The Discrete Property List (DPL) was introduced in Sydney by the Federal Circuit Court in 2019. It is a special list for situations where applications to the Court are for cash orders only, i.e., no parenting orders are sought. The DPL aims to simplify these issues and support a just settlement with minimum delay and cost.
Cases mentioned under the DPL are handled by Registrars, who are experienced legal workers who have been trained in family law. Registrars have the power to make a wide range of orders, including orders for exchanging papers, hiring experts, and settling disagreements.
Importance of Discrete Property List
The DPL has been designed to be more efficient than the traditional family law court process. Cases listed under the DPL are given a tight timeframe to finalise them within 90 days. Registrars are also encouraged to be more proactive in case management and to use their powers to ensure that parties comply with orders.
The DPL has been well-received by family lawyers and their clients alike. It is an effective way to resolve property disputes quickly and efficiently.
Here are some of the key benefits of the DPL:
- Faster resolution: Cases listed under the DPL are given a tight timeframe to finalize them within 90 days. This is significantly faster than the traditional family law court process.
- Reduced costs: The DPL is more cost-effective than the traditional family law court process. This is because cases are resolved more quickly, and there is less need for lawyers to attend Court.
- Greater control: Parties to a DPL matter have greater control over the process. They can choose their own mediator and agree to consent orders at any time.
If you are considering separating from your partner and have no children, consider listing your matter under the DPL. It is a fast, efficient, and cost-effective way to resolve property disputes.
Introducing a New System
Before the Discrete Property List was introduced, individuals pursuing financial orders typically presented their cases to a Judge. The Magistrate often dealt with extensive duty lists, sometimes addressing over 25 cases daily. With the new system, straightforward property cases are now assigned to a Registrar instead of a Judge. The Registrar assumes the role of a case manager, generally overseeing the case until its conclusion or until it’s scheduled for a hearing. This approach aims to enhance the resolution of disputes through more focused case management.
Cases Handled on Discrete Property List (DPL)
The Discrete Property List is specifically dedicated to applications exclusively seeking financial orders and does not typically handle cases involving:
- Requests for parenting orders;
- Combined applications for parenting and property orders;
- Child support disputes;
- Matters of child maintenance or
- Applications regarding contraventions.
However, there are situations where a Registrar might transfer an application from the Discrete Property List to a Judge, such as:
- Emergency interim matters that parties can’t settle amicably;
- Instances of non-compliance with pertinent rules and/or orders; or
- Cases where previous attempts at dispute resolution have failed.
Want to Know More About Discrete Property List in Sydney?
Explore the intricacies of the Discrete Property List with Justice Family Lawyers, your Sydney-based legal experts! Navigate your financial disputes efficiently, avoiding the customary judicial congestion. Our seasoned professionals offer unparalleled guidance, keeping your case smoothly through this specialized approach. We’re committed to providing a streamlined, transparent experience in resolving your property matters.
Principal of Justice Family Lawyers, Hayder specialises in complex parenting and property family law matters. He is based in Sydney and holds a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Communications from UTS.
