having your paperwork organised helps identify potential complications early in the process.

Important documents include photo identification, such as a driver licence or passport, and official certificates like marriage or birth certificates.

You should also bring financial statements showing recent balance summaries, income details, mortgage statements and superannuation balances, along with any existing court orders or parenting plans.

Questions worth asking your lawyer

Asking targeted questions helps you evaluate how your matter will be managed and what to expect moving forward. You should feel comfortable seeking clarity on practical and procedural details during your consultation.

Consider asking who will directly manage your file on a day-to-day basis and what procedural steps apply to your situation.

It is also worth asking about key time limits, how legal fees are structured across different stages, and what communication channels are used for regular updates.

Key family law time limits to keep in mind

Family law matters in Australia are subject to strict legal deadlines that start running from key dates. Missing a statutory deadline can restrict your ability to seek court orders without special permission.

For divorce, parties must prove the marriage has broken down irretrievably by living separately for at least 12 months.

For married couples seeking a property settlement, court proceedings must be commenced within 12 months of the divorce order becoming final.

De facto couples must start court proceedings for property division within 2 years of the date of separation.

Updating your will after separation

Separation does not automatically alter or revoke an existing will or guardianship appointment in New South Wales. I raise wills at the first family law meeting because separation does not change an existing will.

If an old will remains in place, a former spouse may still inherit assets or hold decision-making authority under an enduring power of attorney.

Reviewing your estate plan alongside separation ensures your assets are protected according to your current wishes. Updating your arrangements through wills and statutory wills and powers of attorney and enduring guardianship provides essential peace of mind during personal changes.

Planning your consultation and accessibility

Attending an in-person legal appointment requires checking location details and accessibility before your visit. Planning your journey ensures you arrive on time and without unnecessary stress.

Confirm proximity to public transport or nearby parking options before setting out.

Ensure the venue offers necessary accessibility accommodations, such as wheelchair access or assistive hearing technology, if required.

If travelling to an office is difficult, inquire whether online video consultations or multi-lingual assistance are available to suit your needs.

How Marano Family Lawyers Sydney helps

Marano Family Lawyers Sydney is led by Annamaria Marano, an Accredited Specialist in Family Law with the Law Society of NSW and over 35 years' legal experience. Based at Level 2, Suite 13/2-4 Cross Street, Hurstville NSW 2220, a short walk from Hurstville station, the firm provides face-to-face and online appointments. Recognised as a Finalist in Client Care at the Inside Family Law Awards 2026, Annamaria offers direct advice in English and Italian. Contact 1300 056 674 to arrange an appointment.

Frequently asked questions

Taking the first step to consult a family lawyer helps bring clarity and structure to a stressful life transition. By gathering key details about your timeline, assets and arrangements for children prior to your meeting, you empower your lawyer to provide realistic and actionable advice. Understanding statutory deadlines and updating estate planning documents early protects your long-term interests and allows you to make confident, well-informed decisions.