Thousands of de facto couples across NSW are celebrating an important anniversary this week, although they might not know it.
It has now been two years since the Federal Government made major changes to the Family Law Act which gives them the same legal rights as married couples when they separate.
Before these changes, the difference between laws from one State to another often meant disputes between former de facto couples could ended up in multiple jurisdictions and courts.
But now, for better or worse, if there is a breakdown in a de facto relationship, disputes over property and spousal maintenance can go to court in exactly the same way as a married couple.
This is a reform that has been a long time coming and will make the personal distress of breaking up just a little bit easier to deal with.
Heather McKinnon
Accredited Family Law Specialist
Family Law
Slater & Gordon Lawyers
