Family Law
Family law advice you can rely on.
Separation and family breakdowns are among the most emotionally and financially overwhelming experiences a person can face. They affect not just your legal position, but your children, your home, your financial security, and your future.
During times like these, you need more than legal advice. You need strategy, clarity, and steady guidance from an experienced specialist.
Our Principal Solicitor is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law with over 20 years of experience in this complex area. We support individuals and families across the Gold Coast, Australia-wide and internationally with practical, tailored advice to help them move forward with confidence.
Every ending deserves a new beginning.
We are here to help. Call 07 5530 5700.
Resolving family matters with care and expertise.
Common Questions:
How is property divided after separation?
Both married and de facto couples in Australia are entitled to a just and equitable division of property (which does not always mean equal). The Court considers a range of factors, including:
- Contributions made by each party (financial and non-financial)
- Length of the relationship
- Care of children
- Future needs, including health and age of each party
How can I formalise a property settlement?
Property settlements can be formalised in several ways:
- Binding Financial Agreements (BFA): Private agreements that set out how property and finances will be managed
- Consent Orders: Court-approved agreements that are legally enforceable without attending court
Court Orders: Where agreement cannot be reached between parties
Are interests in family trusts considered “property” in property settlements?
Yes. In Woodcock (No.2) [2022] FedCFam, the Court held that interests in discretionary family trusts can be treated as property and included in the asset pool. This means complex financial structures such as trusts and company interests may be considered when dividing assets.
Can my former partner hide superannuation in a property settlement?
No. Parties can apply to the Court to obtain details of a former partner’s superannuation through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This ensures transparency and supports a fair division of assets.
How are family pets treated under the law?
Pets are no longer treated simply as property. If parties cannot agree, the Court considers:
- The welfare of the animal
- Any history of abuse or threatening behaviour
- The emotional connection between the pet and each party or their children
The Court will not order shared ownership. The focus is on the welfare of the animal and a clean separation between parties.
What our clients say:
Thank you Amanda. Your clear and concise advice and correspondence has helped me to navigate this unknown territory.
Franck - Moore Park Beach
Thank you very much for your excellent work.
James - ACT
I would like to highlight RobertsLaw during my divorce proceedings. Their professionalism, diligence, empathy, and communication was key to a successful outcome. I have to emphasise that the attorney reduced my stress during a very painful time.
Elmer - USA
I would like to say thank you for all the assistance and empathy that you have shown the whole family during the very stressful situation that we have found ourselves in over the past eight months.
Melinda - Burleigh Heads
To the great team at Robert’s Law
Thank you helping me change the Title deed of the property I was selling.
The time was short but you went out of your way to get it all done on time.
The staff was very friendly and they were so good to help me.
Very grateful for your great help.
Catharina - Mudgeeraba