Sydney’s Leading Specialist Family Law Firm

Family Court hearing duration varies by case type and complexity. Procedural hearings typically last 15-30 minutes, while interim hearings may take several hours to a full day. Final hearings often span 1-5 days and are scheduled 12-24 months after filing. Overall case resolution ranges from 6 months to 2 years depending on negotiations, complexity, court availability, and whether matters are contested.

Key timeframes: 

• Procedural hearings: 15-30 minutes 

• Interim hearings: Several hours to 1 day

• Final hearings: 1-5 days 

• Total case duration: 6 months to 2 years

Complex contested matters requiring evidence and cross-examination take significantly longer than straightforward uncontested cases.

Norton Law Group specialises in all major family law areas with Accredited Family Law Specialists on our team.

Our practice areas include:

• Separation and divorce

• Parenting arrangements and child custody

• Property and financial settlements

• Spousal maintenance

• Child support

•  International family law and child abduction

•  Family violence and ADVOs

•  Collaborative family law

We handle both straightforward and complex matters through litigation or collaborative approaches, providing strategic legal representation focused on achieving fair, practical outcomes for families.

We also specialise in international family law matters including cross jurisdiction property settlements, international relocations and international divorce. 

Hire a family law solicitor as soon as relationship changes occur or family disputes arise. Early legal advice protects your rights and prevents complications.

Key situations requiring legal representation:

• Before or during separation proceedings

• Parenting arrangement disputes or child custody matters

• Property settlement negotiations

• Drafting Binding Financial Agreements

• Family violence or protection order situations

• Court proceedings initiated or anticipated

• Financial disclosure requirement

• Mediation and negotiations.

Early engagement allows solicitors to provide strategic advice, understand your legal position, and guide decision-making before issues escalate. Acting promptly often results in faster, more cost-effective resolutions while protecting your interests from the outset.

Family law governs legal issues arising from family relationships, including marriage, de facto partnerships, separation, and divorce in Australia.

Key areas covered include:

• Divorce and separation proceedings

• Parenting arrangements and child custody

• Property settlements and asset division

• Spousal maintenance and financial support

• Child support obligations

• Family violence protection orders

• Binding Financial Agreements

• International child abduction matters

Australian family law applies to married couples, de facto relationships, and same-sex partnerships. It focuses on protecting children's best interests, ensuring fair property division, and providing legal frameworks for resolving family disputes through courts or alternative dispute resolution methods.

Family law matter resolution timeframes vary based on complexity and whether parties reach agreement outside court.

Typical timeframes:

• Amicable settlements: 3-6 months through negotiation or mediation

• Contested court matters: 12-24 months or longer

• Urgent applications: Within weeks depending on circumstances

• Simple divorce applications: 1-2 months 

Factors affecting duration:

• Cooperation between parties

• Complexity of assets or parenting issues

• Court availability and scheduling

• Need for expert valuations or reports

Matters resolved through alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation typically conclude faster and cost less than contested court proceedings. Early legal advice and strategic planning help expedite the process.