Binding Financial Agreements Lawyer Melbourne

Free Initial 15 Minute Consultation

Knowledgeable and Experienced

We are seasoned family lawyers who have a deep understanding of the Australian family law system, ensuring you receive the most effective legal counsel.

Client-focused

We prioritise your needs, developing individualized strategies for each client to achieve the best possible outcome, and providing support every step of the way.

Caring and Empathetic

We strive to make the experience of seeking legal advice easier by alleviating the burden of stress and uncertainty of family law issues of your shoulders.

Rowan Skinner And Associates – Binding Financial Agreements Lawyer Melbourne

(Prenup & Financial Agreements)

At Rowan Skinner & Associates Lawyers, we provide expert advice and drafting services for Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs), commonly known as prenuptial agreements (prenups) and post-nuptial agreements.

A Binding Financial Agreement is a legally recognised contract under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) that sets out how assets, liabilities, and financial resources will be divided if a relationship breaks down.

With over 30 years’ experience in family law, our Melbourne lawyers provide clear, practical advice to help you protect your financial future and reduce uncertainty.

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What is a Binding Financial Agreement?

A Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) is a private agreement between couples that outlines how financial matters will be handled during or after a relationship.

It can cover:

  • Property and asset division
  • Superannuation entitlements
  • Business interests
  • Inheritances and family wealth
  • Spousal maintenance arrangements
  • Debt allocation

BFAs can be made before, during, or after a relationship.

Give Rowan Skinner & Associates Lawyers a call to see how we can help you

Types of Binding Financial Agreements

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Prenuptial Agreements (Before Marriage)

A prenup agreement in Melbourne is made before marriage or entering a de facto relationship. It sets out how assets will be divided if separation occurs.

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Post-Nuptial Agreements (During Marriage)

A post-nuptial agreement is entered into after marriage or once a de facto relationship has begun.

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Separation Agreements

A BFA can also be used when a relationship is ending to avoid court proceedings and formalise a financial settlement.

Why Enter a Binding Financial Agreement?

A properly drafted financial agreement lawyer Melbourne service can help you:

  • Protect pre-existing assets and wealth
  • Safeguard family businesses or inheritances
  • Provide financial certainty in relationships
  • Reduce the risk of future disputes
  • Avoid costly and stressful litigation
  • Clarify financial expectations early

BFAs are particularly important for individuals entering second relationships, blended families, or high-asset relationships.

Are Binding Financial Agreements Legally Enforceable in Australia?

Yes. But only if they are prepared and executed correctly.

To be legally binding in Victoria and across Australia, a BFA must:

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Be in writing and signed by both parties

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Include independent legal advice for each party

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Be certified by separate lawyers confirming advice was given

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Comply strictly with the Family Law Act requirements

If not properly prepared, a BFA can be challenged or set aside by the Court.

Give Rowan Skinner & Associates Lawyers a call to see how we can help you

Our Binding Financial Agreement Services

Our Melbourne family lawyers provide end-to-end assistance, including:
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Advice on whether a BFA is suitable

 

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Drafting prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements

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Reviewing existing financial agreements

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Negotiating terms between parties

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Ensuring legal compliance and enforceability

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Updating agreements following life changes

We ensure your agreement is clear, enforceable, and tailored to your circumstances.

Why Choose Rowan Skinner & Associates?

Clients choose our Melbourne family law team because we offer:

  • Over 30 years’ family law experience
  • Accredited Specialist expertise in family law
  • Strong understanding of complex financial structures
  • Practical advice focused on outcomes, not conflict
  • Clear communication and responsive service
  • Trusted reputation in Melbourne family law matters

Our Approach

We understand that discussing finances in a relationship can be sensitive. Our approach is:

  • Calm, confidential, and non-judgemental
  • Focused on practical solutions
  • Designed to minimise conflict between parties
  • Tailored to your financial and family situation

We aim to make the process straightforward while protecting your long-term interests.

TESTIMONIALS

What Clients Say About Us

I regularly refer my clients to Rowan Skinner and Asc when they need representation. My clients have consistently had excellent advice and successful outcomes through Rowan’s representation at Court and when negotiating settlements. These proven results in combination with Rowan’s personal ability to engage with a diverse range of people, ensures that I will continue to refer my clients who need a family lawyer in Melbourne.

Lucy

Rowan represented me in the Magistrates Court and the County Court in relation to very serious charges. Rowan was thorough, professional and diligent in his preparation and responded appropriately to my needs. I was acquitted of all charges.

Jo

I run a commercial law practice and frequently refer clients to Rowan for assistance and advice with family law. Rowan is a family law specialist: this means he is independently verified as having required skills and clients can have confidence in his ability and ethical standards.

John Whelan

I have a Mortgage Broking business with a large number of clients who having varying needs. I have referred many clients who want an excellent Family Law Specialist to look after them during what are difficult times. I have even referred family members to Rowan as I know he will look after them compassionately and professionally. I have no hesitation in recommending him and his services.

Andrew Kostanksi

I am happy to recommend Rowan and his team to anyone needing help with property settlement after divorce. I was worried about the costs that would be involved but everything worked out as quoted. I am happy with the outcome of settlement and grateful for the professional and kind service I received during a stressful time.

Leela Peart

Rowan Skinner was extremely helpful in my hour of need, he provided honest, clear cut advice and direction in a very difficult situation. He works hard for his client . I thoroughly appreciate his help and would strongly recommend him to others who are in need of a good lawyer.

Duncan Syme

I highly recommend Rowan and his team if you are dealing with a high-conflict ex-partner. I worked with Rowan pre-separation because I knew that I was in for an ugly and combative response by my ex-partner. Things unfolded as expected and he applied to the Federal Circuit Court within 3 weeks post-separation.

Rowan saw through the games and motivations of this high-conflict individual from the get-go and guided me every step of the way to a quick settlement of the case. Settlements are always compromises but mine is workable thanks to Rowan’s expert and pragmatic advice. I always felt he had my back and my best interests at heart. Rowan also has a wry sense of humor which often saved the day during the worst of this process.

Rowan was recommended to me by a friend and I have no hesitations to recommend him to you.

Nadine Zacharias

FAQs

Binding Financial Agreement FAQs

What is a Binding Financial Agreement?
A Binding Financial Agreement is a legal document that sets out how assets and finances will be divided if a relationship breaks down.
Is a prenup legally binding in Australia?
Yes, if it complies with strict legal requirements under Australian family law and both parties receive independent legal advice.
Can a Binding Financial Agreement be challenged?
Yes. It can be challenged if it was not properly prepared, if there was pressure or unfairness, or if legal requirements were not met.
Do I need a lawyer for a BFA?
Yes. Each party must receive independent legal advice for the agreement to be legally enforceable.
When should I get a prenup?
Ideally before marriage or entering a de facto relationship, but they can also be made during or after the relationship begins.
GET IN TOUCH

Speak With a Binding Financial Agreement Lawyer in Melbourne

If you are considering a prenuptial agreement, post-nuptial agreement, or financial agreement, our experienced family lawyers can help you protect your assets and plan with confidence.

Call us today to arrange a confidential consultation.

Phone: (03) 9995 9155

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