Family Law Consent Orders

Consent orders provide a legally binding framework for agreed parenting or financial arrangements after separation. Clear legal advice and careful drafting help you assess the proposed terms, reduce the risk of future disagreement and move forward with greater certainty.

We help:

  • Understand the meaning and practical effect of your proposed arrangements
  • Record agreed terms clearly and address outstanding issues
  • Progress your consent order application with clarity around requirements and next steps
Book Consult
4.9
89 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

First class advice, service, and communication. I have had the pleasure of working with Velocity Legal for many years across a range of challenging matters and they never fail to impress.

Grant F

Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering professionalism and strategic approach have delivered an outstanding result. Their level of service is nothing short of impressive.

Jack C

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they provided exceptional
service and achieved an outstanding result for our case.

Wan Li

We are an accounting firm that works closely with Velocity Legal on all our client's legal matters… Every client who works with their team is delighted and impressed by the clear advice, efficient communication, and seamless process.

Selina L

I highly recommend the team at Velocity Legal. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional, have an eye for detail and their work ethic is second to none.

Mark P

They provided so much support and guidance through the process and I felt like they genuinely cared about getting the right outcome for me. They obviously know their stuff but were able to explain things in a simple and clear way.

Natalie F

Approachable, honest, professional and transparent. An absolute pleasure to work with.

Bob W

4.9
89 Google Reviews
Book Consult

We Understand What You Are Going Through

Reaching agreement after separation can bring relief, but you may still feel unsure about how to make your arrangements formal. You may be considering parenting arrangements, a financial settlement or proposed orders from your former partner’s lawyer. These decisions can affect your children, finances and future responsibilities.

Unclear wording, missing information or different expectations about how arrangements will work can make it difficult to know whether the proposed terms reflect your understanding.

We understand the importance of getting these arrangements right. We help you review and document agreed terms in a calm and practical way, so you can understand your commitments and approach the next steps with confidence.

Our Services Include

  • Advising on whether consent orders are appropriate for your proposed arrangements
  • Reviewing agreed terms and negotiating outstanding issues before preparing an application
  • Preparing parenting consent order applications covering living arrangements, time with each parent, and decision-making responsibilities
  • Preparing financial consent order applications addressing property, superannuation, and debts
  • Reviewing proposed consent orders prepared by another party’s lawyer
  • Responding to court requests for clarification or further information

Our Difference

Accountability & Expertise

Every matter we handle comes with full accountability. You’ll deal directly with an expert – every time, no exceptions.

In Your Shoes

Understanding your unique circumstances and goals - so our advice is practical, personal, and never given in a vacuum.

Transparency & Communication

We speak your language. That means plain, clear advice - what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

50+
Australian Based Team
4,000+
Matters Expertly Handled
10+
Awards & Industry Recognition

Our Process

  1. Book Meeting
    Fill in the contact form below or call our office to book an initial consult. You can choose between an in-person or video conference.
  2. Get Advice

    You’ll discuss your situation in depth with a senior lawyer. This includes exploring your requirements, goals, and desired outcomes. You’ll walk away from this meeting with a clear understanding of the next steps.
  3. Achieve Outcomes

    Our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve your desired objectives. We work hard, communicate regularly, and pride ourselves on delivering results.
Book a Consult

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Andrew Henshaw
Managing Director
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

Our Directors

Managing Director

Andrew Henshaw

Director

Jess Hill

Director

Rajan Verma

Director

Robert Osler

Director

Seamus Ryan

Director

Tori Kilby

Director

Greg Thomas

Frequently Asked Questions
What are consent orders?
+
Consent orders are legally binding orders that a court makes after parties reach agreement about parenting, property or financial matters. They set out the agreed arrangements and each person’s obligations, providing a formal framework for putting the agreement into effect.
Will the court approve our agreement automatically?
+
No. The court must be satisfied that proposed parenting orders are in the children’s best interests and that proposed property settlement orders are just and equitable. Agreement alone does not guarantee approval. Clear drafting and the required supporting information help the court assess your application.
What is the process for obtaining consent orders?
+
Once you agree on the terms, you prepare and file an application, proposed orders and any required supporting documents. The court reviews the documents and may request further information or changes. Applications can usually be decided without either party attending court. Legal advice before signing helps you understand the terms and their practical effect.
How do parenting consent orders differ from a parenting plan?
+
A parenting plan is a written agreement about parenting arrangements but is not legally enforceable. Parenting consent orders create enforceable obligations once the court makes them. A parenting plan can still have legal significance, including affecting existing parenting orders in some circumstances. Advice can help you choose the appropriate approach.
How do financial consent orders differ from a binding financial agreement?
+
Financial consent orders require court approval of the proposed settlement. A binding financial agreement does not require court approval but must satisfy separate legal requirements, including independent legal advice for each party before signing. Advice can help you assess which option suits your circumstances.
When should I seek advice about consent orders?
+
Seek advice before signing proposed orders. Financial applications generally need to be filed within 12 months after a divorce becomes final or two years after a de facto relationship ends. You can seek financial orders before divorce. Applications outside the usual periods require additional consideration, including whether both parties consent to proceeding out of time or court permission is needed. These deadlines do not apply to parenting consent orders.
What happens after the court makes consent orders?
+
Each person must comply with the orders, including any deadlines for transferring property, paying money or carrying out parenting arrangements. If difficulties arise or circumstances change, seek advice about compliance, enforcement or lawful options for changing the arrangements. Do not assume an informal agreement changes your legal obligations.

Take the First
Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Book Consult
4.9
89 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)