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Your pre-separation checklist

Going through family separation can be an overwhelming experience.  There are many things to consider which you are likely unaware of.

If you have separated or are considering separation, we suggest you obtain legal advice to know your rights and obligations.

You can book a free initial consultation with Hartleys Lawyers at an office near you.  If you wish to do so, please contact our Intake team on (03) 8415 5600, email us at reception@hartleyslawyers.com.au or book online at:

https://hartleyslawyers.com.au/contact/

When separating, some of the things to consider include the following:

  1. Let your bank know you are separating and that for any withdrawals you require both signatures, not just one;
  2. Take copies of all important documents and keep them in a safe place, this includes birth certificates, passports, medical records etc.;
  3. Update your Will so that it reflects your current wishes;
  4. Revoke any Power of Attorney where necessary;
  5. Turn off location tracking services on your phone such as “share my location”;
  6. Change your binding death nomination for all superannuation funds you hold an interest in;
  7. Change your passwords – bank accounts, emails and any other accounts you may have. Consider if you shared a joint device and your spouse may still have access to some of your accounts;
  8. Keep a record of any incidents and keep it in a safe place;
  9. Change your postal address if necessary;
  10. Change the locks if your partner has moved out (if you can);
  11. Update your rental lease to remove your partner if your partner has moved out (if you rent your property);
  12. Stay away from social media and ensure your privacy settings are up to date;
  13. Sever any joint tenancy with your partner;
  14. Update Centrelink;
  15. Consider if you should make an application to Child Support; and
  16. Consider attending a counsellor to support you through the separation process, also consider if your children would benefit from counselling.

The points above are not exhaustive.  We suggest you book a free appointment to discuss specific advice for your matter, please contact our Intake team on (03) 8415 5600, email us at reception@hartleyslawyers.com.au or book online at https://hartleyslawyers.com.au/contact/

This article is intended to provide general information only.  You should obtain professional advice before you undertake any course of action.

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