Simple-separation.com.au Review

Based on checking the website Simple-separation.com.au, the platform aims to provide simplified and affordable separation and divorce services in Australia. This review focuses on assessing its legitimacy and ethical considerations, particularly from an Islamic perspective, which generally discourages divorce unless absolutely necessary and as a last resort, always favouring reconciliation.

Here’s an overall review summary for Simple-separation.com.au:

Service Offering: Provides end-to-end separation and divorce services, including mediation, financial agreements, consent orders, and parenting plans.
Pricing Model: Fixed-fee packages with flexible payment options, starting from $2,499 + GST per individual for financial settlements.
Legal Structure: Legal services are provided through a panel of third-party law firms, mediators, and service providers.
Target Audience: Couples seeking a faster, more respectful, and affordable alternative to traditional law firms, aiming to minimise conflict.
Geographical Reach: Australia-wide, including Western Australia.
Ethical Standpoint (Islamic Perspective): While the website promotes a “respectful” and “low-conflict” approach to separation, the fundamental concept of facilitating divorce as a primary service is generally discouraged in Islam. Islam places a high emphasis on the preservation of marriage and family unity. Reconciliation is always the preferred path. Therefore, a service designed to streamline divorce, even if intended to be amicable, runs contrary to the Islamic principle of exhausting all efforts for marital harmony and reconciliation before considering separation as a last resort. The focus should be on mending ties, not merely separating respectfully.

In light of the strong Islamic emphasis on preserving marriage and avoiding divorce whenever possible, engaging a service that simplifies and expedites divorce, even with good intentions for amicable outcomes, can be viewed as problematic. The ultimate goal should be reconciliation, with divorce only being considered after all other avenues have been exhausted.

Here are some better alternatives that align with Islamic principles by focusing on strengthening marital bonds and fostering harmony, rather than facilitating separation:

Islamic Marriage Counselling Services: Many organisations and individual counsellors offer services rooted in Islamic principles, focusing on conflict resolution, communication improvement, and reconciliation. These often include spiritual guidance and practical advice to mend marital issues.
Family Therapy Books: Resources that provide guidance on effective communication, understanding marital rights and responsibilities, and resolving disputes within a family context.
Relationship Building Workshops: Local community centres or online platforms often offer workshops on pre-marital preparation and marital enrichment, focusing on building strong foundations.
Islamic Scholars and Counsellors: Seeking advice from knowledgeable Islamic scholars or counsellors who can provide guidance based on Quran and Sunnah on marital issues and reconciliation.
Communication Skills Training: Books or courses that help individuals and couples develop better communication and listening skills, crucial for resolving conflicts.
Conflict Resolution Courses: Online or in-person courses designed to equip individuals with tools and strategies to manage and resolve conflicts peacefully, applicable to marital disputes.
Books on Islamic Family Law: These resources can provide a deeper understanding of marital rights, responsibilities, and the comprehensive approach to family matters within Islam, emphasising preservation.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Simple-separation.com.au Review & First Look

Simple-separation.com.au positions itself as a modern solution for Australians navigating the complexities of marital separation. The website’s primary promise is to offer a faster, more respectful, and affordable alternative to traditional law firms, streamlining the divorce process with fixed-fee packages and flexible payment options. This approach is designed to eliminate the notorious “bill shock” often associated with conventional legal services, aiming for certainty in costs.

What Simple-separation.com.au Claims to Offer

The platform claims to provide a comprehensive suite of separation-related services under one roof. These include:

Mediation: Facilitating discussions between separating parties to reach amicable agreements.
Financial Agreements: Drafting legally binding documents for property and financial settlements.
Consent Orders: Formalising agreements into court orders to make them legally enforceable.
Parenting Plans: Developing arrangements for children’s care and custody.
Property Transfers: Assisting with the legal process of transferring property ownership.
Wills and Estate Planning: Addressing post-separation estate considerations.
The service coverage is stated as Australia-wide, including Western Australia, which is a significant reach for a specialised legal service. They also emphasise working with couples, not just individuals, promoting a transparent and fair process designed to minimise conflict and delays.

The Problem with Facilitating Divorce

While the intention behind Simple-separation.com.au might be to ease a difficult process, from an Islamic perspective, the very act of facilitating divorce, even amicably, is inherently problematic. Islam views marriage as a sacred covenant (mithaq ghalith) and the foundation of society. Divorce (talaq) is considered the most detestable of permissible acts in the sight of Allah, to be resorted to only when all avenues of reconciliation have been exhausted and the marital relationship has become irrevocably broken.

The Quran and Sunnah strongly encourage reconciliation, patience, and seeking intervention from family elders or arbitrators before considering divorce. Services that simplify or expedite divorce, even if well-intentioned, can inadvertently make it easier for couples to abandon their marriages without fully exploring all possibilities for reconciliation. This goes against the core Islamic teaching of preserving the family unit and prioritising marital harmony. The focus should be on healing and restoring relationships, not merely managing their dissolution.

Simple-separation.com.au Pros & Cons

When evaluating Simple-separation.com.au, it’s important to consider both its purported advantages and the significant drawbacks, particularly when viewed through an ethical lens, such as Islamic principles that prioritise marital preservation.

Stated Advantages (from a conventional perspective)

From a purely operational and cost-efficiency standpoint, Simple-separation.com.au highlights several potential benefits:

Fixed-Fee Certainty: The promise of fixed-fee packages is a major draw for individuals seeking to avoid the unpredictable costs of traditional legal representation. This transparency can help budget during an already stressful time. Customer testimonials on the site, such as Dave from Brisbane, claim to have saved “5 x the amount at least” compared to engaging separate law firms.
Comprehensive Service Under One Roof: The platform aims to be a “one-stop shop” for various separation-related services, from financial settlements to parenting plans, potentially simplifying the process for separating couples.
Focus on Amicable Resolution: By emphasising mediation and minimising “unnecessary legal correspondence,” the service suggests a commitment to reducing conflict, which can be beneficial for the emotional well-being of all parties, especially children. They claim agreements can be reached within “45-90 days on average.”
Australia-Wide Reach: Servicing all states and territories, including WA, broadens accessibility for individuals across the country who might otherwise struggle to find suitable local legal support.
Flexible Payment Options: Offering upfront, split, and instalment payment plans makes the service more accessible financially.

Significant Disadvantages (with an Ethical Focus)

While the above points might seem appealing on the surface, a deeper ethical review, particularly from an Islamic perspective, reveals considerable drawbacks:

Normalisation and Expediting of Divorce: The most significant ethical concern is how such a service, by making divorce “simpler” and “faster,” inadvertently normalises and expedites a process that should be a last resort. Islam views divorce as a grave matter, a legal tool to be used only when all avenues for reconciliation have been exhausted. A service that streamlines this process might reduce the threshold for couples to consider divorce, rather than work through their difficulties. Data from the Australian Institute of Family Studies indicates that a significant portion of separating couples could potentially reconcile with effective intervention, highlighting the importance of reconciliation services over divorce facilitators.
Lack of Emphasis on Reconciliation: The website’s focus is on managing separation, not preventing it. There is no clear emphasis on reconciliation services or marital counselling before separation is pursued. This omission is critical from an Islamic standpoint, where efforts to preserve the marriage are paramount.
Potential for Emotional Detachment: While aiming for “respectful” separation, the fixed-fee, expedited model might inadvertently create an environment where emotional complexities are sidelined in favour of quick legal finalisation, potentially leading to unresolved emotional issues for individuals and families.
Limited Personalised Legal Advice: Although they use a panel of law firms, the “fixed-fee” and “streamlined” nature may limit the depth of personalised legal advice that a traditional law firm might offer, especially for complex cases. The website states that “All legal services are provided at a fixed fee through our select panel of third party law firms,” which implies an outsourced model.
Proprietary Control Over the Process: While advocating for transparency, the fixed-fee structure means the process is largely dictated by Simple Separation’s model, potentially limiting flexibility for unique or evolving circumstances during a separation.

Ultimately, while Simple-separation.com.au offers a modern, efficient, and potentially cost-effective method for handling legal separation, its very existence and operational model can be seen as counter-productive to the Islamic emphasis on marital preservation and reconciliation. The focus on making divorce easier, even if amicable, stands in stark contrast to the Islamic directive to make every effort to save a marriage.

Simple-separation.com.au Alternatives

Given the ethical considerations surrounding services that primarily facilitate divorce, it’s crucial to explore alternatives that align with Islamic principles by promoting marital harmony, reconciliation, and robust family structures. These alternatives focus on building strong relationships and providing support to resolve conflicts, rather than streamlining separation.

Focus on Marital Preservation and Strengthening Bonds

Islamic Marriage Counselling and Mediation Services:
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- Key Features: Provided by imams, scholars, or trained counsellors who understand Islamic family law and ethics. They focus on communication skills, conflict resolution, understanding spousal rights and duties, and spiritual guidance to foster reconciliation. Many offer both in-person and online sessions.
- Average Price: Varies widely, from free services offered by mosques to paid professional counselling (e.g., AUD $100-$300 per session).
- Pros: Directly addresses the root causes of marital discord, prioritises reconciliation, provides faith-based guidance, and supports family unity.
- Cons: Requires commitment from both parties, availability of qualified Islamic counsellors may vary by region.
Family Therapy and Relationship Coaching:
- Key Features: Professional therapists or coaches who specialise in family dynamics and relationship challenges. While not necessarily Islamic, many can incorporate values if requested. They use evidence-based techniques to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust.
- Average Price: AUD $150-$400 per session, depending on location and experience.
- Pros: Structured approach to problem-solving, can help individuals and couples develop healthy coping mechanisms and communication patterns.
- Cons: Can be costly, finding a therapist who understands or respects Islamic values might require research.
Online Courses and Books on Islamic Marriage & Family Life:
- Key Features: A wealth of educational resources available, from comprehensive online courses on Fiqh of Marriage (Islamic jurisprudence on marriage) to books on prophetic guidance for marital harmony, parenting, and conflict resolution within an Islamic framework.
- Average Price: Books can range from AUD $20-$70; online courses can vary from free to AUD $200-$500+.
- Pros: Affordable, self-paced learning, provides foundational knowledge and practical advice rooted in Islamic teachings, accessible globally.
- Cons: Requires self-discipline, not personalised guidance, cannot replace direct counselling for deep-seated issues.
Community and Mosque-Based Support Programs:
- Key Features: Many mosques and Islamic community centres offer informal counselling, marriage workshops, and support groups for couples and families. These are often led by imams or respected community elders.
- Price: Often free or very low cost, as they are community-funded initiatives.
- Pros: Highly accessible, community-supported, often culturally and religiously relevant, fosters a sense of belonging.
- Cons: May lack the formal structure of professional therapy, expertise can vary.
Books on Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution:
- Key Features: General non-fiction books that provide practical tools for improving interpersonal communication, active listening, and constructive conflict resolution applicable to any relationship, including marriage.
- Average Price: AUD $20-$40 per book.
- Pros: Develops essential life skills, empowers individuals to take charge of their communication, widely available.
- Cons: Not tailored to specific marital issues, requires consistent effort to apply principles.
Spiritual Retreats or Workshops for Couples:
- Key Features: Designed to help couples reconnect on a spiritual and emotional level, often incorporating elements of reflection, prayer, shared activities, and discussions about marital duties and blessings from an Islamic perspective.
- Average Price: Varies widely, from AUD $100 for a day workshop to AUD $1000+ for a weekend retreat.
- Pros: Creates a focused environment for marital renewal, strengthens spiritual bonds, offers a refreshing perspective away from daily distractions.
- Cons: Can be an investment of time and money, availability may be limited.
Pre-Marital Education Courses:
- Key Features: While aimed at those preparing for marriage, these courses often cover foundational aspects of a healthy relationship, communication, financial planning, and conflict resolution that are equally valuable for existing marriages seeking to strengthen their bond or resolve issues.
- Average Price: Free to AUD $300+.
- Pros: Proactive approach to building strong marriages, equips couples with tools before major issues arise, can be a ‘refresher’ for existing couples.
- Cons: May not address specific, deep-seated marital problems that have already developed.

How to Approach Marital Difficulties Ethically

From an Islamic perspective, the approach to marital difficulties must always prioritise reconciliation and preservation of the family unit.

Seek Reconciliation First: The Quran (4:35) advises appointing arbitrators from both families if discord arises. This demonstrates the emphasis on internal, family-based conflict resolution before external intervention or separation.
Patience and Forbearance: Spouses are encouraged to exercise patience and forbearance, recognising that every individual has shortcomings.
Understanding Rights and Responsibilities: Education on the rights and responsibilities of spouses in Islam can significantly reduce misunderstandings and conflict.
Dua (Supplication): Turning to Allah in prayer for guidance, strength, and reconciliation is a fundamental aspect of the Islamic approach to any life challenge, including marital discord.

How to Cancel Simple-separation.com.au Subscription (Hypothetical)

Given that Simple-separation.com.au offers fixed-fee packages rather than a traditional subscription model, the concept of “cancelling a subscription” doesn’t directly apply in the same way one might cancel a monthly streaming service. Instead, it refers to withdrawing from their fixed-fee service after engagement.

Understanding Simple-separation.com.au’s Engagement Model

Simple-separation.com.au operates on a fixed-fee basis for specific services like financial settlements or parenting plans. Once you engage them and pay for a package, you are essentially entering into a service agreement for a defined legal outcome. This isn’t a recurring subscription that you pay monthly or annually. Nupack.com.au Review

Steps to “Cancel” or Withdraw from Services

If you have engaged Simple-separation.com.au for a service and wish to discontinue or withdraw, the process would likely involve the following steps:

Review Your Service Agreement: The first crucial step is to carefully read any agreement, contract, or terms and conditions you signed when engaging Simple-separation.com.au. This document will outline the terms of service, payment schedules, and crucially, the conditions for withdrawal or termination of services, including any refund policies or fees for work already commenced.
Contact Simple-separation.com.au Directly: You would need to formally communicate your intention to withdraw from their services. This should ideally be done in writing (email or letter) to create a clear record. Use the contact information provided on their website.
- Email: Check their “Contact Us” page for a dedicated email address.
- Phone: Call their customer service line to discuss your situation, but always follow up with a written confirmation.
Discuss Refund and Outstanding Fees: In most service agreements of this nature, if work has already commenced, you may not be entitled to a full refund. The agreement should specify how partial refunds or outstanding payments for work completed will be handled. Be prepared to discuss and potentially negotiate any fees for services rendered up to the point of cancellation.
Confirm Disengagement in Writing: Ensure you receive written confirmation from Simple-separation.com.au acknowledging your withdrawal and detailing any agreed-upon financial arrangements or next steps. This is vital for your records.
Seek Independent Legal Advice (if needed): If you encounter difficulties or disputes regarding your withdrawal or fees, it might be prudent to seek independent legal advice from a solicitor specialising in consumer law or contract disputes.

Important Considerations:

Work Commenced: If Simple-separation.com.au has already started work on your case (e.g., commenced mediation, drafted documents, engaged a third-party law firm), you will likely be liable for the costs associated with that work. Their fixed-fee structure might mean a significant portion is charged upfront or upon reaching certain milestones.
Third-Party Law Firms: Remember that Simple-separation.com.au outsources legal services to a panel of third-party law firms. Your withdrawal might also involve direct communication with the specific law firm handling your case to ensure all legal obligations are properly ceased.
Ethical Ramifications of Withdrawal: If you are withdrawing because you’ve reconsidered separation and wish to pursue reconciliation, communicate this clearly. While Simple-separation.com.au’s business model doesn’t focus on reconciliation, your personal decision to mend your marriage is ethically paramount from an Islamic perspective.

In essence, “cancelling” with Simple-separation.com.au is akin to terminating a professional service contract, rather than stopping a recurring payment. It requires careful review of the initial agreement and clear communication.

How to Cancel Simple-separation.com.au Free Trial (Hypothetical)

The concept of a “free trial” doesn’t appear to be a primary offering of Simple-separation.com.au, which operates on a fixed-fee service model for legal and mediation services. Their website prominently features a “Free 30 min Consultation,” which is not a free trial of their full service but rather an initial introductory meeting.

Understanding the “Free 30 min Consultation”

The “Free 30 min Consultation” offered by Simple-separation.com.au is a no-obligation introductory call designed to assess if their services are “right for me.” It’s an opportunity for potential clients to understand the process and pricing, and for Simple Separation to determine if they can assist. This consultation does not typically require a “cancellation” in the traditional sense, as it doesn’t automatically lead to a paid service or recurring charges unless you explicitly decide to proceed.

What to Do After a “Free Consultation”

If you have participated in a “Free 30 min Consultation” with Simple-separation.com.au and decide not to proceed with their paid services, there’s generally no formal “cancellation” required.

No Action Required (Usually): In most cases, if you don’t take any further steps after the free consultation (like signing an agreement or making a payment), there’s nothing to “cancel.” You simply don’t proceed with their services.
Optional: Inform Them of Your Decision: While not strictly necessary, it can be a polite gesture to send a brief email thanking them for the consultation and informing them that you have decided not to proceed with their services at this time. This helps them close your inquiry in their system.
- Example Email: “Dear Simple Separation Team, Thank you for the 30-minute consultation on [Date]. I appreciate the information provided. After careful consideration, I have decided not to proceed with your services at this time. Wishing you all the best. Sincerely, [Your Name].”
No Payment Information Taken: During a free consultation, legitimate services typically do not ask for credit card details or bank account information unless you are explicitly signing up for a paid service. If you are asked for payment details for a “free consultation,” exercise extreme caution as this could be a red flag.

What if I’m Concerned About Data Privacy?

If you’ve shared personal information during the consultation and are concerned about its retention, you can inquire about their data retention policy. Reputable companies have privacy policies explaining how they handle client data. You might have the right to request deletion of your data under privacy laws like the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) if it’s no longer necessary for the purpose it was collected.

In summary, the “free trial” concept doesn’t apply to Simple-separation.com.au’s business model. The “Free 30 min Consultation” is simply an initial discussion, and choosing not to proceed typically requires no formal cancellation.

Simple-separation.com.au Pricing

Simple-separation.com.au operates on a fixed-fee pricing model, aiming to provide cost certainty and affordability in the separation and divorce process. This stands in contrast to the traditional hourly billing model prevalent in many law firms, which often leads to unpredictable and escalating costs.

Overview of Their Fixed-Fee Structure

The website states that their pricing structure is “innovative” and designed to save couples “thousands of dollars.” Key aspects of their pricing include:

Fixed-Fee Packages: Services are offered as complete packages with a set price, ensuring “no nasty bill shock.” This means clients know the total cost upfront for a defined service.
Flexible Payment Options: To enhance accessibility and affordability, they offer various payment methods:
- Upfront payment via EFT or credit card.
- Split evenly between parties.
- Payment in instalments.
Starting Price Point: The website explicitly states, “Financial settlement pricing starts at $2,499 + gst per individual.” This indicates that the quoted price is per person, and additional services or complexities may lead to higher fixed fees. The “All legal services are provided at a fixed fee through our select panel of third party law firms” clarifies that the fixed fee covers the legal work provided by their partner firms.

Example Services and Implied Pricing Structure

While specific package breakdowns aren’t extensively detailed on the homepage, the mention of various services suggests a tiered or modular pricing system: Rosie-lu.com.au Review

Financial Settlements: Starting at $2,499 + GST per individual. This would likely cover drafting financial agreements or consent orders related to property and assets.
Parenting Plans: Likely a separate fixed fee for developing formal parenting arrangements.
Application for Divorce: A separate fee for processing the formal divorce application with the court.
Property Transfers: A distinct fixed fee for handling the legal aspects of transferring property ownership.
Mediation: A fixed fee for facilitated discussions between parties.

It’s crucial for potential clients to understand precisely what each fixed-fee package includes and what it excludes. Hidden costs, even within a fixed-fee model, can arise if certain aspects are deemed “out of scope” for the initial package. For instance, complex negotiations, court appearances (if required, though they aim to avoid them), or highly contested matters might incur additional charges or require a different, more expensive package.

Comparison to Traditional Law Firms

Simple-separation.com.au highlights itself as a more affordable alternative. Traditional law firms typically charge hourly rates, which can range from AUD $300 to $700+ per hour for solicitors and barristers. For a contested divorce or complex property settlement, legal fees can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars, or even hundreds of thousands for highly protracted cases.

In contrast, a fixed-fee model like Simple-separation.com.au provides:

Budget Certainty: Clients know the maximum cost upfront, allowing for better financial planning during a stressful period.
Incentive for Efficiency: The service provider is incentivised to complete the work efficiently, as they receive a fixed amount regardless of the hours spent.
Reduced Anxiety: Eliminates the worry of hourly billing adding up indefinitely.

Ethical Reflection on Pricing

While the fixed-fee model offers transparency and affordability, it doesn’t negate the overarching ethical concerns from an Islamic perspective regarding the facilitation of divorce. Although it makes the legal process less financially burdensome, it doesn’t address the spiritual and social imperative of preserving the marriage. A truly ethically aligned service would prioritise fixed-fee models for reconciliation and marital therapy, with divorce services only as a last resort at a proportionate, non-incentivising cost.

Simple-separation.com.au vs. Traditional Legal Aid and Family Lawyers

When considering Simple-separation.com.au, it’s beneficial to compare its approach to established methods of handling separation and divorce: traditional family law firms and government-funded legal aid services. Each option presents distinct advantages and disadvantages, particularly in terms of cost, comprehensiveness, and philosophical approach.

Traditional Family Law Firms

Model: Typically charge hourly rates for their services. They offer highly personalised legal advice, representation in court (if needed), and can handle complex and contested matters.
Pros:

Personalised Service: Lawyers provide tailored advice based on the specifics of each case.
Full Representation: Capable of representing clients in complex negotiations, mediation, and litigation in family courts.
Expertise for Complex Cases: Well-suited for high-conflict divorces, intricate financial arrangements, or international custody disputes. According to the Law Council of Australia, legal professionals are often the first point of contact for complex family law issues.
Advocacy: A lawyer acts solely in their client’s best interest.
Cons:
High and Unpredictable Costs: Hourly rates can quickly escalate, leading to significant financial strain and “bill shock.” A report by the Productivity Commission found that legal costs are a major barrier to justice, especially in family law.
Time-Consuming: Litigation can be lengthy and emotionally draining.
Adversarial Nature: The traditional legal process can often become adversarial, increasing conflict between parties.

Legal Aid Services

Model: Government-funded services (like Legal Aid Australia) provide legal assistance to individuals who meet strict eligibility criteria, usually based on financial hardship and the nature of their legal issue.
Pros:

Affordable/Free: Designed for those who cannot afford private legal representation.
Access to Justice: Ensures that vulnerable individuals still have access to legal advice and representation.
Basic Services: Can provide advice, limited representation, or assistance with forms.
Cons:
Strict Eligibility: Many people do not qualify due to means or merit tests.
Limited Scope: The services provided may be limited in scope and may not cover complex or protracted matters.
Capacity Issues: Legal aid commissions often face high demand, leading to waiting lists.

Simple-separation.com.au

Model: Fixed-fee, online-centric service that aims to streamline amicable separations through mediation and a panel of third-party law firms.
Pros:

Cost Certainty: Fixed fees eliminate bill shock, making costs predictable.
Efficiency: Aims for faster resolution (e.g., 45-90 days), avoiding lengthy court backlogs.
Focus on Amicable Resolution: Promotes mediation and minimises conflict, which can be less stressful for families.
Convenience: Online platform provides ease of access and management.
Cons:
Limited for Complex/Contested Cases: Best suited for straightforward, amicable separations. It may not be equipped to handle highly contested matters or cases requiring extensive court litigation.
Less Personalised: While legal services are provided, the fixed-fee model might offer less personalised interaction compared to a dedicated private lawyer.
Ethical Concerns (Islamic Perspective): As discussed, its primary function of simplifying divorce, even amicably, runs counter to the Islamic emphasis on marital preservation and reconciliation. It does not actively encourage or facilitate pathways to mend a broken marriage, focusing instead on its dissolution.
Reliance on Third Parties: The quality and availability of services are dependent on their panel of external law firms and mediators.

Comparative Summary

Feature	Traditional Family Law Firms	Legal Aid Services	Simple-separation.com.au
Cost Model	Hourly rates (high, unpredictable)	Free or low-cost (eligibility dependent)	Fixed-fee packages (predictable, moderate)
Service Scope	Comprehensive, personalised, litigation-capable	Limited scope, basic assistance	Streamlined, amicable settlements, mediation, forms
Conflict Handling	Adversarial, can exacerbate conflict	Basic, limited conflict resolution	Aims to minimise conflict through mediation
Accessibility	Broad, but expensive	Restricted by eligibility	Broad, online-centric
Ethical Stance (Islam)	Can be used for last-resort divorce, but also for reconciliation efforts	Can be used for last-resort divorce	Primarily facilitates divorce, ethically problematic due to lack of reconciliation focus

In conclusion, Simple-separation.com.au fills a niche for couples seeking a more affordable and less adversarial pathway to divorce, assuming a degree of existing agreement. However, for those with complex cases, or for individuals prioritising reconciliation (as is highly encouraged in Islam), traditional legal avenues or, more appropriately, dedicated marital counselling and reconciliation services would be more suitable. The platform’s efficiency in finalising divorce should be weighed against the broader ethical imperative of preserving family units.

Simple-separation.com.au Features

Simple-separation.com.au promotes itself through a suite of features designed to make the divorce and separation process more efficient, affordable, and less contentious. The website highlights its “innovative” approach, aiming to diverge from traditional legal routes. Clocksprings.com.au Review

Key Features Promoted on the Website:

Fixed-Fee Packages:
- Description: This is arguably their most prominent feature. Instead of hourly rates, they offer fixed prices for various services, starting with “Financial settlement pricing starts at $2,499 + gst per individual.”
- Benefit: Provides cost certainty, eliminating “bill shock” and allowing clients to budget effectively during a stressful period. It’s a clear differentiator from traditional law firms.
Flexible Payment Options:
- Description: Clients can pay upfront via EFT or credit card, split payments evenly between parties, or arrange for instalments.
- Benefit: Enhances accessibility and affordability, making their services attainable for a broader range of financial situations.
Comprehensive Suite of Services “All in the One Place”:
- Description: Simple Separation aims to be a single point of contact for various separation-related needs. Their listed services include:
  - Mediation
  - Financial Agreements
  - Consent Orders
  - Parenting Plans
  - Property Transfers
  - Application for Divorce
  - Pre-nuptial Agreement (though focused on separation, this is listed)
  - Wills and Estate Planning
- Benefit: Simplifies the process by reducing the need to engage multiple legal professionals for different aspects of separation.
Faster, Less Stressful Pathway:
- Description: They claim to help parties “minimise conflict and reach agreements within 45-90 days on average,” avoiding costly lawyer negotiations and prolonged conflicts.
- Benefit: Promises a quicker resolution, potentially reducing the emotional toll and financial burden associated with lengthy legal battles. This is particularly appealing given the backlog in family courts.
Works with Couples, Not Individuals:
- Description: “We work with couples, not individuals & provide a transparent and fair process.” This implies a commitment to neutrality and facilitating joint agreements.
- Benefit: Fosters a less adversarial environment, encouraging cooperation rather than contention, which is beneficial for amicable settlements.
Australia-Wide Service (Including WA):
- Description: They service all states and territories, explicitly mentioning Western Australia, which can have different family law procedures.
- Benefit: Provides broad accessibility for individuals across Australia, ensuring that their geographical location doesn’t limit access to their services.
Panel of Third-Party Law Firms, Mediators & Service Providers:
- Description: “All legal services are provided at a fixed fee through our select panel of independent law firms, mediators & service providers.” They also highlight accreditation by various legal bodies (e.g., AIFLAM, LEADR).
- Benefit: Offers the assurance that legal aspects are handled by qualified professionals, while Simple Separation manages the overall process and cost structure.
Online Resources and Guides:
- Description: The website provides downloadable guides like a “Separation Checklist” and “Helping Men prioritise their mental health,” along with blog articles.
- Benefit: Offers supplementary information and support to individuals navigating separation, beyond just the legal process.

Ethical Evaluation of Features

While these features aim to provide efficiency and affordability in a difficult time, it’s essential to reiterate the ethical concerns from an Islamic perspective:

Efficiency for a Detrimental Process: The features primarily streamline the process of dissolving a marriage. From an Islamic viewpoint, the ultimate goal should be the preservation of marriage and reconciliation, not efficient separation.
Lack of Reconciliation Focus: None of the listed features inherently promote or facilitate reconciliation, which is the primary Islamic directive when marital discord arises. The focus is purely on managing the outcome of a decision to separate.
“Pre-nuptial Agreement” (Mahr): While listed as a service, it’s worth noting that in Islam, the concept of Mahr (dowry) is distinct from a pre-nuptial agreement. Mahr is an obligatory gift from the husband to the wife, an acknowledgement of her value, not a contingency plan for divorce. A pre-nuptial agreement, if it seeks to undermine the wife’s established rights or pre-emptively limit financial support in a divorce, could be ethically problematic if not structured carefully within Islamic legal frameworks.

In summary, Simple-separation.com.au’s features are designed to be pragmatic and user-friendly for those committed to separation. However, their utility is largely confined to managing the dissolution of marriage, rather than aligning with the broader ethical imperative of fostering and preserving marital bonds that Islam strongly advocates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Simple-separation.com.au?

Simple-separation.com.au is an online platform based in Australia that offers streamlined, fixed-fee services for marital separation and divorce, including mediation, financial agreements, consent orders, and parenting plans, aiming to provide a faster and more affordable alternative to traditional law firms.

Is Simple-separation.com.au legitimate?

Based on the website’s description, Simple-separation.com.au appears to be a legitimate service. It outlines its offerings, pricing structure, and mentions working with a panel of third-party law firms accredited by relevant bodies, suggesting it operates within the legal framework in Australia.

What are the main services offered by Simple-separation.com.au?

The main services offered include mediation, financial agreements, consent orders, parenting plans, property transfers, application for divorce, pre-nuptial agreements, and wills and estate planning, all provided through fixed-fee packages.

How does Simple-separation.com.au pricing work?

Simple-separation.com.au operates on a fixed-fee model, meaning clients pay a set price for specific services, avoiding hourly billing. For example, financial settlement pricing starts at $2,499 + GST per individual. They also offer flexible payment options, including upfront, split, and instalment plans.

Is Simple-separation.com.au suitable for complex divorce cases?

Simple-separation.com.au is generally best suited for relatively amicable and straightforward separations where parties are willing to reach an agreement. For highly complex, contested, or adversarial cases, traditional law firms offering full litigation support might be more appropriate.

What does “fixed-fee” mean in the context of Simple-separation.com.au?

Fixed-fee means you pay a predetermined, set amount for a specific service, regardless of the hours the legal team spends on your case. This provides cost certainty, eliminating unexpected “bill shock” often associated with hourly billing.

Does Simple-separation.com.au offer reconciliation services?

No, based on the website’s information, Simple-separation.com.au primarily focuses on facilitating the legal process of separation and divorce. It does not appear to offer services aimed at marital reconciliation or counselling to prevent separation.

How long does the Simple-separation.com.au process take?

Simple-separation.com.au claims to help parties reach agreements within 45-90 days on average, aiming for a faster resolution compared to traditional, often lengthy, court processes. Logitechshop.com.au Review

Does Simple-separation.com.au provide direct legal advice?

Simple-separation.com.au states that “All legal services are provided at a fixed fee through our select panel of third party law firms.” This implies that while Simple Separation manages the overall process, the actual legal advice and services are rendered by their partner legal professionals.

What are the payment options available with Simple-separation.com.au?

Simple-separation.com.au offers flexible payment options, including upfront payment by EFT or credit card, splitting the cost evenly between parties, and payment in instalments.

Is Simple-separation.com.au available throughout Australia?

Yes, Simple-separation.com.au states that it services Australia-wide, including Western Australia, making its services accessible across the country.

What is the “Free 30 min Consultation” offered by Simple-separation.com.au?

The “Free 30 min Consultation” is an initial, no-obligation discussion designed to help potential clients understand if Simple-separation.com.au’s services are suitable for their situation and to learn about their process and pricing. It is not a free trial of their full service.

How does Simple-separation.com.au compare to traditional law firms?

Simple-separation.com.au aims to be a faster, more affordable, and less adversarial alternative to traditional law firms. It uses fixed fees instead of hourly rates and focuses on amicable resolutions, while traditional firms offer more extensive, personalised, and often litigious services at higher, unpredictable costs.

What ethical considerations are there regarding services like Simple-separation.com.au?

From an Islamic perspective, services that streamline divorce, even if amicable, are ethically concerning as they can inadvertently make it easier to dissolve marriages, which Islam strongly discourages unless absolutely necessary and after all reconciliation efforts have failed. The primary focus should always be on preserving the marriage.

Can Simple-separation.com.au help with pre-nuptial agreements?

Yes, Simple-separation.com.au lists “Pre-nuptial Agreement” as one of its services, indicating they can assist with drafting these types of agreements.

What is the role of mediation in Simple-separation.com.au’s process?

Mediation is a core service offered by Simple-separation.com.au, aimed at helping separating parties reach amicable agreements through facilitated discussions, thereby minimising conflict and avoiding lengthy court battles.

Are customer testimonials on Simple-separation.com.au reliable?

The website features testimonials from “clients,” but as with any online testimonials, it’s wise to consider them as anecdotal evidence. While they provide positive feedback, individual experiences can vary.

What kind of support resources does Simple-separation.com.au offer?

Simple-separation.com.au offers online resources such as a “Separation Checklist” download, guides like “Helping Men prioritise their mental health,” and a blog with articles related to separation and financial settlements. Mmfitness.com.au Review

Does Simple-separation.com.au handle court appearances?

Simple-separation.com.au primarily focuses on helping parties reach agreements outside of court and avoid litigation. While their panel of law firms handles the legal finalisation (like consent orders), their model aims to eliminate the need for extensive court appearances, though complex, contested cases might still require them.

What should I do if I’m considering divorce from an Islamic perspective?

From an Islamic perspective, before considering divorce, it is imperative to exhaust all avenues for reconciliation, including seeking Islamic marriage counselling, involving family elders (arbitrators), improving communication, and making sincere supplications to Allah for guidance and resolution. Divorce should only be a last resort when the marriage is truly irreparable.