De Facto Lawyers in Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast
De facto couples have similar rights to married couples when it comes to family law. However, there are specific issues that de facto partners face that make it important to work with a de facto separation lawyer. Our team has been assisting de facto couples navigate family law matters for over a decade.
Do you have a de facto relationship matter under Queensland family law?
The Family Law Act covers the rights and obligations of de facto couples. Our family lawyers will determine whether the Act applies to your case. The first thing to establish is whether the law would recognise that a legal relationship exists. While married couples have a marriage certificate to prove their union, de facto couples typically don’t. The law considers parties to be in a de facto relationship if:
Relationship Recognition
- The parties aren't married to each other or related by family.
- They live together on a genuine domestic basis.
Property Order Criteria
The FCFCOA permits property orders if the relationship lasted at least two years, there’s a child involved, or substantial contributions were made.
FCFCOA Factors
The Court looks at various factors to decide if a relationship exists:
- The relationship's length.
- Whether there's a sexual relationship.
- The extent of financial dependence or interdependence, and any arrangements for financial support.
- The degree of mutual commitment to a shared life.
- The relationship was registered under a prescribed law of a state or territory.
What our de facto lawyers can help you with
BFA
Binding financial agreements require independent legal advice. We assist with drafting and negotiating adjustments to protect your interests.
Consent Orders
We work with you to complete applications for property consent orders that satisfy the FCFCOA’s four-step legal criteria.
Maintenance
De facto partner maintenance: applying for support arrangements for partners needing financial assistance after a relationship break.
Super Splitting
Superannuation splitting laws are very complex. Our team assists with valuations and the division of entitlements.
Parenting
Developing parenting plans or applying for parenting orders to manage responsibilities after a de facto relationship ends.
Dispute Resolution
Finding amicable solutions through mediation for parenting or property disputes to prevent escalation to court.
Child Support
Walking you through the assessment process and negotiating acceptable payments which are usually separate from property settlements.
How our process works
A structured path to resolution, minimising stress and cost.
1. Story
We learn your story, legal requirements, and desired future outcomes, supporting your understanding of rights and options.
2. Strategy
You’ll receive a tailored written strategy covering clear steps we’ll take together to resolve your matter.
3. Disclosure
For property settlements, we help you correctly disclose finances, including accurate valuations of assets and liabilities.
4. Resolution
We facilitate dispute resolution focusing on practical solutions acceptable to everyone, avoiding a rush into litigation.
5. Finalise
Finalising the agreement via court order or BFA. If disagreements persist, we help you prepare for a court hearing.
"Our goal is to navigate you through the complexities of family law with clarity, dignity, and a focus on your future."
Luke Shanahan is the principal of Shanahan Family Law, dedicated to helping residents of Maroochydore and the broader Sunshine Coast region. With years of specialised experience in de facto matters, Luke approaches every case with a combination of legal rigour and genuine empathy.
He is known for his strategic mind and commitment to out-of-court settlements, ensuring clients save time, money, and emotional energy whenever possible.