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Lawyers, costs & legal aid

It is a good idea to speak to a lawyer experienced in family law before making any important decisions. A lawyer can:

  • explain what you are entitled to, your responsibilities, obligations and rights 
  • advise you about your situation, which may involve complicated legal issues
  • tell you about issues you may not have thought about
  • help you to negotiate in a dispute.

Do not rely on family and friends for legal advice.

Running your own family law case

You can represent yourself in court, but it's not easy. You need to know about the law and the court process. You will need to prepare and research well before filing court documents and presenting a case in court.

The Family Law Courts website (link below) has information for people who are representing themselves. Victoria Legal Aid also has:

  • a free publication called 'How to run your family law case' (see link below)
  • free workshops on running your case in the family law courts – see 'Workshops' (link below).

Costs

In family law cases you usually pay your own legal costs and court fees. Cost orders can be made in some circumstances.

Getting legal assistance

If you need a lawyer, but cannot afford to pay, you may be eligible for legal assistance. See 'Funding cases' (link below).

More information

Funding cases

Workshops

Related publications

Child support and parentage testing

How to run your family law case

The role of an independent children’s lawyer

You and family law: a short guide

Related websites

Family Law Courts (new window)