Methodology
How the work is carried out.
Each engagement begins with an enquiry — by phone or in writing — in which the client describes their situation and what they are looking for. The practice responds with an explanation of how it might assist and what the process would involve, at no charge and with no commitment required at that stage.
Where the client wishes to proceed, the scope of the engagement and the fee are confirmed in writing before any work begins. Meetings are arranged at a pace that allows reflection between sessions. Written materials are shared before meetings where possible, so that the meeting itself can address questions rather than introducing new information under time pressure.
The engagement closes when the client has the document or advice they came for and is confident in its meaning. A copy of all documents produced is provided to the client for their own records.
Service 01
Advisory on Child Support Arrangements
Advisory work specific to child support arrangements, whether being established for the first time, renegotiated in light of changed circumstances, or documented for clarity between parents who already have an informal understanding. The engagement is conducted with care for the children's interests and respect for both parents' positions.
Written material is prepared in plain language that remains meaningful as the family's circumstances evolve over the coming years. The aim is an arrangement that the parents can read, understand, and refer to independently — not one that requires a solicitor to interpret whenever a question arises.
What this engagement covers
- Review of existing informal or formal arrangement
- Drafting of a written child support agreement in plain English
- Advice on how Malaysian law governs child maintenance obligations
- Inclusion of provisions for foreseeable changes (schooling stages, relocation)
- Guidance on how to approach renegotiation if circumstances change significantly
Typical Duration
Two to three meetings over approximately four to six weeks, depending on the complexity of the arrangement and the degree of prior agreement between the parties.
Advisory Fee
From RM 1,380
How the process typically unfolds
Initial enquiry
You describe the situation and what you are looking for. No charge at this stage.
First meeting — fact-finding
We discuss the current arrangement, what each parent needs, and what the children's circumstances require.
First draft prepared and shared
A draft agreement is sent to the client to read at their own pace before the next meeting.
Review meeting and amendments
Questions from both parties addressed; adjustments made where appropriate.
Final document delivered
Both parties receive a copy. The engagement is complete when each party is confident in its meaning.
What the drafting process involves
Initial enquiry — typically from one party
We discuss what the agreement is intended to cover and the appropriate timing.
Separate meetings with each party where preferred
Each party's position and concerns are understood before drafting begins.
Draft prepared and shared
Time is provided for each party to consider the draft independently, including with their own adviser.
Revisions and final review
Amendments discussed; the final document confirmed when both parties are satisfied.
Service 02
Preparation of Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Documents
Preparation of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial documents for couples wishing to record considered arrangements about property, responsibilities, or future contingencies. The work is conducted in a private and respectful setting, with time allowed for conversation between meetings and with independent advice encouraged where appropriate.
The drafting process is unhurried, and the final document is intended to be clear, durable, and workable in practice. An agreement drafted here does not require a solicitor to interpret it each time a question arises — the language is chosen so that both parties can read it and understand what they agreed.
What this engagement covers
- Consultation on scope and content of the agreement
- Drafting of the agreement in clear, readable English
- Support for independent legal review by either party
- Revisions following review by either or both parties
- Final signed copies provided to each party
Typical Duration
Four to eight weeks, with time built in for each party to consider the draft independently. A tighter timeline is possible where both parties are aligned and have discussed the matter beforehand.
Preparation Fee
From RM 2,680
Service 03
Consultation on Adoption Proceedings
Consultation for individuals or couples considering adoption proceedings under the applicable Malaysian framework. The consultation explains the procedural route, the documentation typically required, and the expected duration and points of decision. The conversation at the consultation stage is exploratory, and the client is offered time to reflect before considering any next step.
Where the client wishes to proceed, representation in the subsequent proceedings can be arranged in a careful and considerate manner. Familis assists with the preparation and assembly of the documentation required for the court and registration stages, and attends the relevant hearings on the client's behalf.
What this engagement covers
- Explanation of the Malaysian adoption framework (Adoption Act 1952)
- Checklist of documentation required at each stage
- Timeline outline covering court and registration stages
- Option to proceed with full representation in proceedings
- Assistance preparing documentation for court and the Register of Adoptions
Typical Duration
The initial consultation is typically a single meeting. Full adoption proceedings under Malaysian law typically take between six and twelve months, depending on the court's schedule and the documentation assembled.
Consultation Fee
From RM 1,240
The adoption process in outline
Exploratory consultation
You describe your circumstances and what you are hoping to achieve. We explain the legal route and what it involves.
Time to reflect
No next step is required immediately. The consultation is exploratory; the decision to proceed remains entirely with you.
Documentation preparation
Where you choose to proceed, we assist in assembling and reviewing the required documentation.
Court proceedings
Familis attends the relevant hearings on your behalf and guides you through each stage.
Registration
Finalisation of registration requirements under the Registration of Adoptions Act 1952.
Comparison
Which service applies to your situation.
| Feature | Child Support | Nuptial Documents | Adoption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting fee | RM 1,380 | RM 2,680 | RM 1,240 |
| Involves court proceedings | — | — | |
| Written agreement produced | — | ||
| Exploration before committing | |||
| Best for | Separated or divorcing parents | Couples planning to marry or recording arrangements after marriage | Individuals or couples considering formal adoption |
Professional Standards
The principles that apply across all three services.
Legal professional privilege
All communications are confidential from the first contact. Nothing you say in the course of an enquiry or engagement leaves the practice.
No charge for the initial enquiry
Describing your situation and receiving a response about how we might assist carries no financial obligation of any kind.
Written fee confirmation before work begins
The scope and fee for each engagement are stated in writing and agreed before any billable work commences. There are no additions without prior written agreement.
Not sure which service applies? Ask us.
Describe your situation in a few words and we will respond with what we can do and how we would go about it. No obligation at this stage.
Send an Enquiry