Fact Sheets
Our fact sheets will provide you with a brief overview of some of the legal matters that we regularly deal with.
Click through the link to view a pdf copy of each fact sheet, and use your internet browser to save or print a copy. If you would like more information or legal advice about any legal issue, not just the ones listed here, please give our telephone advice line a call.
Seeing a Solicitor for the First Time
It's not unusual to feel nervous about going to see a solicitor for the first time.
Many people know when they need a solicitor, however they may not be sure what their exact legal problem is. There are a few things you can think about before you make an appointment to help you prepare, including which type of solicitor or legal service you need to see.
Birth Certificates
The birth of a baby must be registered within 60 days, but there is also opportunity to add details later if you need to.
Where possible, both parents need to sign a Birth Registration Statement for a child, which is then used to produce the child's Birth Certificate. This fact sheet provides information about the ways that a Birth Certificate is officially used, and provides details about adding information to a Birth Certificate at a later date.
Children and Family Law
Understanding the legal terms used in Family Law regarding parenting children after separation.
This fact sheet will provide you with information about making parenting arrangements for your children after separation. It defines the legal terms used in Family Law, and what is taken into account when parenting orders are made by the Court.
Separation
Separating from your partner involves many changes and important decisions.
This fact sheet briefly outlines some of the matters that may arise after separation.
Matrimonial Property Settlements
A matrimonial property settlement is the division of property arising out of a marriage.
This fact sheet provides information about how property can be divided when a marriage breaks down, and the factors that are taken into account during a matrimonial property settlement.
Defacto Property Settlements
A defacto relationship is where two adults who are not married or related by family have a relationship as a couple living together in a domestic basis.
If a defacto relationship breaks down, property that was bought during the relationship or with funds acquired during the relationship may need to be divided. This fact sheet can help you with information regarding the way that defacto property settlements are carried out, and how to get assistance.
Family Violence Orders
Family violence occurs when one partner in an existing, or former, relationship tries to dominate or control the other.
Family violence is not always represented as physical violence. This fact sheet will provide more information about types of violence covered under the term family violence, how Tasmanian law protects those experiencing or at risk of experiencing family violence, as well as information about Family Violence Orders (FVO) and Police Family Violence Orders (PFVO).
Restraint Orders
A restraint order is a court order that can restrict contact between people, or which can impose conditions on their behaviour.
A restraint order can provide legal protection from violence, including physical or sexual abuse, psychological abuse, damage to property or stalking. This fact sheet provides practical information about how orders are applied for, and information about the types of ways an order can protect the applicant.
Caring Relationships
Whilst you can be a carer in any type of relationship, a 'caring relationship' has a specific meaning at law.
Information about what a caring relationship is, and the benefits of registering your caring relationship with the Tasmanian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Wills, Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship
An overview of these important documents, and definitions of terminology used.
Major life events like having children or buying property may prompt you to think about making a Will. When thinking about preparing these documents it's important to know the definitions of the unique terminology used in them.
Unfair Dismissal
What are the steps to take if you believe that you have been dismissed from your employment for reasons that are harsh, unjust or unreasonable?
This fact sheet provides information about what unfair dismissal is, and information about the process of applying for an unfair dismissal claim.
Victims of Crime Assistance in Tasmania
Those who have suffered a physical or psychological injury as a result of a violent crime may be eligible for compensation.
This fact sheet provides information about who can apply for Victims of Crime Compensation, and the process involved in doing so.