April 29, 2024
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Family Law
17 mins read

10 Best Gold Coast Family Lawyers (40 Family Lawyers Reviewed)

You might have landed on this page because you search ‘Family Lawyers Gold Coast’. Many might ask how you decide which family law firm is right for you.

Before you read on, we wanted you to understand that we don’t believe a firm is the best or perfect family law firm on the Gold Coast. We have written this article to help save you time doing the research yourself. If you’re still unsure after reading this blog, call our office, and we will help you understand whether you need a lawyer.

Quickfind Summary

Shanahan Family Law

You may think we’re biased for including our firm on the list. We don’t claim to be the best family law firm on the Gold Coast. However, what we can guarantee is a singular focus on your wellbeing through expert and compassionate guidance.

BGM Family Lawyers
Pharmacis Canning Lawyers
Macgregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors
Arcuri Turnbull Law
Bennett Carroll Solicitors
Affinity Lawyers

Let’s get to the list.

We’ve reviewed over 30 family law firms on the Gold Coast, and found seven we highly recommend.

Here are our picks for the seven best family law firms on the Gold Coast.

Top 10 Gold Coast Family Lawyers

1. Shanahan Family Law (Results Driven)

Luke Shanahan has over 15 years of experience. Since 2008, he’s effectively represented clients across all areas of family law. Shanahan Family Law has always focused on settling family law matters without conflict.

Their approach finds opportunities for mediation and avoids court action whenever possible. This is an important priority in any family law matter. This has made them one of the most trusted firms on the Gold Coast.

What clients are saying

They took me under their wing from the moment I walked through the door, and I felt safe, supported, heard, informed and above all I never felt alone.
– Stacy Holmes-Brown

Luke and his team doesn’t just represent their clients legally. You will receive emotional support and an empathetic approach to your case. Luke’s years of experience enables him to break down complex legal issues to ensure clients are aware of their situation and the path forward.

Making clients feel heard is often overlooked by lawyers. Giving them a sense of control helps clients feel secure in the representation. Shanahan Family Law excels in all these aspects, making them a favoured law firm in Southport.

Best for

Many individuals are experiencing particularly stressful family law issues. Shanahan Family Law is ideally placed to provide empathetic and effective representation with as little conflict as possible.

Services

Divorce & Separation
Property Settlement
Child Custody
Domestic Violence
Mediation
Parental Disputes
Parenting Arrangements
Spousal Maintenance
Binding Financial Agreements

2. BGM Family Lawyers

BGM Family Lawyers is committed to providing compassionate support to their clients. They focus on mediation and cooperation to save clients the hardship of litigation.

The firm’s director, Dan Bottrell, has over 20 years of experience in family law. Dan has received numerous honours. Doyle’s Guide nominated him as one of their “pre-eminent” lawyers every year between 2016 and 2021. The Guide also recognised him as a “leading” lawyer in high-value and complex property cases in Regional Queensland in 2019, 2020, and 2021. To give back to his profession, Dan supervises students studying family law at Bond University.

What clients are saying

Dan & Georgia guided me through my separation with expert knowledge and genuine care every step of the way. Whilst my situation was difficult and delicate, I felt safe and supported throughout.
– Lauren Kate

Clients can receive high-quality legal assistance across a range of family law areas. Whether you’re working through a divorce, parenting arrangements, or property matters, BGM Family Lawyers will assist. With Dan’s years of experience, they ensure that clients like Lauren receive satisfactory outcomes in difficult circumstances.

Best for

Clients needing personalised service across any area of family law can rely on BGM Family Lawyers.

Services

Parenting & Custody Arrangements
Property Settlements
Separation and Divorce
Prenuptial Agreements
Family Dispute Resolution

3. Pharmacis Canning Lawyers

Pharmacis Canning Lawyers’ team has experience spanning decades. Their tailored advice provides clients with a personal and empathetic approach. They want to provide services to the whole community and offer flexible payment options for clients.

Constantine Pharmacis, the firm’s principal lawyer, has experience in all aspects of family law and business law. Constantine is a passionate advocate for his local community. He serves as the Robina Community Legal Centre’s treasurer and was awarded “Volunteer of the Year” in 2018 by the Centre.

What clients are saying

I have had the privilege of having quite involved legal work carried out by George Pharmacis of Pharmacis Canning Lawyers and I could not rate him, and his professional and friendly team, highly enough.
– Rosemary Paton

Family law cases can often include complexities that make finding resolutions a long and laborious issue. When you work with a firm like Pharmacis Canning Lawyers, you can be confident that your case is safe. Regardless of the complexities involved, their family law team can protect your interests.

Best for

Constantine Pharmacis’ depth of experience and community focus makes him an excellent option for clients dealing with complex cases.

Services

Divorce & family law
Property law
Criminal and traffic law
Wills and estate planning
Civil disputes and litigation
Business and commercial law

4. Macgregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors

Macgregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors represents its clients with integrity and transparency. Their focus is on providing a pragmatic approach to family law issues. They seek to resolve disputes collaboratively to reduce costs and conflict.

Their services extend beyond family law. Do you need assistance with buying or selling a property? Do you need to review a business contract or a new will? Their team handles conveyancing, estate planning, commercial law, and more.

What clients are saying

I have been a client of MacGregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors in Surfers Paradise for more than 20 years. In that time the firm have provided myself and my family members, friendly and professional service in a number of facet’s of everyday life.
– Wayne Nolan

Macgregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors approaches each case with a desire to secure results quickly and as painlessly as possible. They can achieve this through sensible legal strategies that can be tailored to any number of cases.

Best for

Anyone looking for collaborative representation should look to Macgregor O’Reilly Nash Solicitors for guidance. Their experienced family law solicitors can assist with a broad array of matters.

Services

Family Law
Property Conveyancing
Leasing and Licences
Property Development
Mortgages, Securities and Finance
Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Corporate and Commercial
Wills and Estates

5. Arcuri Turnbull Law

Family law is a stressful time. Arcuri Turnbull Law always centralise their clients’ comfort and reduce their anxiety. For the last 40 years, they’ve served Miami on the Gold Coast, through their proactive and innovative approach to their clients’ legal needs.

Beyond family law, they work on conveyancing, wills and estates, and business and commercial law. This breadth of experience allows them to take a more nuanced approach to family law. For example, their understanding of conveyancing and estate law positions them to navigate complex property settlements more efficiently.

What clients are saying

Aimee at Arcuri Turnbull Law did a great job for us especially when things became complex. Highly professional and kept us fully informed of progress right up to settlement.
– John Coxon

The Arcuri Turnbull Law can leverage its expertise across different legal fields to manage complex cases and ensure clients understand their position and how the process will work.

Best for

Arcuri Turnbull Law is well-placed to assist clients with cases that benefit from experience across several different law specialties.

Services

Family Law
Conveyancing
Business and Commercial Law
Wills and Estate Laws
Litigation

6. Bennett Carroll Solicitors

Bennett Carroll Solicitors offer a full suite of services that serve the entirety of their clients’ divorce journey. They have particular expertise in handling property matters that involve complicated business assets. Through their professional connections with accountancy firms and other experts allows them to assist with the most difficult business asset valuations and divisions.

In addition to their family law work, they cover many other areas. They are experienced in commercial law, estate law, and conveyancing.

What clients are saying

I was very impressed with the level of service I received at Bennet Carroll Solicitors. Alex was a pleasure to deal with from initial contact all the way through to settlement. Excellent communication, knowledgeable and efficient.
– Cheena Elise

When you’re dealing with tricky property matters, you need a lawyer who can handle specialist property matters. Bennett Carroll Solicitors will use their extensive expertise to help you manage asset negotiations.

Best for

Clients who are looking for a full suite of family law services with particular expertise in property matters involving business interests.

Services

Family Law
Wills and Estates
Conveyancing
Commercial and Business
Criminal and Litigation

7. Affinity Lawyers

Affinity Lawyers has become an important voice in the Gold Coast community. They have a reputation for delivering consistently excellent results for their clients. Their success hinges on a resolution-based approach. This lowers expenses and reduces emotional hardships. Their collaborative method uses various experts to provide holistic legal advice.

While they’re experienced with the Family Law Act, their expertise extends to estate law, business law, conveyancing, and employment law.

What clients are saying

I used Affinity for advice on a financial agreement and also to draw up a will. Excellent friendly service on both counts and at a price which was very reasonable compared with other quotes I had received.
– Nick Brockett

Affinity Lawyers can provide independent legal advice on a range of areas related to family law. Being able to offer these services cost-effectively has made Affinity Lawyers an important voice for their community.

Best for

Anyone who wants easily accessible legal advice that utilises the expertise of various specialists to settle any family law concern.

Services

Commercial and Business Law
Employment Law, Workplace Relations and OH&S
Family Lawyer, Divorce Law and De Facto Relationships
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Property Law, Conveyancing and Real Estate
Wills, Probate and Asset Protection

8. Collective Family Law Group

Collective Family Law Group distinguishes itself on the Gold Coast with specialised, comprehensive legal services. They focus exclusively on family law. They ensure robust solutions and compassionate support for challenging circumstances. Their commitment to achieving quick, effective resolutions and maintaining high client satisfaction rates cements their place on this list.

Best part

They provide a free initial consultation. This helps clearly outline your legal position without pressure.

Best for

Great for individuals needing expert guidance. Especially useful for property settlements or child custody.

Key services

Property division and settlements
Child custody and parenting arrangements
Separation and divorce
Prenuptial agreements
Family dispute resolution
Handling domestic violence cases
Family court procedures
International family law matters

9. Fedorov Family Lawyers

Fedorov Family Lawyers is located on the Gold Coast and serves areas including Brisbane and Byron Bay. It’s known for its expert handling of family law matters. They provide out-of-court solutions to avoid the complexities of litigation. Their dedicated team is recognised for their professionalism and empathetic approach. Their commitment to empowering clients through difficult times makes them a standout choice.

Best part

They offer mediation services using Family Mediation Station’s Divorce in a Day service. This approach is faster and more cost-effective.

Best for

Best suited for those seeking efficient, non-confrontational resolutions. They can work with clients in Southeast Queensland and Northern New South Wales.

Key services

Divorce and property settlements
Parenting issues
Prenuptial agreements
De facto relationship disputes
Domestic violence cases
Family mediation
Wills and estates
Collaborative law

10. Advance Family Law

Advance Family Law specialises in guiding clients through family law with empathy and efficiency. The firm offers a free 15-minute consultation to start. They focus on personalised, cost-effective legal solutions. Their experienced team ensures clients receive the support they need to effectively navigate relationship breakdowns and family disputes.

Best part

The firm is committed to a compassionate and supportive service. They provide personalised guidance tailored to individual needs.

Best for

Suitable for individuals undergoing relationship challenges who need empathetic support and effective legal resolutions.

Key services

Parenting arrangements
Property settlements
Domestic violence cases
Divorce and separation
Dispute resolution
Spousal maintenance
Financial agreements
Child abduction
Child support
Grandparent rights
Pet agreements
Consent orders

11. Hey Family Law

Hey Family Law stands out on the Gold Coast for its detailed approach to family law and court orders. Committed to resolution rather than prolonging disputes, they offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet their client’s diverse needs. Their client-focused approach ensures personalised and effective legal strategies to resolve family law matters efficiently.

Best part

They are known for their expertise in complex property settlements and advocacy in parenting matters. This ensures well-rounded legal support.

Best for

Ideal for individuals dealing with intricate asset divisions or those requiring strong representation in parenting issues.

Key services

Parenting arrangements and mediation
Property settlement negotiations
Binding financial and prenuptial agreements
Child support arrangements
Divorce proceedings
Representation in domestic violence cases
Spousal maintenance

12. Brooke Winter Solicitors and Advisers

Brooke Winter Solicitors, specialising in family law, provides comprehensive support for those undergoing separation or disputes over parenting and property settlements. They focus on facilitating resolutions without the need for court intervention. The firm emphasises understanding and navigating legal requirements efficiently to avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings.

Best part

They offer expert legal advice early in the process. This support helps you navigate through stressful times effectively.

Best for

It is good for individuals facing separation issues and needing clear guidance on property settlements or parental arrangements.

Key services

Divorce and separation guidance
Parenting disputes resolution
Property settlement negotiations
Assistance with court filings and representations

13. MCG Legal

MCG Legal offers expert family law services on the Gold Coast, guiding clients through complex legal and emotional landscapes. They support divorce, property settlement, and parenting matters using a straightforward and proactive approach. MCG Legal prides itself on its ability to demystify the legal process, offering clear and concise advice to help clients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Best part

Their lawyers excel at communicating complex legal options simply and clearly. This is followed by tailored, understandable advice.

Best for

Ideal for individuals seeking clear, direct legal guidance in family law matters, especially those new to legal proceedings.

Key services

Binding financial agreements
Child custody and parenting arrangements
Divorce and separation
Domestic violence cases
Mediation
Parental disputes
Property settlement
Spousal maintenance

14. OMB Solicitors

OMB Solicitors on the Gold Coast offer a full range of family law services. This is preceded by a 30-minute free consultation to help guide potential clients. They specialise in navigating complex family law issues, providing clarity and support to ensure clients make informed decisions. The firm emphasises the importance of early legal consultation to protect clients’ interests and plan effectively for legal issues.

Best part

Their family law team works closely with clients to achieve satisfactory outcomes. They can provide a comprehensive overview of your legal position and potential outcomes.

Best for

They can benefit anyone considering separation or needing immediate legal advice to understand their rights and obligations in family law matters.

Key services

Comprehensive family law consultations
Representation in divorce and separation
Advice on property settlements and financial agreements
Guidance on parenting plans and child custody
Assistance with domestic violence cases
Legal support for binding financial agreements

15. Michael Dwyer Solicitor

Michael Dwyer Solicitor provides focused family law services. Their team emphasises the reduction of adverse consequences in family disputes. With experience across several countries, including Australia and the US, they offer guidance in complex child custody and domestic cases. They highlight that in 40% of contested cases, fathers have been successful. Their approach is about making clients comfortable and helping them achieve practical, liveable solutions.

Best part

They focus on practical outcomes, aiming to reduce the negative impacts of legal disputes.

Best for

They are excellent for fathers in custody disputes or anyone needing experienced, pragmatic advice in family law.

Key services

Child custody and parenting disputes
Handling of domestic cases
Legal advice on family law matters

16. RMO Law

RMO Law specialises in family and de facto law, bringing over 40 years of experience to their practice. They focus on various family law issues, including child custody, child support, de facto property matters, divorce, and spousal maintenance. RMO Law is committed to resolving disputes outside of court through mediation and effective negotiation.

But it is fully prepared to represent clients in court if necessary. Their approach is grounded in deeply understanding their clients’ situations to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Best part

They emphasise mediation to resolve issues without court involvement, prioritising amicable settlements and cost efficiency.

Best for

It works well for individuals seeking experienced guidance in complex family law matters and those preferring to avoid litigation.

Key services

Child custody and support
De facto and property settlements
Divorce proceedings
Spousal maintenance
Family law mediations and arbitrations
Surrogacy agreements

Our top 3 picks

Shanahan Family Law
Bennett Carroll Solicitors
BGM Family Lawyers

Here are the top 40 Gold Coast family law firms we considered in this review

Shanahan Family Law
Collective Family Law Group
MCG Legal
Michael Dwyer Solicitor
Stone Group Lawyers
OMB Solicitors
Reardon Family Lawyers
Bell Legal Group
Ramsden Lawyers
Barron Family Law
Pullos Lawyers
Cudmore Legal
Derek Legal
ABKJ Lawyers
Brooke Winter Solicitors and Advisers
Hofstee Lawyers
Bruce Legal
Frampton Mark
Antonious Abdelshahied
Redland Legal
Ashkan Tai Lawyers
GTC Lawyers Southport
CIF Lawyers Gold Coast
Aitken White Lawyers
The Legal House

Scoring Criteria

How do we determine the best Family Lawyers Gold Coast?

There are 4 categories we look at when assessing a family law firm.

1. Reputability

Reputability is one of the key factors for good divorce lawyers. Reputability is crucial to ensuring clients can trust their lawyer to represent them. Reputable firms operate with integrity and honestly seek to secure the best outcomes for their clients.

There are many ways to assess a firm’s reputability. Look at reviews and client testimonials.

Has anyone had a bad experience with the firm?

Was there misconduct involved?

The personal experiences of past clients are an important source of information. Consider any professional credentials and awards the firm has received. This demonstrates the firm’s standing amongst its peers.

2. Communication

Good communication can make difficult family law matters much easier. Family lawyers must fully inform clients about their situation and the available options. If they don’t, clients can feel stressed and confused.

Lawyers with good communication can simplify complex legal issues. They will answer any questions their clients have and can communicate through different channels. These could be through email, over the phone or in person.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Financial challenges affect a client’s ability to move on from their legal issues. A good lawyer can find ways to work with their client’s financial circumstances. This doesn’t need to sacrifice their access to quality legal assistance.

Lawyers can offer different payment options. Deferred fees allow clients to pay after the completion of their case. Fixed fees give clients a transparent understanding of a lawyer’s services and prevent costs from running over-budget.

4. Track record

A lawyer’s effectiveness will be most clearly demonstrated by their track record. How many clients have they represented, and how successful have they been in securing a good outcome? It’s important to consider whether their results were acceptable to the client.

For example, they may have experience drafting financial agreements, but did those agreements meet expectations?

Does the lawyer have experience with cases similar to yours?

Family law matters can be complex. Child custody cases can involve international jurisdictions, and property settlements may have unusual financial structures. Check if the lawyer has dealt successfully with processes relevant to your case.

How do I use reviews to assess a family lawyer?

Reviews are an excellent way of vetting law firms. However, it’s important to approach reviews correctly to ensure you get the most out of them.

Are there patterns?

Consider if there are points of praise or criticism that keep coming up. You might find that clients consistently praise a lawyer’s compassion and empathy or criticise them for a lack of communication. Noticing patterns is easiest when a law firm has many reviews.

If a firm has very few reviews, that may indicate that few people have trusted their services.

Prioritise recent reviews

Recent reviews should give you the most accurate view of a law firm. The quality of their services may have declined over time, making older reviews less relevant. Alternatively, they may have reformed their services successfully.

Find detailed reviews

Look for reviews that provide a lot of detail about a client’s experience. Simple, one-line reviews won’t give you a sense of the lawyer’s ability to handle the specifics of your case. Check if there are clients whose case is similar to yours.

Firm responses

Law firms should endeavour to respond to as many reviews as possible. They must respond to negative reviews. A client may leave a bad review that details various criticisms. However, the client’s criticisms may be unfair or inaccurate. If so, a lawyer’s response can clear up the misunderstanding.

A response can also express what lessons the lawyer learned and how they can improve. This says a lot about a lawyer’s integrity.

Is the review extreme?

Consider whether the review seems too extreme. You may find one review that provides excessive praise or criticism. It may be worth discounting these reviews if they depart too much from the tenor of other reviews.

Fake reviews

Fake reviews can be posted on platforms to artificially inflate a firm’s overall score or unfairly smear them. You may find multiple reviews with similar wording. This can indicate that a law firm is getting review bombed.

Conclusion

We have compiled a thorough list of the best family lawyers in Gold Coast based on extensive research and actual data. Each highlighted firm excels in reputability, communication, cost-effectiveness, and track record, making them excellent choices for anyone in need of legal assistance in the Gold coast area.

The next step is to evaluate these firms yourself. Visit their websites, review their services, and contact them for consultations. Then, use your judgment to select the firm that best aligns with your needs and goals in family law.