Defacto relationship how long

Furthermore, both the legislation and the Courts have acknowledged that a de facto relationship can exist even if one of the persons in the de facto relationship is legally married to someone else or in another de facto relationship with another person. While married couples simply need to show their marriage certificate to prove the existence or the length of their marriage, de facto couples are often faced with the challenge of proving these things if the other party disputes it.

If there is any dispute about the existence of or the length of the de facto relationship, seeking professional legal advice is highly recommended to ensure that you meet the relationship criteria prior to making your application and to ensure that you are able to provide enough evidence if necessary of your relationship sufficient for the Courts to make a declaration that a de facto relationship existed — otherwise, cost consequences may follow. To make a claim post separation under de facto status, applicants have a two-year period from date of the relationship breakdown in which to initiate Court proceedings.

At Damien Greer Lawyers, we have significant experience in dealing with the legal aspects of a relationship breakdown whether it is a marriage or a de facto relationship.

To obtain advice following the breakdown of a de facto relationship, call our team today on It also acknowledges that a person can be in two simultaneous de facto relationships, meaning a de facto relationship does not need to be mutually exclusive. In Queensland, de facto couples can choose to register their relationship, either as a sign of commitment or for other legal reasons.

When registering in Queensland, both parties must be over the age of 18 and one partner must be a Qld resident.

Contrary to being in multiple de facto relationships, if the parties choose to register relationship, neither can be married or already in a registered relationship. A registered relationship ends if either party marries. If your de facto relationship breaks down, the official action to signify the end of the relationship is informing the ex-partner.

There is no need to fill out forms or apply to the Court. Both parties can choose to amicably separate and divide property and assets without attending court. However, if both parties cannot agree on terms, they can apply to the Court for financial or property orders. Partners have a limit of up to two years after the relationship has ended to finalise any property or maintenance issues. Before making any applications to the Court, a couple must satisfy all of the following criteria:.

If you reach agreement, you may wish to make it binding by entering into a binding financial agreement or filing consent orders with the court. See Agreement about dividing property. If you need help, consider going to family dispute resolution. If you still cannot reach agreement, you may be able to go to court. You must apply for a court order about property settlement and partner maintenance within two years of separating from your partner.

The court may allow more time in special circumstances. Find out how you can get help with separation, divorce and marriage annulment.

Skip to the content. De facto relationships. De facto relationships A de facto relationship is when two people are not married but live together, or have lived together as a couple on a genuine domestic basis.