Often, the first time you become aware that your former partner has taken legal action against you is when Court sealed documents are served upon you, usually by a process server knocking on your front door.
Perhaps:
- You could not come to an agreement with between yourselves;
- You have not responded to earlier letters from their solicitor; or
- You have previously disregarded those letters or avoided service of documents.
Whatever the history may be, court sealed documents should not be ignored. Instead, you should equip yourself with basic knowledge and seek expert advice from an experienced family lawyer.
The Basics
If you have received Court sealed documents, this means that:
- Your former partner commenced family proceedings against you;
- More likely than not, your former partner sought legal advice and then instructed a lawyer to prepare the documents you are now staring down at;
- Those documents have been filed with the Court and the Court has set a court date; and
- You are now expected to file a Response and attend at Court.
The longer you hold onto those documents without seeking advice, the less time you and your separation lawyer will have to prepare your documents in response. Seeking legal advice sooner rather than later will enable your lawyer to obtain the necessary instructions from you and provide you with legal advice and practical solutions. [...] READ MORE →