Planning to Separate? Why Working Together Before You ‘Lawyer Up’ Can Save Your Future
Most separating couples want to keep things amicable – but that’s often easier said than done. One misstep (or a single lawyer’s letter that lands like a grenade) can quickly turn a calm conversation into an expensive, high-conflict battle.
But separation doesn’t have to be a war. What if you could approach it strategically – keeping control, protecting your family, and avoiding unnecessary legal conflict?
That’s exactly what Simplify is here to help with.
Coaching and Strategy, Not Conflict
At Simplify, we support couples to separate with clarity, dignity, and mutual respect – before the lawyers get involved. In fact, many of our clients avoid the traditional legal route altogether by formalising their agreements through a Consent Order – without court proceedings or adversarial legal representation.
We’re not against legal advice – far from it. But timing matters.
Legal advice is different from legal representation. We help couples get clear on their financials, priorities, and agreements before they seek legal input. That way, they know exactly what they’re asking advice about – like an agreed asset pool we’ve supported them to prepare.
The result? Less stress, less cost, and a lot more control.
Introducing the Amicable Package
Our Amicable Package Suite offers a clear, step-by-step pathway for ex-couples (or nearly-ex couples) to:
- Focus on what matters most – from protecting children’s wellbeing to creating financial stability.
- Stay in control – instead of outsourcing critical decisions to lawyers or the Court.
- Save time, money, and emotional energy – with a fixed-fee model that includes coaching, financial disclosure, negotiation support, and Consent Order preparation.
We work directly with both parties – something most lawyers can’t do.
Real Stories, Real Impact
“We wanted to be amicable but didn’t know how. I honestly thought I’d have to fight for everything, but Andrea changed the whole tone. Her practical advice and emotional support helped us keep our dignity, stay strategic, and save what really matters — our kids’ stability and our financial future. We couldn’t have done this without her.”
– Bec, Simplify Client
A Smarter, Kinder Way to Separate
We’re not anti-lawyer. In fact, we collaborate with a trusted network of family lawyers who share our mission to reduce trauma, avoid litigation, and empower families to move forward – while saving $$$$.
We’re pro-people. Pro-dignity. Pro-future. We believe separation doesn’t have to destroy what you’ve built – it just needs the right guidance, support, and strategy.
If you’re planning to separate – or supporting someone who is – reach out to Simplify.
The right support at the right time can change everything.
About the Author
Andrea Hooper is the Director of Simplify Separation & Divorce, where she empowers individuals and ex-couples navigating separation and divorce through compassionate coaching and, logistical and emotional support. With a background in counselling, coaching, leadership, and community services, Andrea is dedicated to helping people emerge from life transitions with renewed confidence, independence, and clarity, and is a trail-blazer in supporting couples to legally separate without legal representation.