At Watts McCray we focus on guiding you through your separation. With over 25 years experience we know that every person is unique and every person has a desired outcome. We take the time to work with you to achieve your personal goals.

The Watts McCray team has 23 Family Law specialists, of whom 13 are accredited (the highest number of accredited specialists in any Australian firm). Whatever your requirements, we will navigate the family law process with you, giving you options and explanations every step of the way.

What are Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs)?
The term prenup comes from the United States. In Australia these agreements are called Binding Financial Agreements (BFA) or Co-habitation Agreements.

A BFA is a contract for couples who intend to marry, are married or have been married. BFAs usually set out the division of assets should the relationship break down, but they may also deal with lifestyle issues. The agreement often has an asset schedule attached listing the respective assets of the husband and wife. They may also cover child support but this part of the agreement must be separately registered with the Child Support Agency.

BFAs became legally binding for married couples and those considering marriage in 2000. This means the couple is prevented from going to court for property settlement if their marriage breaks down.

A similar arrangement exists for defacto and same sex couples living together who are not married and do not intend to get married. These are called Cohabitation Agreements and became legally binding in 1984.

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Watts McCray merges with Canberra law firm McGuinness Eley
This merger combines the significant family law and commercial experience of these two firms and enables greater economies of scale. In turn, this will enable clients to receive greater value and improved accessibility to our combined services.

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De facto relationships affected by changes to the Family Law Act
Formerly falling under differing state and territory legislation, same sex and heterosexual de facto couples will now be covered by a national system. This change will significantly alter the legal landscape for de facto couples throughout Australia at the time of relationship breakdown.

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