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Browse trusted Parenting and Child Support Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Parenting and Child Support Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.84 stars from 5765 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 5765 client reviews

Parenting and Child Support Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Northam Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140098..

Northam Lawyers is a boutique law firm in Sydney and Melbourne, specialising in family law and immigration matters. Unlike large firms with impersonal services and high fees, we offer personalised attention combined with expert knowledge without the excessive costs. Clients receive direct engagement with experienced lawyers familiar with their cases, ensuring accountability and effective communication. Our 100% online, paperless operation enhances efficiency and convenience. Choosing Northam Lawyers means opting for a proactive, client-focused approach to your legal needs. We are committed to providing tailored legal advice, aiming for the highest standards in service.

Our Team

Patty Schrute from Northam LawyersJason Gergich from Northam Lawyers
Justice Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140000..

Justice Family Lawyers Sydney connects with clients personally while providing expert, sensible legal advice. As the leading family law firm in Sydney, we aim for swift, cost-effective outcomes so you can move forward with your life. Our dedicated team focuses solely on family law, offering tailored services for your unique situation with strength, knowledge, and empathy. We emphasise legal clarity to reduce confusion, stress, and costs, helping you navigate divorce, custody, or property disputes efficiently. Our goal is to empower you with realistic expectations and a compassionate approach, ensuring optimal results and a sense of progress throughout your legal journey.

Our Team

Saxbys Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140019..

Saxbys Lawyers is a premier boutique commercial law firm located in Melbourne's CBD legal precinct. Our practice combines technical excellence with sharp commercial insight, featuring a team experienced in various areas of commercial and general law. We focus on understanding our clients’ unique objectives, ensuring we provide timely and cost-effective solutions. Our diverse clientele includes Australian and international entities, such as multinational retailers, distributors, and property developers, as well as company directors, business owners, liquidators, and private clients. We pride ourselves on delivering clear, practical legal counsel to facilitate informed decision-making.

Our Team

Kenneth Muntz from Saxbys LawyersDean Beesly from Saxbys LawyersMichael Edison from Saxbys Lawyers
McKean Park Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140094..

At McKean Park Lawyers, we focus on expert advice, practical solutions, and personal service. From our receptionist’s warm welcome to your lawyer’s final handshake, these principles guide our professional partnership. Our lawyers are specialists in their fields, ensuring reliable legal advice. We prioritise practical, solution-oriented outcomes tailored to your needs. Our commitment to client comfort and respect means we take the time to listen and build rapport. With extensive experience across various legal areas including Aged Care, Family Law, and Commercial Litigation, we deliver effective results efficiently. If we can’t do it well, we won’t do it at all.

Our Team

Dawn Benes from McKean Park LawyersJim Nahasapeemapetilon from McKean Park LawyersSeymour Anagonye from McKean Park Lawyers
Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140047..

Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers are experts in family and relationship law, dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for your family. With over 65 years of combined experience, we offer comprehensive support during difficult times, focusing on respectful solutions. Our services include arbitration for financial disputes, enforcement of parenting orders, financial agreements, and assistance with grandparents' rights, guardianship, and international family law matters. We emphasise negotiation and collaboration, working with various experts to provide sound legal advice. From mediation to property settlements and spousal maintenance, we’re committed to helping you navigate family law issues with dignity and understanding.

Our Team

Tom Shellstrop from Schetzer Papaleo Family LawyersBender Wiggum from Schetzer Papaleo Family LawyersHermes Lemon from Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers
Kennedy Partners Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140084..

Kennedy Partners is a top-tier family law firm in Melbourne, specialising in family and de facto relationship law, including domestic and international matters. Annually recognised by Doyle’s Guide and awarded for excellence in family law, our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional service. We offer resolution-focused legal services including advice, representation, mediation, and litigation for various family law issues such as financial matters from relationships, parenting disputes, international child abduction, financial agreements, and child support. We are highly regarded for our expertise and commitment to clients within Australia and globally.

Our Team

Zoidberg Jenkins from Kennedy Partners LawyersLisa Bernard from Kennedy Partners LawyersBender Buffay from Kennedy Partners Lawyers
Forte Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140009..

Forte Family Lawyers is a leading family law firm in Melbourne, known for strategic advice and tailored representation. Our dedicated team, including respected partners Jacky Campbell, Wendy Kayler-Thomson, Jason Walker, and Jemma Mackenzie, provides expert guidance in family law matters. We focus on delivering accurate, up-to-date advice to meet our clients' needs and offer pragmatic solutions with care. Acknowledging the emotional complexities of family breakdowns, we prioritise negotiated out-of-court settlements while ensuring robust advocacy when necessary. Our commitment to staying current in family law ensures our services are both empathetic and expertly informed.

Our Team

Ron Kramer from Forte Family LawyersChris Jordan from Forte Family LawyersMarge Kroker from Forte Family Lawyers
Sage Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140060..

Sage Family Lawyers is a compassionate firm in Melbourne specialising in family law. We offer calm, simplified advice and representation in all areas of family and de facto relationship law. Our motivation is helping families during difficult times, ensuring you feel in control. We strive for cost-effective, practical long-term solutions, aiming to resolve issues quickly through negotiation and mediation. If litigation is necessary, we take a strong, strategic approach. Our services include separation, divorce, parenting arrangements, child support, property settlement, spousal maintenance, binding financial agreements, family violence, and support for LGBTIQA+ communities.

Our Team

Hubert Nadir from Sage Family LawyersApril Hudson from Sage Family LawyersNelson Farnsworth from Sage Family Lawyers
Taurus Legal Management
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140053..

Taurus Legal Management provides expert legal services tailored for business owners. We understand your goals and treat your business as our own, making commercial decisions to protect your brand and reputation. Our team excels in various areas, including Commercial Law, Dispute Resolution, Employment & Safety, Property & Construction, and Family Law. We have resolved over 6,500 disputes and handle high-asset family cases, focusing on protecting wealth and securing your family's future. Our approach involves understanding your business, developing a tailored strategy for success, and ensuring effective implementation. Contact us to discuss your business and goals.

Our Team

Ned Linetti from Taurus Legal ManagementMichael Halpert from Taurus Legal ManagementEdna Haverford from Taurus Legal Management
Blackwood Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140090..

Blackwood Family Lawyers, located in Melbourne, is dedicated to superior legal services in family law. The firm emphasises a client-centred approach, addressing each client's unique circumstances with care. Their team offers expert legal advice and representation in matters like separations, divorce, parenting arrangements, and financial settlements, providing support during emotionally challenging times. Clients receive clear guidance on their legal rights and future priorities. The firm features eight Accredited Family Law Specialists, ensuring high standards of service. Blackwood Family Lawyers focuses on realistic, tailored advice, aiming for the best outcomes while minimising unnecessary costs, ensuring clients move forward confidently.

Our Team

Jake Conrad from Blackwood Family LawyersAnn Santiago from Blackwood Family LawyersEleanor Conrad from Blackwood Family Lawyers
CE Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140000..

At CE Family Law, we recognise that family law issues are personal and can affect you and your loved ones profoundly. Our mission is to offer comprehensive legal advice that honours your rights while considering family dynamics. We provide support with clarity and confidence through every stage of your legal journey, whether it's separation, child arrangements, or financial settlements. Our services prioritise your safety, facilitate amicable disputes, and protect your interests in court. We educate you on your legal rights, empowering you to make informed decisions. Trust CE Family Law to guide you toward successful outcomes during challenging times.

Our Team

Krusty Perry from CE Family LawLenny Al-Jamil from CE Family LawChidi Kramer from CE Family Law
Taussig Cherrie Fildes Lawyers

Taussig Cherrie Fildes is a premier Australian family law firm in Melbourne, renowned for expert representation and advice in matrimonial, de facto, and family law. Our team includes ten senior lawyers, all accredited family law specialists, ensuring high standards of expertise and personal approach. Recognised as a 'First Tier' Leading Family & Divorce Law Firm by Doyles Guides in 2024, we offer exceptional service in property and financial matters related to relationship breakdowns. Our services cover various areas, including child support, divorce, spousal maintenance, and more, with a focus on sensitivity and confidentiality. We provide strategic advice and robust representation for the best outcomes.

Our Team

Jim Nahasapeemapetilon from Taussig Cherrie Fildes LawyersWesley Flanders from Taussig Cherrie Fildes LawyersNewman Farnsworth from Taussig Cherrie Fildes Lawyers
Douros Jackson Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140024..

Douros Jackson, a premier boutique commercial law firm established in 2000, is recognised for its reliability and practical solutions. Initially flourishing in Melbourne, the firm expanded to Sydney in 2004, followed by Brisbane and Perth, offering comprehensive legal services across Australia. Its client-centric philosophy, combined with growing demand, has sparked continuous growth. Embracing technology, Douros Jackson implemented an advanced online client portal for efficient service delivery. The firm's success stems from its experienced lawyers, commitment to result-driven services, and strong teamwork, fostering lasting client relationships to ensure future success.

Our Team

Gob Skinner from Douros Jackson LawyersMaggie Traeger from Douros Jackson Lawyers
McNab McNab & Starke Lawyers

Founded in 1910, McNab McNab & Starke is one of Victoria's most esteemed legal firms, building enduring relationships with clients, many of whom have familial ties to our founding partners. We offer a wide range of legal services, from Wills and Estates to Business Law and Property Law, along with specialised Mediation Services. Our growth across Melbourne and Kilmore to three metropolitan locations highlights our commitment to accessibility and service. Led by Director Mark Maier, recognised by Doyles Legal Directory, our team emphasises empathy, integrity, and professionalism, ensuring clients receive tailored legal solutions. Contact us to see how we can assist you.

Our Team

Terry Edison from McNab McNab & Starke LawyersMarge Farnsworth from McNab McNab & Starke LawyersBender Harris from McNab McNab & Starke Lawyers
Romer Maud Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140077..

Romer Maud Family Lawyers offer compassionate, empathetic, and expert legal support for those navigating family law matters. With over 20 years' combined experience, our team understands how vital it is for clients to feel seen and heard. We specialise in complex parenting and property issues and can represent you in Court when necessary. Our firm prioritises clear, concise advice to empower you in making informed decisions for your family's future. We value trust, kindness, equality, and transformation. Our services include separation, child custody, spousal maintenance, mediation, divorce, property settlements, and more. Focus on healing while we tackle your legal challenges.

Our Team

Nelson Martin from Romer Maud Family LawyersJenna Halpert from Romer Maud Family LawyersCordelia Funke from Romer Maud Family Lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions

What should a parenting plan include in Melbourne?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that sets out arrangements for their child or children's care, welfare and development. It can cover who the child lives with, time spent with each parent and other family members, communication arrangements when a child is not in a parent's care, and how disputes about the plan will be resolved. Parenting plans can also address child support and maintenance matters. It's important to note that parenting plans are not legally enforceable, meaning if one parent doesn't follow the agreement, the other cannot force compliance through legal remedies. However, the court may consider a parenting plan if parents later end up in court proceedings. You should seek legal advice before entering into a parenting plan to ensure it properly addresses your family's needs.
How do I apply for parenting orders in family court?
To apply for parenting orders, you have two main options depending on whether you and the other parent can agree. If you both agree on arrangements, you can file an Application for Consent Orders with the court. If you cannot agree, you can file an Initiating Application, though this should only be considered after genuine efforts to resolve the matter have failed. Parenting orders deal with matters such as where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, allocation of parental responsibility, decision-making authority, communication arrangements, schooling, and international travel. The Federal Court of Australia is located at 305 William Street, Melbourne, approximately 0.7 km away. It is advisable to obtain legal advice before making an application. If you need assistance finding a family lawyer in Melbourne to guide you through the process, LawConnect can connect you with experienced parenting and child support lawyers in your area.
What is sole parental responsibility in Australian family law?
Sole parental responsibility in Australian family law means that one parent has the legal authority to make all major long-term decisions about a child's upbringing, without needing to consult or agree with the other parent. These decisions typically cover matters such as the child's education, religious upbringing, medical care, and cultural development. By default, Australian family law presumes that both parents share equal parental responsibility for children under 18. However, a court may grant sole parental responsibility to one parent in circumstances such as safety concerns, inability to co-parent effectively, substance abuse issues, mental health conditions, or abandonment or neglect. A parenting order establishing sole responsibility must be made by the court and is legally binding on both parents. If you need guidance on parental responsibility matters in Melbourne, a family lawyer can advise you on your specific situation and help you navigate the court process.
What is the Parenting Orders Program?
The Parenting Orders Program is a government-funded service designed to help separated parents who are in high conflict over parenting arrangements. It operates under the Family Law Act and focuses on helping parents understand how their conflict affects children and how to prioritise their child's needs. The program typically involves individual and joint sessions where parents can work on improving communication, renegotiating parenting agreements, and developing strategies to reduce conflict. Many programs also offer child consultation sessions where children aged five to eighteen can share their experiences and have their voices heard. The program can help with family law information, referrals, post-separation seminars, and support for children through the separation process. Duration varies depending on family circumstances, ranging from a few months to up to two years. If you're experiencing difficulty with parenting arrangements following separation, you may benefit from exploring this service with a family law professional who can assess your situation.
What are interim parenting orders?
Interim parenting orders are temporary court orders made quickly to establish parenting arrangements while a case is being decided. They typically replace a final parenting order once the court has considered all the issues in depth. You can request interim versions of most parenting orders, including those dealing with who a child lives with, how much time they spend with each parent, communication arrangements, and parental responsibility for decisions about education, health and other matters. If you need legal assistance with parenting orders in Melbourne, LawConnect has 187 parenting and child support lawyers listed across Victoria. You may also access support through Victoria Legal Aid Melbourne, located just 0.6 kilometres away, or the Federation of Community Legal Centres at 0.3 kilometres distance.
How do I change an existing parenting order in Melbourne?
To change an existing parenting order in Melbourne, you generally need to demonstrate that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the order was made, and that reconsidering the order is in the child's best interests. If both parents agree to the changes, you can sign consent orders which the court can approve without appearing in court. Alternatively, you may enter into a parenting plan instead. If you don't agree on changes, you'll need to follow the same court application process as applying for orders initially. Before taking court action, it's advisable to first attempt discussing the proposed changes with the other parent directly, or consider family dispute resolution counselling to help reach agreement. For assistance with your specific situation, consider contacting a parenting and child support lawyer in Melbourne who can advise on your circumstances and guide you through the appropriate process.

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