Gold Coast Family Lawyers

 Compassionate Family Law Support That Puts You First

Our Family Law Team Is Here to Help You

Dealing with family law matters can feel overwhelming. You need someone who not only understands the legal complexities but also recognises what you’re going through emotionally.

We’re here to help you move forward. Our Gold Coast family lawyers take the time to listen, understand your specific situation, and guide you through each step with clarity and care. You don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone.

Whether you’re facing separation, need help with parenting arrangements, or want to protect your financial future, we’ll help you understand your options in clear, straightforward terms. No legal jargon – just practical guidance focused on what matters to you.

Our approach is simple:

  1. We listen to your concerns
  2. We explain your options clearly
  3. We help you make informed decisions
  4. We stand by you every step of the way


Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on what’s most important – taking care of yourself and your family.

We’re committed to finding practical solutions that work for your unique situation and help you build a positive future.

From divorce and property settlements to parenting orders and binding financial agreements, Kingsford Lawyers offers strategic, cost-effective solutions designed to meet your needs. 

Guiding You Through Life’s Transitions

Whether you’re navigating the challenges of a separation or preparing to start a committed relationship, Kingsford Lawyers’ Gold Coast family law team is here to provide you with clear, supportive guidance. We understand the complexities of family law and work closely with you to make transitions—whether financial, parenting, or partnership-related—as smooth and manageable as possible.

For those entering a de facto relationship or marriage, now may be the time to consider safeguarding your assets with a Binding Financial Agreement (pre-nuptial). Our experienced lawyers can help you put protections in place, offering peace of mind as you move forward.

Trusted family law support on the Gold Coast, focused on solutions for your peace of mind.

Protect Your Interests

Kingsford Lawyers Gold Coast family law professionals can assist with the following:

If your query or issue is not listed above, please give us a call on 1300 244 342 for an obligation-free chat today, as we may still be able to assist with your matter.

Areas Our Family Lawyers
Can Assist You With

Our Gold Coast family lawyers are here to support you with a wide range of family matters, dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for you

DIVORCE AND DEFACTO SEPERATION

Our Gold Coast team guides clients through the divorce and separation process with care and sensitivity, ensuring they understand their rights and obligations.

Whether uncontested or contested, our lawyers are adept at handling all aspects of divorce, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

BINDING FINANCIAL AGREEMENTS AND PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS

Binding Financial Agreements are agreements between the parties to the relationship whereby the parties set out agreed terms about property matters. Binding Financial Agreement can sometimes include third parties.

CONSENT ORDERS

We assist clients in obtaining Consent Orders and Court Orders related to property settlements, parenting arrangements, and other family law matters.

Our lawyers ensure all legal documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and reflects the agreed-upon terms or court decisions.

PARENTING / CHILDREN MATTERS

Going through the process of obtaining Parenting Orders can be a very distressing process and Kingsford Lawyers understands how difficult this is. We empathise with our clients and aim to provide clear and concise advice on the rights and available options.

PROPERTY AND ASSET DIVISION

Navigating the division of assets, liabilities, and financial resources during property settlements can be complex and stressful. Our experienced family lawyers consider all financial and non-financial contributions, inheritances, and future needs to ensure a fair and equitable settlement.

We strive to make this process as smooth as possible for our clients from mediation to court where needed.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Sadly, the Gold Coast is a hotspot for domestic violence in Queensland. Despite accounting for only about 10% of the state’s population, the Gold Coast is responsible for approximately 23% of Queensland’s domestic violence orders.

Facing domestic violence on the Gold Coast? Kingsford Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced family lawyers provide swift, compassionate support to protect you and your loved ones

our satisfied clients

Frequently Asked Questions: Gold Coast Family Law Matters

Get the answers to you need to common questions about divorce, property settlements, child custody, and other family law issues specific to the Gold Coast region from our experienced team at Kingsford Lawyers.

Every situation is unique and for the right advice specific to your needs, get in touch for a free initial chat to discuss your rights and legal pathways.

What is the process for getting a divorce in Australia?

Getting a divorce on the Gold Coast is a straightforward process, but it’s just one part of separating your lives. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Separation: You must be separated for at least 12 months before applying for divorce.
  2. Application: File a divorce application online through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
  3. Service: If it’s a sole application, serve the documents to your spouse.
  4. Court hearing: Attend if required.
  5. Divorce order: Granted if all requirements are met.

While the divorce itself is simple, the complex aspects (the reason everyone says “divorce” is so stressful) often relate to other aspects such as property settlements (dividing your assets) and parenting arrangements.

We understand these challenges can be emotionally taxing. Our Gold Coast family law professionals provide empathetic, professional guidance through all aspects of separation, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.

Will I have to go to court?

Most family law matters on the Gold Coast are resolved without going to court. In fact, only about 5% of cases in Australia end up in court hearings. At Kingsford Lawyers, we prioritise alternative dispute resolution methods:

  1. Negotiation: Direct discussions between parties
  2. Mediation: Facilitated by a neutral third party
  3. Collaborative law: A team approach to resolution

These methods are often faster, less stressful, and more cost-effective than court proceedings. 

However, some cases, particularly those involving domestic violence or complex property disputes, may require court intervention. 

If court becomes necessary, our experienced Gold Coast family lawyers will represent you at the Southport Court or any court where the hearing is set to take place, ensuring you’re well-prepared and supported throughout the process.

How are property settlements determined in family law?

Property settlements in family law on the Gold Coast follow a four-step process established by the Family Court of Australia:

  1. Identify and value assets: We’ll help you create a comprehensive list of all assets, liabilities, and financial resources, including property, investments, and superannuation.
  2. Assess contributions: The Court considers both financial and non-financial contributions made by each party throughout the relationship. This includes:
    • Direct financial contributions (e.g., income, property brought into the marriage)
    • Indirect financial contributions (e.g., gifts, inheritances)
    • Non-financial contributions (e.g., renovations, homemaking, caring for children at home)
  3. Consider future needs: Factors such as age, health, earning capacity, and care of children are evaluated to determine if adjustments are necessary.
  4. Ensure fairness: The final step is to assess whether the proposed division is just and equitable for both parties.

Our Gold Coast family law professionals understand that every relationship is unique. We’ll guide you through this process with empathy and professionalism, ensuring your specific circumstances are fully considered.

Our goal is to achieve a fair settlement, preferably through negotiation or mediation, but we’re prepared to represent you in court if necessary.

Remember, there’s no standard 50/50 split in Australian family law. Let our experienced team help you navigate this complex process and secure the best possible outcome for your future.

How can a family lawyer help with parenting matters?

Our Gold Coast family law experts can assist with various parenting matters:

  1. Negotiating parenting agreements: We help draft comprehensive plans covering custody, visitation schedules, and decision-making responsibilities.
  2. Resolving custody disputes: Whether you’re seeking more access or protecting your children from an abusive ex-partner, we provide strategic advice and representation.
  3. Mediation support: We guide you through family dispute resolution processes, aiming for amicable solutions.
  4. Court representation: If necessary, we advocate for your parental rights in the Federal Circuit and Family Court.
  5. Modifying existing orders: We can help adjust parenting arrangements as circumstances change.
  6. Relocation cases: We assist with applications or objections to moving children away from the Gold Coast.
  7. Child support matters: We ensure fair financial arrangements for your children’s care.

Our empathetic approach focuses on your children’s best interests while protecting your parental rights. We strive for solutions that maintain family relationships and minimise conflict, tailored to your unique situation.

What is a binding financial agreement, and how does it work?

A binding financial agreement (BFA) is a legal contract that sets out how a couple’s assets will be divided if their relationship breaks down. BFAs can be made before, during, or after a marriage or de facto relationship. When made before marriage, they’re often called “prenuptial agreements” or “prenups.” and no longer just for celebs.

Key points about binding financial agreements:

  1. They can cover property division, financial resources, and spousal maintenance.
  2. Both parties must receive independent legal advice before signing.
  3. They can provide certainty and potentially avoid costly court battles.
  4. They must comply with strict legal requirements to be enforceable.

For Gold Coast couples, BFAs can be particularly useful if:

  • One partner has significantly more assets
  • There’s a family business to protect
  • It’s a second marriage with children from previous relationships

At Kingsford Lawyers, we can help draft, review, or negotiate BFAs tailored to your specific circumstances. Our experienced Gold Coast family lawyers ensure your agreement is comprehensive, fair, and legally sound.

Can you help with domestic violence matters?

Yes, we are here to protect you. At Kingsford Lawyers, our Gold Coast family law professionals are committed to helping those affected by domestic violence.

We understand the sensitivity and urgency of these matters, particularly given the concerning statistics in our region.

How we can help:

  1. Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs): We can assist in applying for, modifying, or responding to DVOs through the Southport Magistrates Court, which houses the specialist Domestic and Family Violence Court.
  2. Urgent protection: In cases of immediate danger, we can seek urgent temporary protection orders.
  3. DVO breaches: We provide representation if you’ve been accused of breaching a DVO or if someone has breached an order protecting you.
  4. Safety planning: We work with you to develop comprehensive safety strategies.
  5. Referrals: We can connect you with local support services on the Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast accounts for approximately 23% of Queensland’s domestic violence orders, despite only having 10% of the state’s population and in the 12 months to May 2023, DVO breaches on the Gold Coast surpassed 5,000, a 171% increase since 2015 so it’s sadly a major issue but one our local team understand inside out.

We can help protect you including your rights under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld) and Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).

For Gold Coast matters, Southport Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Court, established in 2015, deals with both civil and criminal DV matters. This court provides a coordinated, respectful, and fair justice response to domestic violence on the Gold Coast.

At Kingsford Lawyers, we’re committed to providing compassionate, professional support to those affected by domestic violence on the Gold Coast with absolute confidentiality. 

Do you just do Gold Coast based family law matters?

We can handle family law matters for any location in Australia from our Gold Coast office in Ashmore or our Melbourne office.

  • We represent clients in all Australian states and territories
  • We’re experienced in navigating different state laws and jurisdictions 
  • We offer remote consultations for clients unable to visit our offices

Whether your case is on the Gold Coast, interstate, or involves cross-border issues, our team is equipped to provide expert legal assistance tailored to your specific situation.

We also offer a wide range of legal services including updating your will which is also important to consider following a separation.

My ex is trying to move with the kids away from the Gold Coast, can they do that?

If your ex-partner is planning to move away from the Gold Coast with your children, they cannot legally do so without your consent or a court order. This applies whether they’re planning to move interstate or overseas or even a long way within Queensland.

Key things to consider:

  1. Consent is crucial: Your ex must obtain your permission or a court order before relocating with the children.
  2. Distance matters: Even moves within Queensland that significantly impact your ability to spend time with your children may require consent or court approval.
  3. International relocation: This is particularly complex, especially given the Gold Coast’s diverse growing population. If your ex is originally from overseas, extra precautions may be necessary if you have reason to believe they may try to take them out of Australia without your consent. It’s much easier to stop this happening (and your rights protected by Australian laws) than resolving it once they are in another country.
  4. Existing orders: If there are current parenting orders in place, relocating without consent could be a breach.

If you suspect your ex is planning to move or has already relocated without permission:

  • Act quickly: Time is critical in these cases.
  • Seek legal advice immediately: Our Gold Coast family lawyers can help you understand your rights and options.
  • Consider urgent court action: We can assist in filing for recovery orders or airport watch list placement if necessary.

To speak with a lawyer from Kingsford about your case, call us on 1300 244 342 for a confidential, obligation-free chat.

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