The family court in Sydney first began as a place of equity to deliberate and decide on issues ranging from child custody, family law, domestic violence, etc. The primary goal of all family courts is to resolve legal issues or matters that occur between relatives. In addition, hearings are usually private and involve only those who have stakes in the matter.
Family Court in Sydney—What is it?
Family courts in Sydney are simply legal institutions established to resolve disputes or issues that arise in families. These issues may be marriage dissolution, child custody, domestic violence, name changes, alimony, guardianship, juvenile matters, inheritance, etc.
Services Available in Family Court Sydney
There is a range of services available in family courts in Sydney. However, we will highlight only the major ones in this article.
Clerk. This is someone responsible for non-judicial activities in the space such as dutifully making arrangements for the scheduling of appearances, fixing trial dates, issuing orders, inspecting and examining legal documents submitted, etc.
File clerk. This is someone who files papers for cases and keeps them updated.
Reporter. The reporter copies whatever is said during hearings. However, times have changed. Now electronic recorders have replaced some. Besides, some families like their legal issues off record.
Self-help centers. Sometimes individuals represent themselves in the cases, the self-help center seeks to assist those individuals with informative materials and training. However, it’s important to note that they do not give legal advice of any sort.
Bailiff. These are security agents in the space that provide security while sessions are in progress. They may be law enforcement agents or people employed by the family court in Sydney.
Mediation service. If you want to resolve matters outside the law, the mediation service will help you and your dissenting partner achieve that within a specific time frame.
Interpreters. Yes, language can be a barrier in the law sometimes. Therefore, you or your partner (non-English speakers) could apply for one before your hearings begin.
Protection orders. If you or your partner feel threatened, you could apply for protection for your overall safety. This is one of the many services you get in this space.
Legal words You should Know
You should acquaint yourself with some legal terms before hitting the trial. It will aid you in your understanding of the issues being discussed there.
Jurisdiction. Each time you hear “jurisdiction”, it talks about the authority or power. A family court in Sydney has jurisdiction over legal issues in the home.
Best interests of the child. Children are awarded custody in their best interests after many factors have been considered.
Standard of proof. How convincing is your evidence and how much do you have to persuade the law to give you what you demand. This is the standard of proof.
Burden of proof. For example, if you ask for child custody, the burden lies on you to prove to them why your request should be honored. You must prove enough to be awarded such a right.
Presumptions. Presumption could either be in your favor or not. i.e., alimony, child custody, etc.
In conclusion, a family court in Sydney is going to involve a lot of paperwork too. Brace yourself for the journey ahead!
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