The Legal Services Commission recognises the benefits of assisting clients to resolve their family law disputes through processes other than litigation in the courts. However the Commission provides legal assistance in those difficult family disputes where FDR services are inappropriate or have not succeeded.
Free legal advice is available in person or by telephone. Contact our Free Legal Helpline on 1300 366 424.
The Commission also provides advice and/or representation to parties in family law matters including:
In cases where the Court has ordered the appointment of an Independent Children's Lawyer to represent the best interests of the child in a parenting dispute before the Court, the Commission provides experienced and accredited Independent Children's lawyers to perform this important role. See The Role of the Independent Children's Lawyer (PDF, 86 KB) for more information.
amica is an online service that helps separating couples reach agreement themselves about parenting and property issues. amica provides free information about issues relating to separation and can guide people to support services. In particular, amica helps separated couples to reach agreements and record them in simple language on a secure online platform. amica was developed by National Legal Aid in conjunction with Australia’s legal aid commissions.
The Family Advocacy and Support Service (FASS) (consisting of duty lawyers and social support services) is available at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to provide advice and assistance to self represented litigants who are currently involved in court proceedings or are about to start court proceedings.
Where an allegation of family violence has been raised in family law proceedings, personal cross-examination may be banned. Where the ban applies, cross-examination must be conducted by a lawyer. Parties need to hire a private lawyer or apply for representation from the Commission under the Commonwealth Family Violence and Cross-Examination of Parties Scheme.
The Commission works collaboratively with other organisations involved in the family law system such as other legal aid providers and family relationship centres both individually and through the South Australian Family Law Pathways Network.
In addition, the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Unit and the Commission's child and family counsellors provide family law conferencing and general FDR services to clients.
To find out more about family law, see the Family Law and You Booklet on our Publications page and/or the FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS chapter of our Law Handbook.
We embrace diversity and welcome all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.
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Legal Services acknowledges Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and ongoing occupants of the lands and waters in South Australia and we respect their spiritual, cultural and heritage beliefs. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community and pay our deep respect to Elders past and present.
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