Separation Strategy Session Separation Strategy Session Separation Strategy Session Separation Strategy Session

Separation Strategy Session
A Private, Director-Led Strategy Session for Separation
A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation .
This is not a standard legal consultation.
Separation is one of the most significant financial, legal and personal decisions you will ever make.
The decisions made in the first weeks and months can shape parenting arrangements, financial outcomes and future legal costs for years to come. Unfortunately, many people make important decisions before they fully understand their rights, obligations and options.
The Separation Strategy Session is a focused two-hour strategy session with Lauren Patford-Smith, Director of Patford-Smith Legal Services. Designed for individuals who are considering separation, have recently separated, or are facing a complex family law situation, the Session provides strategic clarity before major decisions are made.
Early strategic advice often reduces unnecessary conflict, protects children from ongoing disputes, and may save thousands of dollars in avoidable legal costs. This is where your separation begins with clarity, strategy and a plan.
Why We Created the strategy session
Many people seek legal advice only after conflict has escalated. By that stage, positions have hardened, communication has broken down, mistakes have been made and stress levels are high.
The Separation Strategy Session was created to offer something different. Rather than simply answering legal questions, we work with you to develop a clear strategy tailored to your circumstances, goals and priorities.
Whether you are considering separation, preparing for a difficult conversation, navigating a recent separation or dealing with a high-conflict situation, this session is designed to provide clarity and direction. You leave with practical advice, a personalised roadmap and a greater understanding of your options moving forward.
A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation .
ideal for
people...
Many clients tell us they feel stuck between too much information online and not enough information about their own situation.
The Separation Strategy Session bridges that gap.
- Who are considering separation but have not yet taken steps
- Have a family trust, business or complex financial structure
- Have recently separated and want to understand their options
- Are concerned about family violence, coercive control or safety issues
- Want to avoid costly mistakes in the early stages of separation
- Need advice regarding property settlement
- Feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin
What we cover
Parenting Arrangements
- Parenting & care arrangements
- Children’s developmental needs
- Communication between parents
- Schooling and educational issues
- Relocation concerns
- Family violence considerations
- Child-focused decision making
- Practical co-parenting strategies
Property settlement
-
Assets and liabilities
-
The family home
-
Superannuation
-
Trust structures
-
Businesses and self-employment
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Financial disclosure obligations
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Potential settlement pathways
-
Immediate financial considerations
risk management
-
Family violence concerns
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Urgent parenting issues
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Financial control or coercion
-
Asset protection strategies
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Urgent court applications
-
Safety planning
resolution pathways
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Lawyer-assisted negotiation
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Family Dispute Resolution
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Mediation
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Collaborative Practice
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Parenting Coordination
-
Litigation
A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation .
what makes
this different?
Most legal consultations focus on the immediate issue.
The Separation Strategy Session focuses on the bigger picture. Rather than leaving with more
questions than answers, you leave with:
- A clearer understanding of your legal position
- A personalised strategy
- Practical next steps
- Greater confidence in your decision-making
- An understanding of likely timeframes and processes
- A roadmap for moving forward
This session is designed to help you feel informed, prepared and in control. Many clients tell us that this session provides more clarity and direction than months of online research, well-meaning advice
from family and friends, or multiple shorter appointments.

Why us?

Clear Advice
Helping you understand your rights, responsibilities and options.

steady guidance
Providing practical support and strategic direction.

genuine care
Recognising that separation affects real people, real children and real futures.
A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation .
investment
$2,000 plus GST
A private, director-led strategy session designed to provide clarity, direction and a personalised roadmap before major decisions are made.
investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment. investment.
Do I need to have separated already?
No. Many clients book a Separation Strategy Session while they are still considering separation and want to understand their options before taking any action.
Will I receive legal advice?
Yes. The session includes advice tailored to your circumstances and strategic guidance regarding the options available to you.
Can this be completed online?
Yes. The Separation Strategy Session can be conducted in person or via secure video conference for clients located anywhere in Australia.
What happens after the Session?
Some clients require ongoing legal representation. Others move into mediation, Family Dispute Resolution, Collaborative Practice or Parenting Coordination. Some simply need clarity and a plan.
A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation . A private, director-led strategy session for separation .

book your
separation strategy
session today
Contact Patford-Smith Legal Services on (03) 9727 7000 or complete our online enquiry form to arrange your appointment.
