Family Lawyers in Melbourne
Making difficult transitions easier for you, with over 40 years of experience.
- Your first appointment is free, face to face or on Zoom
- Your costs in writing before your matter begins
- Available 24/7 to discuss your matter
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Family law advice for separating couples and parents
Separating is one of the hardest things a family goes through. Our family lawyers and solicitors handle matrimonial and family law matters of every kind, from working out an agreement between you and your former partner, to representing you in complex divorce proceedings in court.
For over 40 years, we’ve helped Melbourne families resolve their matters in a practical, efficient way, so they can move on with their lives.
Family Law Matters We Can Help With
Divorce & Separation
Advice from the moment you separate, through to finalising your divorce.
Learn moreProperty Settlements
Dividing property and finances fairly, by agreement or through the court.
Learn moreParenting Arrangements
Where your children live, and time with each parent.
Ask us about thisChild Support
What each parent should contribute.
Ask us about thisSpousal Maintenance
Financial support between former partners.
Ask us about thisMediation
Reaching an agreement without going to court.
Learn moreIntervention Orders
Applying for, or responding to, an order.
Learn moreCourt Representation
Complex court proceedings, including trials.
Ask us about thisMemberships and accreditations
Family Law Section
What You Can Expect From Us
From your free first appointment through to the end of your matter.
Over 40 years of experience
We’ve been giving people practical, effective advice for more than four decades.
We listen before we advise
We take the time to understand your situation, then give you clear advice on the way forward.
Agreement where it’s possible
Where it’s possible, we’ll help you reach an agreement without going to court.
Court when it’s needed
When an agreement isn’t possible, we’ll represent you in court.
Costs in writing, and negotiable
You’ll know what your matter will cost before it begins.
Available 24/7
Communication is the cornerstone of our practice, so you can reach us when you need us.
Help with parenting arrangements for your children
Parents can rely on our experience when it comes to arrangements for their children. We’ll fight hard to make the system work for you.
We also understand that it’s often in your children’s best interests for parents to reach an agreement together, and we’ll help you get there wherever we can.
When emotions are running high, it can be hard to see a way forward. We do our best to make sure you’re seen in a fair light when it comes to your children’s best interests.
Talk to us about your childrenWhat You’ll Need to Work Out When You Separate
Every separation has important issues to settle. Usually these include:
- ?How your property and finances will be divided
- ?Where your children will live, and the time they spend with each parent
- ?How much child support should be paid, and by whom
- ?Whether spousal maintenance should be paid, and by whom
Most separating couples settle these by negotiating, or with the help of a mediator. If you can’t agree, you can ask the court to decide. At your free first appointment, we’ll listen to your situation and explain your options.
Book your free first appointment
Leave your details and we’ll call you back. Face to face or on Zoom.
Why work with Mirabella Farres Lawyers on your family law matter
For over 40 years, we’ve given Melbourne families practical, effective advice to resolve their matters efficiently, so they can move on with their lives.
- We’ll listen carefully to your concerns
- We’ll put your concerns fairly to the court
- We’ll fight hard to make the system work for you
- We’ll help you reach an agreement wherever it’s best for your children
- You’ll know your costs in writing before you start
Words From Our Clients
From 86 Google reviews
I went to Mirabellas in a desperate state after having not seen my daughter for 2 months. The court battle with my ex wife went for a total of 19 months…
I found that Mirabellas was extremely knowledgeable in family law issue. John in particular was very fair and supportive during a difficult period. John provides a tailored service.
Very professional and personalized service. Great communication, always kept me advised on what was happening and nothing was too hard for them to make it as easy as possible for me.
How Family Law Matters Are Usually Resolved
- STEP 1
Negotiating an agreement
Usually both of you negotiate and settle issues like property, support and arrangements for your children. We’ll negotiate on your behalf.
- STEP 2
Mediation, if it helps
A trained mediator can help you both reach an agreement. Your negotiated or mediated agreement can then be presented to the court.
- STEP 3
The court decides, if you can’t agree
If you’re unable to agree, you can ask the court to decide one or more of the issues. We’ll represent you in court.
Family Law Questions
Can’t see your question here? Call our office on 9898 3100. Your first appointment is free.
Book your free first appointmentWill my matter have to go to court?
Not always. Most separating couples settle by negotiating or through mediation. When court is needed, we have experience representing clients in complex proceedings, including trials.
Do you help with arrangements for children?
Yes. Parents can rely on our experience when it comes to arrangements for their children. We’ll fight hard for you, and help you reach an agreement where that’s best for your children.
How much will my matter cost?
Our costs are in line with the basic family law scale recommended by the Law Institute of Victoria, and can be negotiated depending on your circumstances. We’ll set them out in writing before your matter begins.
Is the first appointment really free?
Yes. Your first appointment with us is free, so you can talk through your matter and understand your options before deciding anything.
Can I meet with you on Zoom?
Yes. You can meet us face to face at our office on Albert Road in Melbourne, or on Zoom from wherever you are.
Can I contact you outside business hours?
Yes. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your matter. During business hours, call our office on 9898 3100. After hours, call 0448 667 008 (John, 24/7). During business hours you can also reach Catherine on 0421 840 185.
Our Pledge to You
- 1
No matter how complex or minor your matter, we will always strive to achieve the best possible result.
- 2
We will be available 24/7 to discuss your matter, as communication is the cornerstone of our practice.
- 3
Our costs will be disclosed to you in writing before your matter begins.
Other Areas of Practice
Divorce & Separation
Your solution for an uncomplicated divorce or separation.
Learn moreProperty Disputes
We are renowned for fair resolutions on your property.
Learn moreWills, Estates & Probate
Help with estate planning, wills, probate, powers of attorney and more.
Learn moreMediation
Helping you reach an agreement without going to court.
Learn moreIntervention Orders
Advice if you need to apply for, or respond to, an intervention order.
Learn more
Talk to us about your family law matter
Your first appointment is free, face to face or on Zoom.