You have a difficult family law act issue and you don’t know any experienced family lawyers. Where do you begin? It can seem daunting at first. You don’t want to make the wrong choice and risk spending months of your life and thousands of dollars on the wrong firm. Here’s where we can help. With many years of experience in the field, we understand what makesgood family lawyers in Brisbane. To help you on your journey, we’ve compiled a list of seven firms we believe can give you the help you need quickly and affordably.
A note before we begin
You may have reached this page by searching for something like “Best Brisbane family lawyers”. We understand why it makes sense to look for this on Google or Bing. However, this can lead to misleading results. There’s a lot that goes into family law act representation. It’s such a broad and complex field that the question is which lawyer is correct for you. That’s not an answer we can give definitively with an objective list. However, what we can do is provide a selection of law firms we recommend based on general considerations. Look at this article as a useful starting point to explore who you feel will represent you best.
With that in mind, here are seven Brisbane family law firms we recommend in no particular order.
If you’re new to finding a family law solicitor or want to learn more, we recommend you read this guide on how to find the right solicitor in Brisbane.
Summary Review of the Best Family Lawyers in Brisbane
We are biased because we genuinely believe in delivering results-driven services to you. We will help you understand whether you even need a family lawyer.
1. Andrews Family Lawyers
(Results Driven)
Andrews Family Lawyers has been practising in North Brisbane since 2013. Peter Andrews is dedicated to providing honest, practical advice. They specialise in property settlements, parenting arrangements, dispute resolution, consent orders, and divorce. Their firm delivers practical solutions quickly and with minimal cost. Andrews Family Lawyers has an outstanding record in achieving positive outcomes.
With over 20 years’ of family law experience, you can trust them to represent you effectively. Still not sure? Call for a free initial consultation first. They’re perfect for clients wanting straightforward, expert advice on complex family matters.
They are committed to empowering clients and affordable legal services. This is what makes them among the best family lawyers in Brisbane. Over a thousand happy clients can’t be wrong.
Practice area
Family law
Domestic violence services
Best Points
Family Law Expertise. With over 20 years of experience, they have a deep understanding of all family law matters.
Honest, Practical Advice. They prioritise clear, straightforward advice. They offer practical solutions for all of their clients.
Free Initial Consultation. A free initial phone consultation gives you a risk-free access to an accredited family law specialist.
Specialisation in Property and Parenting. They excel in property settlements and child-focused parenting arrangements. They ensure cooperative outcomes.
Efficient and Cost-Effective. Their approach is aimed at delivering solutions promptly at little expense to clients.
Best for
Those seeking clear, actionable guidance on family law matters. Do you want practical outcomes? Andrew Family Lawyers are for you.
Key services
Property and financial settlements.
Child custody and binding financial agreements.
Family Court representation
What their clients say
Clients are consistent in their praise. Andrews Family Lawyers operates with the utmost professionalism and provide clear communication. Clients are impressed at their ability to navigate complex legal matters easily.
They ensure clients are well-informed at all times. The team’s dedicated to clear, concise advice, which is appreciated by everyone they work with. They enable clients to navigate challenging family law situations. A client-centred approach makes Andrews Family Lawyers stand out in a competitive field.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Your open and honest demeanour helped my ex-partner and I to expediently resolve our financial situation so we can move forward with our lives.
– Chris Monteiro
Peter was professional, straightforward, insightful and best of all had a realistic plan to achieve an outcome.
– David Edwards
2. Michael Lynch Family Lawyers
Michael Lynch Family Lawyers is a leading Brisbane family law firm. Their specialisation extends across decades. Their innovative solutions, like “bird-nesting” in parenting arrangements, have made them a renowned team. The firm is no stranger to complex cases. Issues like false abuse allegations in parenting matters are agonising. But, with their guidance, clients have pulled through these situations.
The Michael Lynch team has specific experience handling property settlements involving farmers and landowners. Farmers have unique concerns when facing a property settlement during a divorce. Farmers may be asset-rich but income-poor. This doesn’t need to necessitate the sale of the family farm. Michael Lynch Family Lawyers can help find a solution.
Their firm holds educational webinars on topics such as property settlements and child custody. They can also host hour-long seminars for businesses tailored to specific needs. They are truly one of Brisbane’s best family law firms.
Practice area
Family law
Adoption
Domestic violence services
Best points
Innovative Solutions. They offer unique arrangements like “bird-nesting” for children after separation. This keeps disruptions to a minimum.
Handling Complex Cases. They have extensive experience with sensitive cases such as false sexual abuse allegations.
Wide Range of Services.
They provide comprehensive family law services. This includes specialised areas like farming, rural, and regional family law.
Best for
Individuals needing compassionate, specialised advice for family transitions. They are particularly adept at handling cases involving children’s living arrangements.
Key services
Parenting arrangements.
Property settlement.
Handling false abuse allegations in family disputes.
Divorce and separation.
Rural and regional services.
What their clients say
Their clients all rave about their expertise and empathetic approach. They ensure clients feel heard and supported at all times. The team’s constant availability is important to keeping clients updated and comfortable with how their case is progressing.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Susan Miranda was calm, practical, and thorough. She was also incredibly diligent. I always knew where my case was at, and that I could reach her in an emergency. It was a complex and stressful matter with lots of moving (international) parts. Susan was well across it all and knew the right people to bring in too.
– Jo B
If you’re unsure how to find the right solicitor in Brisbane, this guide will walk you through the key steps to make the best choice for your legal needs.
3. Emerson Family Law
Emerson Family Law is a boutique law firm in Brisbane. Few firms can match their expertise in complex family law cases. They offer services in divorce, child custody, and property settlements. They are compassionate and empathetic. Every client leaves their office feeling understood and supported.
They are discreet, diligent, and personalised in their services delivery. Their team aims for optimal outcomes in every case. Over 95% of their high-stakes cases are settled without court involvement. This is a very impressive record that shows their commitment to client empowerment. All of this is available with transparent fees.
Their team is highly experienced with the complexities of international custody cases, whether or not the foreign country in question is a signatory to the Hague Convention. They also provide fixed-fee town agency services for other firms. Their convenient location in Brisbane’s CBD gives them easy access to key legal institutions. It’s little wonder we consider them one of Brisbane’s best family law firms.
Practice area
Family law
Domestic violence services
Best points
Specialisation in Complex Cases. Few can handle intricate cases as well as Emerson Family Law. This is especially true for cases involving international jurisdictions. Every client received a tailored solution.
High Settlement Rate without Court. Over 95% of their high-stake family cases are settled out of court. This demonstrates their effective negotiation and mediation skills.
Collaboration with a Professional Network. Their partnership with professionals across different fields is a major asset. These collaborations provide a holistic support system.
Best for
Clients looking for an empathetic and strategic family lawyer. They are ideal for parties involved in complex asset divisions or international family law matters.
Key services
Divorce and separation guidance.
Collaborative law and mediation.
Complex property settlements.
Town agency services.
What their clients say
Their communication skills are second to none. Clients never cease to be amazed by the team’s ability to demystify intricate legal scenarios. Clients are always clear on their options. This clarity is crucial to clients facing cross-border legal challenges.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
The consultation was extremely honest, helpful, informative and professional. Right after the consultation Gavin sent me email straight away with the detailed answers to all my questions.
– Christine Ying Ding
4. Barton Family Lawyers
Barton Family Lawyers, led by Courtney Barton, practises in all areas of family law. Are you dealing with separation, divorce, asset division, child custody or other matter? Barton Family Lawyers can help. They achieve fair outcomes in children’s best interests. Clients appreciate their strategic and solution-focused approach. No two cases are handled the same way. Their team tailors every service to individual cases.
The firm comes with over 50 years of combined experience. You can be sure of their expert advice and efficient service. Every case is handled with a view to minimising delays and reducing costs. All of their clients are treated with clear communication and transparent fixed-fees. They are one of the most trusted legal voices in their community. While complex cases prove challenging to some firms, Barton Family Lawyers is always up for the task.
Courtney Barton is a nationally accredited mediator and family dispute practitioner with 14 years of experience. She’s dealt with mediations involving difficult parties. For example, cases that include issues like narcissistic abuse are notoriously tricky. However, Courtney’s team ensures clients remain empowered and informed.
Practice area
Family law
Domestic violence services
Best Points
Fixed-Fee Structure. They offer fixed fee services tailored to specific needs. This provides better cost control.
Collaborative Team Approach. Their team collaborates on each case to deliver the best possible outcomes. Every client benefits from the team’s many decades of experience.
Client-Centric Service. They prioritise clear communication, fee transparency, and indepth advice. Their approach is determined by the individual needs of each client.
Best for
Anyone facing challenging family disputes. When you need representation that focuses on children’s safety and well-being, choose Barton Family Lawyers.
Key services
Child custody and support negotiations.
Divorce and separation guidance.
Domestic violence and protection orders.
Child relocation services.
What their clients say
All clients are reassured by the dedicated support they receive. Clients feel genuinely cared for. Everyone agrees on the team’s tireless advocacy for their interests. Clients need to know that their lawyer has their best interests at heart. Barton Family Lawyers responds to any concern their clients have with expertise.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Courtney Certainly knows her job & nothing was ever a problem anytime I called about an issue, uncertainty or concerns for Courtney, George and Tenayah.
– Tami Pace
5. Kate Austin Family Law
There are many reasons why hundreds of clients choose Kate Austin Family Law. Here’s just a taste. Their firm offers fixed fees across all of their services. You’ll never have any confusion about what the process will cost. Even in complex cases, the Kate Austin team handles the process in a hassle-free way. This reduces their clients’ stress and allows them to focus on getting on with their lives.
Many people wonder how Kate Austin Family Law is able to provide effective service with such low fees. There’s a simple reason. Their approach is centred entirely around mediation and cooperation. Their services are meant only for those who are looking for out-of-court solutions. This innovative approach encourages clients to find common ground.
Kate Austin Family Law is also experienced in the nuances of dealing with defined benefit military superannuation splitting for military superannuation consent orders. Over 20 years and hundreds of court orders regarding super splitting for members of the Australian Defence Force, their team is the best in the business.
Practice area
Family law
Best Points
Low fees. Many firms claim to have low fees. Kate Austin actually delivers. The best part is the firm doesn’t sacrifice service quality.
Out-of-court focus. Few firms have such an intense focus on finding agreement-based solutions.
Efficient Service. They have streamlined their services to remove all the hassle often faced by clients.
Best for
Kate Austin’s services are designed solely for clients who are prepared to find agreement without court intervention.
Key services
Property Settlement Consent Orders.
Parenting Consent Orders.
Combined Property and Parenting Consent Orders.
Superannuation Splitting Orders.
Divorce Applications (for clients).
What their clients say
Clients are always impressed by Kate Austin’s efficient and low-cost service. They appreciate the team’s ability to resolve family law issues quickly. Settling cases without drawn-out court proceedings allows the Kate Austin Family Law team to prevent clients from accruing unnecessary legal fees. This also keeps the emotional toll of family law issues to a minimum.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Brendan and Rachel at Kate Austin Family Law provided us with an extremely efficient and cost effective solution to what could have been a costly and drawn out process. Would recommend without hesitation.
– Carol McGarrigle
New to the process of selecting legal help? Read our guide on how to find the right solicitor in Brisbane and make an informed decision.
6. Cudmore Legal
Over the years, Cudmore Legal’s family law team has grown to become one of the largest in Brisbane. That’s for good reason. They have developed a streamlined process for their services which saves their clients considerable frustration often felt in family law issues.
Cudmore Legal’s core values encompass a number of principles. They pride themselves on a mediation-first approach which is designed to maximise positive outcomes at minimal cost. However, they are always prepared to represent clients in litigation if necessary. As the firm says: “Focus on settlement, prepare for litigation”. Their transparent fee structure offers great flexibility so clients don’t have to fret about legal costs while focused on their case.
Cudmore Legal is ideally placed to handle any family law matter you may be dealing with. They can prepare clients for any contingency in property settlements, custody disputes, mediation sessions, etc. All of this considered, we understand why they’re a 2022 Client Choice Awards winner.
Practice area
Family law
Domestic violence services
Best Points
Flexible payment options. Few family law solicitors are prepared to offer the breadth of payment options that Cudmore Legal offers.
Extensive team. Cudmore Legal can bring considerable resources to bear on behalf of a client. Their team represents specialised expertise in all areas of practice.
Complete service delivery. Cudmore Legal provides services across all aspects of family law. Their firm can resolve any matter a client is dealing with.
Best for
Clients needing comprehensive support from an experienced team, with access to flexible payment options.
Key services
Financial Separation (Property Settlement).
Parenting Arrangements and Child Custody.
Mediation Representation.
Binding Financial Agreements.
Divorce Applications.
Court Representation.
Consent Orders.
Domestic Violence Orders.
Prenuptial Agreements.
What their clients say
Cudmore Legal’s clients consistently praise their professionalism and open communication. The team is always available and operates efficiently. Their team is available to provide services beyond family law matters. Handling an estate after death presents a closely related set of issues. The Cudmore Legal team can organise these arrangements for your family without stress.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Cudmore legal provided me with an efficient and cost effective service for personal will and estate needs. The process was easy with great communication between client and the legal team. Thanks very much for a great experience.
– V Skehan
7. Grace Family and Collaborative Law
Grace Family and Collaborative Law approach family law matters in a unique way. They want to change the narrative around family law to create a more positive and future-oriented mindset. For example, they view the word “divorce” as another way of saying “new beginnings”.
While their main office is in Brisbane, they can provide legal advice and support to anyone in Australia to help begin legal proceedings. They have a strongly collaborative approach that focuses on finding amicable solutions. With excellent communication and constructive mediation, their firm has helped countless clients reclaim their lives.
Grace Family and Collaborative Law has a unique fee structure. The firm will work with its clients to settle on a final price for their services. Your fee is custom-made to the specifics of your case. This prevents you from paying a cent more for work that doesn’t need to be done.
Best Points
Collaborative approach. Instead of pointing fingers and assigning blame, Grace Family and Collaborative Law keeps everyone focused on coming to a mutual agreement.
Innovative mindset. The firm has a fresh take on family law. They encourage their clients to see the legal process as the start of a new chapter in life.
Wide availability. They are a Brisbane-based firm, but can provide meaningful advice and support to anyone in Australia.
Flexible pricing. The firm will tailor its legal fees to the specific work that’s needed for a client’s case.
Practice area
Family law
Estate law
Domestic violence services
Best for
Clients who are looking to minimise conflict and take a collaborative approach to handling their legal matter.
Key services
Collaborative Law.
Mediation.
Divorce.
Separation.
Property Settlement.
Children’s Issues including Child Support.
Spousal Maintenance.
Binding Financial Agreements (Pre-nuptial Agreements).
Domestic Violence.
What their clients say
Clients unanimously attest to the firm’s caring and empathetic approach. Everything they do is directed towards finding positive solutions. Grace Family and Collaborative Law is focused entirely on providing both legal and emotional support in a professional setting. Their commitment to resolving disputes amicably allows clients to approach mediation constructively.
Here’s what their clients are saying:
Patient, Caring, Guiding, Supportive and Professional, are just some words to describe the service I received from Tarryn and Sumen.
– Margaret
Looking for the right legal support? Our guide on how to find the right solicitor in Brisbane will help you navigate the process with confidence.
What makes an effective family law firm?
High-quality family law firm excel in certain key areas, including the following.
Expertise and specialisation
Accredited family law specialists undergo additional training and certification. This continuous education shows a commitment to staying at the cutting edge of the field.Experience
Long-standing family law firms deal with a wide range of cases. These will include complex and high-conflict situations. This depth of experience provides clients with the best solutions no matter what their case involves.Client-centred approach
Family law matters are often sensitive and emotional. A great firm doesn’t just provide legal expertise. The best lawyers know how to provide emotional support, and understanding. Their strategy depends on the needs of each client.Communication
Clear and timely communication is crucial. Clients should understand their options. If their unsure of how any legal processes work, or are confused by terminology, your lawyer should make sure you know exactly what is happening.Negotiation and mediation skills
Ideally, family lawyers in Brisbane matters are resolved outside of court. This requires good negotiation and mediation skills. Successful mediation leads to more amicable settlements. This goes a long way to preserving relationships. This is especially important for co-parents.Litigation skills
Strong advocacy and litigation skills are essential in court. A firm with a successful track record is a significant asset. A well-prepared firm makes the process as smooth as possible.Ethical practice
A law firm’s reputation is everything. They must adhere to ethical standards and maintain confidentiality. A firm must always avoid conflicts of interest.Accessibility
Some clients are happy to let their lawyer handle situations. Others prefer to be updated regularly. Lawyers should understand what their clients need in terms of availability. Flexible meeting times and open communication channels are critical.Cost transparency
A great family law firm is upfront about its fee structures and provides transparent billing practices. Clients should have a clear idea of what their case is likely to cost.Community reputation
A firm’s reputation among its peers and past clients reflects its professionalism. It also shows the quality of its services.Resources and support
Top law firms have a network of professionals such as psychologists, social workers, and financial advisors. Clients can receive comprehensive support that extends beyond legal assistance.Innovative practices
Utilising the latest technology for case management and alternative dispute resolution methods can improve client efficiency and outcomes.
Conclusion
In summary, these are the top 4 family law firms in Brisbane in no particular order:
- Andrews Family Lawyers
- Michael Lynch Family Lawyers
- Emerson Family Law
- Barton Family Lawyers
- Kate Austin Family Law
- Cudmore Legal
- Grace Family and Collaborative Law
If you need assistance with family law matters, Andrews Family Lawyers can help.
