News

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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.

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 make blended families work

Monday 12th of February 2024

In conversation with 9Honey Gillian Coote explains how families can make blended splendid.

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?

How to Prepare for the First Meeting with your Family Lawyer

Wednesday 16th of December 2020

How do I get the most from the first meeting with my family lawyer

What is Spousal Maintenance?

Wednesday 14th of October 2020

How is Spousal Maintenance decided?