1 Not Getting Legal Advice Early Enough

Family law matters are deeply personal — but they are also legal in nature. Without early legal advice, you may make well-intentioned decisions that have significant, and often costly, consequences down the track. We regularly see clients who have attempted to “sort it out themselves,” only to later realise that important rights or entitlements were missed or compromised.

Obtaining legal advice early provides clarity, direction, and confidence. It can help you avoid emotionally-driven choices that may ultimately work against your interests. You do not need to wait until matters escalate. As soon as separation is being contemplated, you should seek advice.

At Gorval Lynch, we help you understand your options and legal obligations from the outset. Whether your matter involves parenting, property, or both, we provide a clear roadmap tailored to your situation. Getting the right advice early sets the foundation for a more informed, structured, and ultimately smoother process.

2 Not Knowing the Full Financial Picture

In family law, financial disclosure is critical. Without it, you're negotiating in the dark. Many people are surprised to learn they don’t know the full extent of their partner’s financial affairs — even after decades in a relationship. This is more common than you might expect, and it’s often where issues begin.

Superannuation, trusts, company structures, liabilities, and debts — all must be disclosed. Without full and frank disclosure from both parties, the process can be delayed and the outcome can be skewed or unjust.

At Gorval Lynch, we guide our clients through the often complex process of obtaining, reviewing, and understanding financial material. It’s not just about gathering documents — it’s about ensuring you have the full picture to make informed and strategic decisions.

We work with you to uncover the facts and protect your entitlements, so you can move forward with confidence.

3 Missing the Opportunity to Settle Early

One of the most common and costly mistakes in family law is waiting too long to try and resolve the dispute. Early settlement can save significant time, legal fees, and emotional strain for you and your family.

Whether resolution is achieved through direct discussions, lawyer-assisted negotiation, or formal mediation, the objective remains the same: to reach common ground. Mediation is not a sign of weakness — it is a strategic, pragmatic approach to resolving matters efficiently and on your terms.

The reality is that most family law matters do settle. The key question is how early — and how effectively — that can be done.

At Gorval Lynch, we prepare our clients thoroughly for negotiation and mediation. We work alongside experienced mediators and ensure our clients are equipped to make sensible, informed decisions.

4 Consent Orders That Just Don’t Hold Up

It’s not uncommon for separating couples to attempt drafting their own agreement or rely on online templates — only to find the court rejects their proposed Consent Orders. While intentions may be good, Consent Orders must meet strict legal standards to be approved and enforceable.

Even where both parties are in agreement, the arrangement will not be binding unless it is properly drafted in a form that complies with the Family Law Act and the court’s procedural requirements.

Poorly prepared Consent Orders can create confusion, spark future disputes, and result in costly re-litigation. Getting it right the first time is crucial.

At Gorval Lynch, we take your agreement and translate it into precise legal terms that the court will recognise and approve. Whether the matter concerns property, parenting, or both, our lawyers ensure your Consent Orders are clear, enforceable, and watertight.

5 When Everything Else Has Failed – Choose the Right Advocate

Despite your best efforts to reach agreement, there are times when resolution simply isn’t possible. In those moments, having the right advocate makes all the difference.

A strong family lawyer doesn’t inflame conflict — they navigate it with strategy and care. At Gorval Lynch, we don’t just “do court” — we do it well. Our team is known for thorough preparation, clear communication, and a firm yet fair approach to advocacy.

Whether you're involved in proceedings before the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, or facing urgent interim issues, we know how to protect your interests and advance your case effectively.

We are practical, responsive, and focused on results. When it matters most, you can count on Gorval Lynch to stand beside you — and to fight for what matters.

We are based in Sydney CBD, but we can also meet you in:

Binding Financial Agreements

Secure your future together. We help couples create clear and enforceable Binding Financial Agreements, providing peace of mind for your relationship.

Child Adoption

Welcome a child into your loving family. Our experienced team guides you through every step of the adoption process, making your dreams a reality.

Child Support

Ensure your child receives the financial support they deserve. We advocate for your child's needs and secure fair child support arrangements.

Collaborative Family Law

Resolve family matters peacefully. We guide you through the collaborative approach, fostering cooperation and achieving solutions that work for everyone.

De-Facto Relationships

Committed partners deserve legal protection. We will ensure that your rights and assets are safeguarded for a secure and fulfilling future together.

Move forward with compassion and clarity. Our supportive team helps navigate the legal aspects of divorce and separation, ensuring a dignified and respectful process.

Divorce & Separation

Gorval Lynch