Letter of advice template, with a worked example

[The facts relied on, as the client gave them.]

My advice relies on these facts. Please tell me promptly if anything here is wrong or incomplete.

• (a)[Question, in the client’s terms]
• (b)[Question]

• (a)[Direct answer to question (a), then the reasons.]
• (b)[Direct answer to question (b), then the reasons.]

• •[Option 1]. [Benefits, risks, likely cost and time.]
• •[Option 2]. [Benefits, risks, likely cost and time.]

I recommend [option], because [reason].

[Each deadline as a date, and what happens if it is missed.]

[Estimate for the next stage, including GST.] Our costs agreement dated [date] sets out how we charge.

You and Mark married in 2012 and separated in March 2025. You still jointly own the home, with about $410,000 owing on the mortgage. Mark has paid the mortgage since you moved out. Your children, aged 9 and 12, live mainly with you.

My advice relies on these facts. Please tell me promptly if anything here is wrong or incomplete.

• (a)How will our property be divided?
• (b)Is there a deadline?

• (a)There is no automatic 50/50 split. The court looks at what you each own and owe, what each of you contributed (financially, and as a parent and homemaker), your future needs, including the children’s care, and whether the result is just and equitable. Mark’s mortgage payments since separation may count as a contribution.
• (b)Yes. See section 5.

• •Negotiate. After you both disclose your finances. This is usually quickest and cheapest.
• •Mediation. If negotiation stalls. A mediator helps you both reach an agreement.
• •Court. The last resort: slower and more expensive.

I recommend full disclosure, then mediation.

Once a divorce order takes effect, you have 12 months to apply for property orders. Neither of you has applied for a divorce yet. Please speak to me before either of you does.

We estimate $4,000 to $6,000 including GST for disclosure and mediation. Our costs agreement dated 14 September 2026 sets out how we charge.