News I feel lucky to have met you and I feel confident that you have my back. Latest News From Coote Family Lawyers Keep up to date with news from our firm and the family law industry Read more about our work, our people, and what’s happening in the wider industry. We share regular news updates, publications and blogs from our expert team of family and divorce lawyers. All | Blog | News | Publications Sorrento Writers Festival Partnership Wednesday 18th of March 2026 Coote Family Lawyers is delighted to partner with the Sorrento Writers Festival for the third year in a row. Common myths about de facto relationships Monday 9th of March 2026 The Australian newspaper chats to Gillian Coote about the costly myths that can leave de facto couples financially exposed in a breakup. How to protect your inheritance from being lost in a divorce Friday 5th of December 2025 Speaking with The Australian, Suzanne Jones, Head of Estate Planning at Coote Family Lawyers, discusses how financial agreements can protect potential inheritances and avoid them being an issue during divorce. Divorce Dilemma: Property & Separation Friday 21st of November 2025 In a recent interview with The Australian, Gary Yan discusses how tax implications factor into property settlements during separation or divorce. Marriage vs De Facto: What happens when you separate? Thursday 20th of November 2025 In her article for Onya Magazine, Alexa Plotkin outlines the legal protections available to married and de facto partners when dividing finances and organising post-separation arrangements. Warning signs your long-term relationship is heading for trouble Monday 17th of November 2025 Is your long-term relationship heading for trouble? Speaking with YourLifeChoices - a leading Australian publication for the 50+ audience - Coote Family Lawyers discusses the warning signs that your relationship may be heading for trouble. Doyles Family Law Rankings 2026 Thursday 13th of November 2025 Coote Family Lawyers has once again been prominently featured in the esteemed peer-reviewed Doyles Guide’s 2026 rankings. Congratulations to all our hard working solicitors who have been recognised. Backing the Future of Local Footy Thursday 25th of September 2025 Backing the future of local footy - Coote Family Lawyers Sponsors Balnarring's Senior Women's Team in 2025 I have been left out of a Will. Can I make a claim? Friday 29th of August 2025 When a loved one dies, it can make a stressful time even more challenging to discover that you have been left out of the Will. Nicholas Parker explains your options. Suzanne Jones on Channel 10 News Wednesday 27th of August 2025 Did you catch Suzanne Jones, Head of Estate Planning at Coote Family Lawyers, on Channel 10 News? Inheritance fights - why people are contesting family wills Tuesday 26th of August 2025 In a recent interview with The Australian, Suzanne Jones explains the growing trend of contested family wills and highlights the significant costs involved. The rise of post-split cohabitation Friday 22nd of August 2025 In a recent interview with the Australian Financial Review, Gillian Coote discusses why some separated or divorced couples continue living under the same roof - and the risks to be aware of in such arrangements. CFL Opens New Melbourne CBD Office Saturday 2nd of August 2025 Coote Family Lawyers has expanded into Melbourne's CBD, marking the firm's third office in Victoria. Suzanne Jones with the AFR: Changes in the Wills & Estates landscape Friday 1st of August 2025 Speaking to the Australian Financial Review, Suzanne Jones explains that estate planning is becoming more complex as estates grow larger and personal relationships become increasingly dynamic. Separated but living together Tuesday 27th of May 2025 Speaking with Mamamia, Annelis Bos discusses the trend of separated couples continuing to live together - and the importance of setting clear boundaries in these arrangements Australia's Biggest Morning Tea 2025 Wednesday 21st of May 2025 On 21 May 2025 Coote Family Lawyers hosted a Biggest Morning Tea and raised a whopping $1,600 for Cancer Council. How to protect inheritances when divorce hits Friday 2nd of May 2025 In conversation with The Australian, Suzanne Jones explains how later life divorce can impact inheritance Sorrento Writers Festival Tuesday 1st of April 2025 Coote Family Lawyers is delighted to announce our continued support of the upcoming Sorrento Writers Festival taking place on 24-27 April 2025. Considerations when gifting early inheritances Monday 17th of March 2025 Chatting to Yahoo!Finance, Suzanne Jones, Head of Estate Planning at Coote Family Lawyers, shares some important considerations associated with cash gifting. Conversations you need to have before moving in with your partner Thursday 30th of January 2025 Speaking with the Herald Sun, Annelis Bos, Partner at Coote Family Lawyers, shares the important conversations couples should have before moving in together. Can I get divorced if I'm still living with my ex? Tuesday 14th of January 2025 It is increasingly common for couples to continue living together after separation. But can they get divorced? 2025 Doyle's Guide - Australia Friday 6th of December 2024 We are thrilled to have again been recognised in the Australia Wide 2025 Doyle's Guide rankings. Gillian Coote has retained her Preeminent Family & Divorce Lawyer status and CFL have retained 2nd Tier Family Law Firm status. Gary Yan is also recognised as a Leading Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer in this new Australia wide category. 2025 Doyle's Guide Accolades - Victoria Thursday 21st of November 2024 Coote Family Lawyers have once again been recognised as a First Tier Family Law Firm in the esteemed peer-reviewed Doyle's Guide for 2025 Can I access my deposit prior to settlement? Friday 8th of November 2024 Clients often sell one property in order to buy another, but find themselves unable to pay the deposit on their purchase without funds from their sale. Many ask the question: Can I access my deposit prior to settlement? Keeping Finances Separate Friday 1st of November 2024 In their article about keeping finances separate, Business Insider features commentary from Managing Partner, Gillian Coote. Young Divorcees Wednesday 16th of October 2024 Why are many young couples choosing to separate early in marriage? Calling in an expert, Herald Sun's Body + Soul chats to Annelis Bos, Partner at Coote Family Lawyers, about what exactly is fueling the rise of young divorcees in Australia. Debt & Divorce Sunday 6th of October 2024 In conversation with The Australian, Gillian Coote explains how debt is dealt with in divorce. We're Separated - What's Next? Friday 20th of September 2024 Do I need a lawyer? Pause Before you Post Thursday 12th of September 2024 In his article for Peninsula Kids, Gary Yan, Partner at Coote Family Lawyers, discusses the social media missteps to avoid during separation Why are young couples opting out of sharing their finances? Tuesday 3rd of September 2024 In conversation with Marie Claire, Annelis Bos, Partner at Coote Family Lawyers, shares the pros and cons of separating finances - and how to effectively protect your assets from your partner. How to have a good divorce Tuesday 13th of August 2024 Speaking with the Herald Sun, Gary Yan shares his expert insight into "how to have a good divorce" How to successfully co-parent with a difficult ex Wednesday 7th of August 2024 Aisling Clifford, Partner at Coote Family Lawyers, explains how to negotiate the care arrangements of children when dealing with an uncooperative ex-partner. Binding Financial Agreement or Consent Orders? Tuesday 2nd of July 2024 Solicitor Michael Robson-Brearley outlines the differences between a binding financial agreement and consent orders. Death & Money: 5 ways to prevent a wasted inheritance Monday 3rd of June 2024 In conversation with The Australian, Suzanne Jones explains how to prevent children from blowing their inheritance. Balnarring Junior Football Club sponsorship Thursday 23rd of May 2024 We are thrilled to continue our support of the Balnarring Junior Football Club's U/18 girls team for the 2024 season. Australia's Biggest Morning Tea Thursday 23rd of May 2024 Coote Family Lawyers are proud to have raised a record $1,084 for Cancer Council at our Biggest Morning Tea on 23 May 2024. CFL's Guide to the new Family Law Amendments Act 2023 Monday 20th of May 2024 6 May 2024 marked the beginning of a new era for family lawyers, parents, and most importantly, children of separated parents through the long-awaited changes to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) What is Grey Divorce? Thursday 16th of May 2024 What is grey divorce? Gillian Coote speaks to 50s Plus Lifestyle Sorrento Writers Festival 2024 Tuesday 14th of May 2024 Coote Family Lawyers were thrilled to support the recent Sorrento Writer's Festival - a four day event which attracted 4000+ visitors to hear the wisdom of 190 guest speakers in a beautiful part of the world. How to leave a narcissist Saturday 11th of May 2024 Speaking with Mamamia, Gillian Coote explains how setting boundaries and sticking to them is critical when dealing with a narcissistic ex. Common "Red Flags" you are heading for divorce Wednesday 24th of April 2024 9Honey chats with Annelis Bos about the precursors to divorce she’s noticed during her time working in family law – and the steps to prepare for divorce. Should I sign a prenup? Monday 22nd of April 2024 Annelis Bos, Partner tells 9Honey that agreements such as these are "more common when it's a second marriage or relationship and people are wanting to protect what they've brought in." How to break up with a narcissist Monday 15th of January 2024 Speaking with Body+Soul, Gillian Coote shares her tips on how to survive an especially difficult breakup from someone with narcissistic tendencies. Christmas tips for divorced families Sunday 24th of December 2023 Speaking with the Herald Sun, Annelis Bos shares her top tips to help divorced parents navigate the festive period. 2024 Doyle's Guide Accolades - Australia Thursday 14th of December 2023 We are pleased to announce Gillian Coote has retained her position as Preeminent Family & Divorce Lawyer - Australia in the peer reviewed 2024 Doyle's Guide. Coote Family Lawyers have also retained 2nd Tier status for Leading Family & Divorce Law Firm - Australia. 2024 Doyle's Guide Accolades - Victoria Thursday 30th of November 2023 Coote Family Lawyers are delighted to once again be ranked a First Tier Leading Family & Divorce Law Firm in the esteemed peer-reviewed Doyles Guide for 2024. Why updating your Will should be at the top of your To-Do list after separation Monday 27th of November 2023 In his piece for MamaMag, Nicholas Parker explains why updating your Will should be top of your To-Do list post separation. In conversation with pre-eminent family lawyer Gillian Coote Thursday 16th of November 2023 Chatting with Mornington Peninsula Magazine, Gillian Coote shares what motivated her to set up a new office in beautiful Balnarring. Should I open my own bank account? Sunday 24th of September 2023 The Guardian chats to Gillian Coote about shared finances in relationships and why couples are changing their approach to money. How do I protect my children's inheritance? Sunday 17th of September 2023 Suzanne Jones chats to The Australian newspaper about estate planning in complex family situations to protect inheritances for adult children. How do I get divorced? Sunday 20th of August 2023 What happens when you get divorced in Australia? What's the first step? Do you need to pay for a lawyer? Speaking with Mum Central, Tom Cameron shares the process of divorce in Australia - from the time the application is filed until the Divorce Order takes effect I don't know much about our family's finances: Is that a problem? Thursday 20th of July 2023 In her article for Onya Magazine, Katherine Kennedy explains why lack of involvement in shared finances won't put you at a disadvantage when it comes to resolving a financial settlement. My spouse left me when I was in my 60s Saturday 15th of July 2023 Navigating the complexities of grey divorce - Speaking with Mamamia Gillian Coote explains that couples who divorce later in life can be faced with a unique set of challenges Balnarring Thunder Junior Football Club Sponsorship Thursday 29th of June 2023 Playing our role in youth sports How can I co-parent with an uncooperative ex? Saturday 24th of June 2023 In her article for Mum Central, Annelis Bos explains how to overcome the challenges of co-parenting with an uncooperative ex. Gifting adult children assets from your estate Tuesday 20th of June 2023 Suzanne Jones chats to The Age about early inheritances for first home buyers Rent crisis forcing Aussies to live with the ex: 'Really toxic' Friday 16th of June 2023 Surging rent prices and the rising cost of living has forced Aussies to keep living with their ex Common Co-Parenting Schedules and How to Pick the Best Option For Your Family Sunday 11th of June 2023 What are the most common co-parenting schedules parents use? How To Escape Your Ex's Debt When You Break Up Wednesday 7th of June 2023 How can I avoid my ex's debt? Speaking with Body+Soul publication, Partner Gary Yan explains how to avoid being burdened with an ex-spouse's debt. I have lost my Certificate of Title - What do I do? Thursday 18th of May 2023 I have turned the house upside down and can't find my Certificate of Title. What do I do? How to avoid CGT on deceased estate property Friday 21st of April 2023 How can you avoid Capital Gains Tax on deceased estate property? Suzanne Jones shares her advice on avoiding CGT in an article written for Accountants Daily. What is child support? Monday 27th of March 2023 What is child support and how do child support agreements operate? Separated but still living together Friday 10th of March 2023 Gillian Coote tells Mamamia that it's become increasingly common for separated couples to continue living together. You can read Gillian's expert advice in the full Mamamia article here. Separation and Social Media Tuesday 28th of February 2023 Did you know that there are certain types of social media content that can be used as evidence in Court? In her article for Bounty Parents, Gillian Coote explains why separation and social media is a doomed coupling. Testamentary Trusts Friday 24th of February 2023 In her article published by Accountants Daily, Suzanne Jones Head of Wills & Estates explains what a Testamentary Trust is and how they can be an attractive option for beneficiaries incurring high personal tax rates. Power imbalances Thursday 23rd of February 2023 Does your partner have more say than you? In her article for body+soul Annelis Bos explains how to spot power imbalances in your relationship (and correct them). When not to lean on your friends during separation Tuesday 21st of February 2023 "Just because your friend or neighbour's property was divided 70/30, or they received an additional lump sum, does not mean you will get the same" writes Gillian Coote, Managing Partner of Coote Family Lawyers . The rise of pet-nups Friday 17th of February 2023 The rise of pet-nups: Who gets to keep the dog after a separation or divorce? What are pre-action procedures? Thursday 19th of January 2023 I've been told I need to complete certain 'pre-action procedures' before I can make an Application in the Family Court. What are they? 2023 Doyles Guide Accolades - Victoria Thursday 15th of December 2022 Coote Family Lawyers are delighted to once again be ranked a First Tier Leading Family & Divorce Law Firm in the esteemed peer-reviewed Doyles Guide for 2023. 2023 Doyles Guide Accolades - Australia Thursday 15th of December 2022 We are pleased to announce Gillian Coote has retained her position as Preeminent Family & Divorce Lawyer - Australia in the 2023 Doyles Guide. Coote Family Lawyers have also retained 2nd Tier status for Leading Family & Divorce Law Firm - Australia. I'm choosing not to have my kids on Christmas Day. Here's why. Monday 12th of December 2022 Gillian Coote talks to Mamamia about key tips for co-parenting and special occasions My child wants to live with my ex, not me. Will the court consider their view? Friday 11th of November 2022 In her article for Bounty Parents, Gillian Coote explains how much weight your children's views have under the Family Law Act and once arrangements are in place, what you can do to help foster a healthy family dynamic. Inheritances: when and how to start talking about your assets Monday 31st of October 2022 "Trillions of dollars of assets will be passed down to children and grandchildren in the coming years, so how do parents start the discussion?" Suzanne Jones, Head of Wills & Estates was recently interviewed by News Corp Australia for her advice on passing down the wealth. Should you say Yup to a Prenup - 3AW Afternoons with Dee Dee Thursday 13th of October 2022 Annelis Bos was interviewed by Dee Dee on 3AW regarding the rise in young couples asking for prenups as soaring house prices prompt parents to offer financial support. Should you say Yup to a Prenup? - AFR Oct 2022 Wednesday 12th of October 2022 "Family lawyers are seeing more young couples seeking prenuptial agreements as soaring house prices prompt parents to offer financial support". Speaking with the Australian Financial Review, Gary Yan comments on the increase in prenups and what other options young couples (and their parents) might have to protect their financial interest. Red flags to show your relationship has money troubles - AFR Sept 2022 Monday 3rd of October 2022 Gary Yan recently spoke with the Australian Financial Review about financial power imbalances in a relationship, recognising the red flags and how to restore the balance. The legalities of taking your kids on holiday if you're separated Thursday 15th of September 2022 Can I take my children on an overseas holiday even though we're separated? Happiness in the workplace Thursday 8th of September 2022 "Indeed reveals 72 per cent of workers have felt unhappy in the past year" - Let's just say Alisha Edwards, Senior Associate at Coote Family Lawyers is not one of them. If I was married overseas, can I get divorced in Australia? Monday 15th of August 2022 We were married overseas. Can I get divorced in Australia? Signs your partner might be considering a divorce Wednesday 10th of August 2022 How do I know if my partner is considering a divorce? Body+Soul chats to Gillian Coote about the red flags that might suggest a partner wants a divorce Should I move out of the home? Tuesday 19th of July 2022 We are separated but still under the one roof. What are the consequences if I move out? Valuing your assets for division in a fluctuating property market Friday 24th of June 2022 We separated a while ago. Do we value our assets for division at the date of separation or today's date? Can I take my children overseas? Tuesday 14th of June 2022 We have separated and I want to take my children overseas. What do I need to know? Caveats in Family Law Tuesday 24th of May 2022 My name is not on the title of the former matrimonial home and I am afraid my former partner will sell the property - what do I do? I've been catfished. Friday 6th of May 2022 My 'partner' is not who they said they were. Do I have an entitlement for a property settlement under the Family Law Act 1975 (the Act)? Divorce Thursday 28th of April 2022 What do I need to consider before getting divorced? What is a Child Impact Report? Thursday 14th of April 2022 I have been ordered to attend a Child Impact Report. What is it and what can I expect? Superannuation Interests in Family Law Matters Tuesday 29th of March 2022 I don't think my former partner is disclosing all of their superannuation interests. What can I do? What is Court-based Family Dispute Resolution? Friday 18th of March 2022 The Court has ordered that I attend a Court-based FDR conference. What is it? Family Violence Intervention Orders Tuesday 15th of February 2022 Police have taken out a Family Violence Interim Intervention Order against me - What do I do? Children's Matters - do we have to settle in Court? Friday 17th of December 2021 We get along and agree on what we want, so do we have to go to Court? Will the Court consider my child's views? Friday 5th of November 2021 My child wants to live with me. Will the Court consider my child's views? Duty of Disclosure Friday 6th of August 2021 What is the duty of disclosure? I've Separated and I want Financial Independence Wednesday 14th of July 2021 Can I open my own bank account? Bank of Mum and Dad - Gift or Loan Wednesday 9th of June 2021 Gift or Loan - What happens if you and your partner were to separate?