What Happens After Separation
A simple step-by-step guide to your first year — legally, financially & emotionally
Separation can feel overwhelming, and most people don’t know what’s meant to happen next. This guide walks you through the first 12 months so you know what to expect and where to focus your energy.
The First Few Weeks: Safety, Space & Clarity
Your priorities now:
Make sure you and your children are safe
Decide on short-term living arrangements
Start separating finances where possible
Reach out to trusted friends or support services
Get legal advice early so you understand your rights
This stage is usually the most emotionally intense. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed — clarity comes with time and the right support.
Months 1–3: Understanding Your Legal Situation
This is when most people begin sorting out the practical side of separation.
You may start looking at:
Parenting arrangements (where children live, communication, routines)
Property and asset information
Creating temporary agreements around money, bills, or care of children
Recording key dates and information (helpful for later)
At this stage, you’re not required to make major decisions — but it helps to understand your options.
Months 3–6: Making Decisions & Reaching Agreements
Once things start to settle, you’ll usually move into decision-making.
This is where you might:
Work through parenting plans
Begin mediation or negotiation
Exchange financial information
Start shaping a property settlement
Formalise agreements if both parties are willing
Most families resolve matters through negotiation rather than court. Resolution-focused approaches reduce stress, cost, and conflict.
Months 6–12: Finalising Parenting & Property Matters
By now, you’ll likely be clearer on your needs, goals, and what feels fair.
This phase often includes:
Finalising a property settlement
Formalising parenting arrangements through Consent Orders
Confirming child support
Updating wills, insurance, and superannuation beneficiaries
Establishing new routines and structures for your family
If agreement isn’t possible, this is usually the point where court proceedings may be considered — but it’s not the norm.
Emotionally: What You May Feel Throughout the Year
Separation is both a legal and emotional process. Most people experience:
Waves of grief or uncertainty
Guilt or second-guessing
Stress around finances
Worry about the kids
Hope and relief as things settle
A gradual rebuilding of confidence and routine
There’s no “right” timeline, and everyone moves through this differently. What matters is having the right support — legal, emotional, and practical.
Financially: Key Things to Prioritise
Throughout the year, make sure you’re keeping an eye on:
Your income and expenses
Bank accounts and living costs
Child support arrangements
Joint loans, mortgages, or credit
Asset values (property, vehicles, super, investments)
Any financial disclosure required
Solid financial clarity takes the pressure off and helps you make informed decisions.
You Don’t Need to Navigate This Alone
Separation can feel chaotic, but you don’t have to figure everything out at once. With the right guidance, you’ll move through each stage with more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
If you need support, Family First Lawyers is here to help you understand your rights, protect your wellbeing, and find a path forward that feels right for you and your family.
