Jessica Black

Senior Lawyer

I’m Jessica. I have worked exclusively in family law since I was admitted to practice in 2012.

I am a passionate lawyer and I offer my clients an empathetic and caring approach. I am committed to achieving the best possible outcome for all of my clients with a focus on meeting the best interests of children.

I practise in all areas of family law including property settlements, parenting matters, intervention orders, divorce and financial agreements. I have a particular interest in complex parenting matters.

I promote cost-effective and negotiated outcomes where possible and if required, I am an experienced litigator and I regularly appear and instruct Counsel in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria (Intervention Order matters).

I pride myself on my ability to provide my clients with sensible and straightforward advice in an approachable and efficient manner.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, good food and weekends away.

 

Recent articles by Jessica

When my ex gets a new partner, can this affect our property settlement?

When my ex gets a new partner, can this affect our property settlement?

Separation often brings about a range of emotional and financial challenges. One question that commonly arises is whether an ex-partner’s new relationship can impact how property is divided after separation or divorce.
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Can I use information disclosed during my family law matter for other purposes?

Can I use information disclosed during my family law matter for other purposes?

Documents received and/or disclosed during family law proceedings cannot be used for any other purpose other than what they were provided for. This is due to an implied undertaking or obligation to the Court, known as the Harman Undertaking.
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What is supervised time with children in family law parenting disputes?

What is supervised time with children in family law parenting disputes?

In family law parenting cases involving high conflict or allegations of risk, the Court may make orders (or parents may agree) for a parent to spend supervised time with a child. When determining whether an order for supervised time is appropriate, the Court will ultimately consider what is in the child’s best interests.
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Family Court hearings – the First Return Hearing

Family Court hearings – the First Return Hearing

After filing your initiating court documents, your matter will be listed for a First Return Hearing in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. A First Return Hearing is a procedural hearing and, as the name suggests, is the first Court event after you have filed an application to have a matter dealt with by the Court.
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