Family Law
At Evans & Wislang, we understand that family law matters are deeply personal and often arise during some of the most emotionally challenging periods in a person’s life. Whether you are navigating separation, parenting arrangements, financial disputes, or concerns relating to safety and family violence, our team is committed to providing clear advice, strong advocacy, and compassionate support every step of the way.
Our family law practitioners are experienced, trauma-informed lawyers who approach every matter with sensitivity, professionalism, and care. We recognise the complexities that can arise in relationships affected by domestic and family violence, coercive control, and trauma, and we work to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, protected, and empowered to make informed decisions about their future.
We provide tailored legal advice and representation across all areas of family and de facto law, including property settlements, parenting and children’s matters, divorce applications, binding financial agreements, and consent orders. We also assist clients with domestic violence related matters, including Applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs), urgent court applications, and legal strategies focused on safety, protection, and long-term stability.
At Evans & Wislang, we are dedicated to achieving practical, strategic outcomes while guiding our clients with empathy, discretion, and unwavering professionalism.
Family Law Pathway
Family law matters can feel unpredictable, especially when it's unclear what happens next or how long the process might take. The diagram above reflects the case management pathway set out in the Central Practice Direction, which governs how family law matters progress through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA).
First Court Event
Your matter is typically listed for its first court date within one to two months of filing.
Interim Hearing
If urgent issues need to be resolved along the way — such as parenting arrangements or financial support — an interim hearing may be listed before the matter proceeds further.
Dispute Resolution
Most matters are given the opportunity to resolve by agreement through mediation, a Conciliation Conference, or Family Dispute Resolution, generally within five months of filing. This is often where matters settle without the need for further Court involvement.
Mention
If the matter hasn't resolved, it returns to Court for a mention, where progress is reviewed and further directions are made.
Compliance and Readiness Hearing
Around six months from filing, the Court checks that both parties are properly prepared for trial, including whether a trial plan has been agreed.
Trial Management Hearing
Where required, this hearing finalises the arrangements for trial.
Final Hearing
If the matter still hasn't resolved, it proceeds to a final hearing, with the Court aiming to list this within twelve months of filing.
Wherever possible, our approach is to help clients resolve matters by consent, avoiding the cost, delay, and emotional toll of a full trial. Where agreement isn't possible, we're well prepared to represent our clients at every stage of the Court process, through to a final hearing.