The expression “100 points of ID” describes one method organisations may use to verify identity. It is not a universal requirement for every family law appointment, and the documents accepted can vary between a law firm, court, bank, conveyancer or government agency.
Do I need 100 points of ID to see a family lawyer?
For an initial appointment, you will usually be asked for enough identification to confirm who you are and allow the firm to complete its client-verification and conflict-checking obligations. The firm will tell you if a formal identity check or certified copies are required for a particular transaction.
A current passport or Australian driver licence is often the most useful starting point. If your current name differs from the name on older records, also bring the document that explains the change, such as a marriage certificate or change-of-name certificate.
Do not email original identity documents unless the firm has asked you to use an approved secure process.
What documents should I bring to my first appointment?
Identity is only one part of preparing for useful family law advice. Bring or provide copies of the documents that relate to the immediate issue.
For separation and divorce matters, useful documents may include:
- your marriage certificate, if applicable;
- any existing court orders, agreements or parenting plans;
- letters or emails from another lawyer;
- intervention orders or relevant police documents; and
- a short chronology containing the relationship, separation and court dates.
For property matters, bring a practical summary of assets, liabilities, income and superannuation. Recent bank statements, mortgage statements, tax returns, business records and superannuation statements can help identify what information is still required.
For parenting matters, bring existing orders, parenting plans, relevant school or medical information and a concise summary of the present care arrangements. Focus on information that helps explain the current arrangements, areas of disagreement and any urgent safety issues.
What if court documents have just been served?
Send the complete documents to the firm as soon as possible and identify any hearing date or response deadline. Do not wait until every supporting document has been collected. The first priority is understanding what the documents require and whether urgent action is needed.
Our urgent court document advice page explains the immediate next steps. For broader preparation, see our separation and divorce service.
This article provides general information only. Identification requirements and the documents needed for advice depend on the matter and the organisation requesting them.