Separation is one of the hardest things you’ll ever go through. And while the emotional weight is enormous, it’s often the financial pressure that brings people to their knees — leaving them to choose between getting proper legal advice and keeping the lights on.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose. Family law funding exists precisely for this moment, and more people than ever are using it to get the legal support, financial breathing room, and fair outcome they deserve.
What is family law funding?
Family law funding (sometimes called litigation funding or legal funding) is financial support specifically designed to help people going through separation or divorce access the legal advice and resources they need — without having to drain their savings or sell assets while their case is still being resolved.
Instead of paying upfront out of pocket, you receive funding that covers your costs throughout the process, which you repay once your matter is settled. It’s not a loan in the traditional sense — it’s structured around your circumstances and the outcome of your case.
Why do people struggle financially during separation?
Most people don't realise just how much separation costs — in every sense.
There’s the legal side: solicitor fees, court costs, financial disclosure, negotiations. But there’s also everything else that happens when one household becomes two. You might need to:
- Keep paying rent or a mortgage while the property settlement is unresolved
- Find and set up a new place to live (bond, moving costs, furniture, appliances)
- Cover everyday living expenses on a single income for the first time
- Support children across two households
- Manage your own wellbeing during an incredibly stressful period
Without financial support, people are often forced to accept unfair settlements just to end the financial bleeding. That’s how people come out the other side financially crippled — not because the law didn’t protect them, but because they couldn’t afford to wait for it.
What can family law funding actually cover?
Good family law funding isn’t limited to just legal fees. Depending on your provider and circumstances, it can cover a wide range of expenses across the full separation journey, including:
Legal and professional costs
- Family law solicitor fees
- Barrister costs if your matter goes to court
- Financial advisors and accountants
- Property valuations and other expert reports
Living and transition costs
- Rent or accommodation costs while your property is being dealt with
- Moving expenses
- Setting up a new home — furniture, essential appliances, household items
- Day-to-day living expenses to maintain your standard of living
Wellbeing support
- Counselling and psychological support
- Financial counselling to help you plan ahead
The idea is to support the whole person through the whole journey — not just the legal paperwork.
Who can access family law funding?
This is one of the most important things to understand: family law funding isn’t just for people with assets or high incomes. It’s for anyone who needs support to access justice.
At JustFund, we believe that your financial position at the start of a separation shouldn’t determine whether you get a fair outcome. That’s why we work with people from all backgrounds, assessing each situation individually and fairly.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent who hasn’t worked for years, someone whose ex-partner controls the finances, or simply someone who doesn’t have the cash reserves to fight for what you’re entitled to — there is a pathway to getting support.
Is family law funding expensive?
Fees and charges vary by provider, but the right funding partner will be upfront and transparent about what you’re agreeing to. At JustFund, we’re committed to fair and reasonable fees — no hidden costs, no confusing structures.
It’s also worth putting the cost in perspective: the alternative – accepting an unfair settlement, walking away from entitlements, or not getting proper legal advice – can cost you far more in the long run.
What should you look for in a family law funder?
Not all funding providers are the same. Here’s what to look for:
Transparency — Are fees explained clearly upfront? Are there any conditions or fine print you should know about?
Breadth of support — Does the funding cover just legal fees, or the full range of expenses you’ll actually face?
Care for you as a person — Separation is emotionally exhausting. A good funder doesn’t just process paperwork; they check in on how you’re doing.
Experience in family law — Family law matters are different from commercial litigation. Your funder should understand the nuances.
At JustFund, client care and wellbeing support are central to what we do – because we know that getting through this well means looking after the whole person, not just the case. And our
team of family law experts understand your entitlements under the Family Law Act and work alongside family lawyers to help matters move forward.
How do you apply for family law funding?
The application process is usually straightforward:
- Get in touch — Reach out to a family law funder and share some basic details about your situation
- Assessment — They’ll review your circumstances, the likely scope of your matter, and what funding would look like
- Agreement — If approved, you’ll receive a funding agreement outlining what’s covered, the fees, and repayment terms
- Support begins — You can access legal advice and other support right away
It doesn’t take long, and the sooner you start, the sooner you’re in a stronger position.
You deserve a fair outcome
Divorce is hard enough without having to fight with one hand tied behind your back. Family law funding levels the playing field — giving you access to the legal advice, financial support, and professional guidance that helps you come out the other side in the best possible position.
JustFund is here to be your financial lifeline through one of life’s most challenging chapters. We work with people from all walks of life, and we’ll be with you every step of the way — not just as a funder, but as a team that genuinely cares about your outcome.
Ready to find out if you’re eligible? Reach out to JustFund today and take the first step toward a fair outcome.
JustFund provides family law funding to help Australians access legal support and financial assistance throughout separation and divorce. We offer fair, transparent funding with wellbeing support built in.