We support your legal needs and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Anyone who’s been through the family law system knows the emotional challenges. Poor legal representation only makes the situation worse. The right lawyer will make the process smooth and manageable. When you’re sure that your interests are cared for, you can focus on healing.
Are you finding it difficult to find the right help? We’ve ranked the six best law firms that can assist you with your legal needs. If you’re a Caloundra resident that needs a leading family law firm, look no further.
Before you continue, we want to clarify that Ferrall & Co. don’t consider our firm or any firm, for that matter, the best family lawyers Caloundra. This article is meant to help you form your own opinions. You might have found this piece by searching for ‘best family lawyers in Caloundra’ on Google or Bing. We hope you enjoy the article and that it helps you find the right divorce lawyer in Caloundra.
If you’re new to choosing a family lawyer or want to learn more, we recommend you read this guide on how to choose the right family lawyer in Caloundra for your needs.
6 Best Family Law Firms
1. Ferrall & Co. Lawyers – Overall Best
At the head of Ferrall & Co. Lawyers is Rowena Ferrall. Rowena is a respected lawyer in the Caloundra community who’s been practising law for 20 years. Over the years, Ferrall and Co. has made a name for itself through the team’s unparalleled service. Their compassionate and professional guidance has led hundreds of clients through their difficulties. They assist with divorce, parenting agreements, division of property, and legalities around de facto and same-sex couples’ separations.
The team at Ferrall & Co. has one overriding mission. They want to ensure clients navigate the legal system with confidence and dignity. They strive to provide the best possible outcomes in every case they take on. Honesty, integrity, and expert advice are the hallmarks of their services. It’s no wonder they’ve become one of the most trusted choices in Caloundra.
Practice areas
- Family law
- Domestic violence matters
- Traffic law
- Criminal law
Best for
Clients who are looking for representation from a respected and empathetic team of professionals with expertise across family law.
Best part
- Specialised experience in family law matters since 2004.
- Expertise in handling complex family legalities.
- A reputation for guiding clients with honesty, integrity, and expert advice.
- Proven track record of achieving the best possible outcomes in the Federal Circuit and Family Court.
Offers obligation-free initial meetings to discuss individual circumstances and goals.
Key services
- Divorce
- Child custody
- Parenting agreements
- Property settlements
- Domestic violence
Contact Ferrall & Co. Lawyers to work with you through your divorce. They offer a free 30-minute consultation to prospective clients.
Get a free consultation now
What their clients say
Rowena and her team at Ferrall & Co went above and beyond to help me achieve what no other firm I previously engaged were able to do.
– James Walker
2. Focus Family Law
Why has Focus made the list? The team understands family law proceedings well. Their personalised approach matches with practical advice. Their client-focused attention makes everyone they represent feel supported. Their team excels in areas such as spousal maintenance and child custody arrangements.
Focus Family Law’s principal family lawyer, Michelle Britton, has long been passionate about speaking up for victims of domestic violence. Her years of experience working with these sensitive cases makes her one of the most empathetic and compassionate family lawyers on the Sunshine Coast. For these reasons, we’re happy to name them one of the most trusted partners during challenging times.
Practice areas
- Family law
- Domestic violence matters
Best for
Clients dealing with sensitive cases, particularly involving family violence, will benefit from Focus Family Law’s deep experience with these cases.
Best part
- Recognising the emotional challenges of divorce, Seraphus offers a tailored and sincere approach. They provide structured and practical legal advice to ease the process.
Their extensive history of helping victims of domestic violence has made the Focus Family Law team a compassionate advocate for clients.
Key services
- Parenting Arrangements
- De Facto Relationships
- Domestic Violence Matters
- Spousal Maintenance
- Child Custody and Support
What their clients say
From the very first phone call to the finalisation of my family court matter, Michelle, Tariana were my calm, during my many moments of panic.
– Kyrie Hunter
Michelle and her team understand how sensitive family law issues can be. Clients consistently praise them for their open communication and ability to put their clients at ease in difficult times. They offer a free initial 15-minute consultation, followed by a one-hour appointment at a reduced rate. This highlights another of their many advantages: helping clients to access assistance affordably.
Focus Family Law is part of Legal Aid Queensland’s preferred supplier panel. They work with parties to apply for legal aid so they can face the family law system without sacrificing their financial security.
If you’re unsure where to start, this guide will help you choose the right family lawyer in Caloundra for your specific needs and provide expert legal support.
3. Alex Mandry
Sandra Sinclair heads the firm as a caring family law specialist. Her extensive career stretches back to 1998. Alex Mandry Legal Group brings over 40 years of experience assisting families through challenging times. They demonstrate a peerless commitment to finding the best possible outcomes. They have offices in many locations across Australia. Their clients have access to extensive resources.
As an accredited mediator, the Sandra and her team team offer legal expertise that emphasises dispute resolution. They always aim for amicable solutions where possible. Sandra spent several years as an independent children’s lawyer and worked to resolve domestic violence and child safety cases.
Practice areas
- Family law
- Conveyancing and property law
- Wills and estate law
- Migration law
- Domestic violence matters
Best for
Anyone who needs representation from a respected firm with extensive resources and an experienced team.
Best part
- As an accredited mediator, Sandra can assist clients with avoiding costly and stressful court action.
- Sandra and her team are passionate advocates for domestic violence victims and children at risk of family violence or abuse.
Key services
- Binding financial agreements
- Divorce and separation services
- Children’s issues
- Spousal Maintenance
What their clients say
First time I met Sandra there was a box of handkerchiefs judiciously within reach. A thoughtful attention for sure. But it didn’t stop at that. Sandra’s guidance was like that too. Thoughtful, discrete, respectful of the grief and pain, patient.
– Frank Fontaine
The Alex Mandry team on the Sunshine Coast understands the nuances involved in family law cases. Clients are often at their lowest point and need urgent and compassionate help. Frank’s story is just one of many you’ll read about Sandra’s emotional support and guidance. Empathy is something that is often lacking in law. Their respect and patience shown at a vulnerable time has earned them the trust of thousands of clients.
4. Shanahan Family Law
Since 2009, Shanahan Family Law has established itself as a trusted voice for Sunshine Coast residents. Through their over 14 years operating in the local community, they have successfully helped over 4000 clients. In addition to their office on the Sunshine Coast, Shanahan Family Law also represents clients in Southport, Gold Coast. They are easily accessible to all of their clients.
Luke has always had a singular focus on family law. He’s honed his expertise as an accredited family law specialist to add value to your life by offering opportunities for new beginnings. His approach centres around understanding individual needs and creating tailored solutions. For these reasons, this Sunshine Coast law firm is an obvious choice for our list.
Practice areas
- Family law
- Domestic violence matters
Best for
If you’re looking for tailored advice and comprehensive support, Shanahan Family Law could be the ideal choice.
Best part
- With conveniently located offices, clients can access their services easily.
- Their tailored and solution-focused approach ensures clients receive personalised advice. This facilitates smoother transitions and new beginnings.
Key services
- Divorce and Separation
- Child custody
- Child support and maintenance
- Property settlement
- Domestic violence
- Mediation
- Spousal maintenance
What their clients say
Very professional, supportive and respectful in all communications and responsibilities. I found their team very patient when challenges occurred and kept me informed at all times.
– Diana Homer
Good communication is at the heart of a positive lawyer-client relationship. One of the scariest parts of a client’s journey through the family law system is to not know what is occurring. Luke and his team recognise the importance of ensuring that clients are always kept informed about the process in easy-to-understand terms. By making sure that all parties are aware of the available options, Shanahan Family Law clients have the opportunity to participate actively.
Looking for legal advice? Our guide offers key steps to help you find the right family lawyer in Caloundra tailored to your unique situation.
5. RK Law
RK Law is a proactive and practically-minded team. They are available to clients at all times to answer any questions. Clients always have a lifeline. RK Law doesn’t just abandon clients after a case is over. They follow up afterwards to ensure clients can transition successfully to their new life.
Clients praise RK Law for their genuine friendliness, experience, and consistent availability. Their commitment to the mantra “defend your future” is evident through everything they do. These range from criminal and traffic defence to family law.
They cater to clients from all walks of life. Their singular goal is to achieve justice and a fair outcome for their clients. They’re here if you need help with complex matters like resolving international jurisdictional issues and handling relocation orders. This is why we welcome them to our list.
Practice areas
- Criminal law
- Traffic law
- Domestic violence matters
- Family law
Best for
Clients who want comprehensive service from a firm that works tirelessly for their clients and provides constant availability.
Best part
They are recognised for their genuine friendliness and deep expertise. They ensure clients receive both compassionate and knowledgeable guidance.
As a preferred supplier for Legal Aid Queensland on the Sunshine Coast, they cater to diverse clients. This ensures access to quality legal representation for all.
Key services
- Separation and Divorce Arrangements
- Urgent Recovery Orders
- Parenting Orders
- Superannuation Splits
- Maintenance and Child Support
- Property Settlements
- Domestic and Family Violence Legal Support
What their clients say
Rowan and Team was referred to me from a trusted friend and from the moment we spoke, there was transparency, professionalism, empathy, support and most of all fast moving communication.
– Celina Ridsdale
RK Law maintains positive relationships with its clients. Many lawyers feel that their responsibilities to their clients end when the case is over. However, moving into life after legal proceedings can be challenging. Following up and ensuring a smooth transition encourages people to act on behalf of their firm. Referrals from family and friends often count the most. That’s why RK Law’s high-quality services reach deep into their community.
6. DJ Hinton Lawyers
DJ Hinton Lawyers understand that the dissolution of a relationship or marriage can be among life’s most challenging moments. The firm specialises in all areas of family law. They offer both expertise and empathy tailored to each client’s situation. David Hinton began his career all the way back in 1989. His 35 years of experience shows through his track record and satisfied clients.
Their services encompass divorce, property settlements, spouse maintenance, financial agreements, and children & parenting matters. Their team consists of skilled lawyers who partner with a network of professionals in related fields. That’s why they’re amongst our favourite law firms.
Practice areas
- Family law
- Wills and estate law
- Insurance and TPD claims
- Conveyancing and property law
- Civil and commercial litigation
- Traffic law
- Criminal law
Best for
If you want a firm with specialised expertise in family law from a firm that tailors a solution to your situation, DJ Hinton Lawyers are for you.
Benefits
- Specialised expertise in Family Law, ensuring tailored and informed guidance during challenging times.
- Comprehensive services covering all aspects. These range from property settlements to children & parenting matters.
- A dedicated team of professionals committed to exceeding client expectations. They uphold the highest standards in Family Law practice.
Key services
- Property division
- Children’s Issues
- Divorce
- Spousal Maintenance
- De Facto Disputes
- Same-Sex Couple Disputes
- Child Custody and Maintenance
- Relocation Disputes (including International)
- Binding Financial Agreements (including Prenuptial Agreements)
- Legal Representation and Negotiation
What their clients say
I first met David in 2005 through the purchase of my forever home in Hervey Bay. Since then, David has handled all of my legal matters for conveyancing, pre-nuptial, binding financial agreement, divorce, Power of Attorney, Agency matters, my Will, Dad’s deceased estate matters, Body Corporate matters, Fair Trade advice, bailiff-assisted debt recovery and that’s just the first of many matters handled successfully.
– Ronnii
When you’re able to find legal representation you can trust with all facets of your legal needs, you never need to look back. DJ Hinton Lawyers offer in-depth expertise across a wide range of legal matters. They have developed strong connections with their clients over decades of dedicated service. From family law, property and estate matters to criminal proceedings, DJ Hinton Lawyers will support you.
Navigating family law can be challenging. Let this guide assist you in choosing the right family lawyer in Caloundra to meet your needs with confidence.
How do I find the best firms in my area?
When you’re equipped with the right tools to make your own assessment of a law firm, you can ensure you only deal with the best. Here are some tips for finding the right firm for you.
Online reviews
Online reviews are often the first thing people look at when assessing a law firm. It’s best to only consider law firms with a minimum of 4.5 stars. Anything less and there may be concerns about how they perform. Consider if there are common points, positive or negative, being raised consistently. Prioritise more recent reviews and check to see if the firm has posted any responses.
Friends and family
There’s no opinion we trust more than those of friends and family. If anyone close to you, a friend, family member, co-worker, and the like, has dealt with family law matters, ask them about their experience and whether they would recommend the firm. If possible, try to find someone whose matter closely resembles yours. That way, you can get a good sense of how the firm will handle your specific needs.
Law firm’s website
A firm’s website can give you some useful information. Look to see if they specialise in particular areas of family law, and if they have special accreditations. Check the structure of the site. Is it professional in its tone, or does it have a more casual feel?
Initial consultation
Many law firms offer a free 30-minute initial consultation. This is an excellent time to get to know the lawyer and assess them on various factors.
- How is their communication? Do they explain the legal process simply?
- Do they show empathy and understanding for your situation, or do they seem dismissive?
- On first impressions, do they seem like a person you would be compatible with?
It’s helpful to have a set of questions written down beforehand so you can cover all of your concerns.
Some questions you could ask include:
- Have you handled cases similar to mine, and, if so, what were the outcomes?
- What potential outcomes do you envision for my case?
- What are the likely next steps?
- What fee structures are available?
- What would be required of me going forward?
Finding the right family lawyer in Caloundra can be overwhelming. This guide will help you make the best choice for your legal needs with clear and practical advice.
Conclusion
The Family Law Act encompasses a complex and challenging set of issues. What makes finding the right firm so difficult is how individualised every case is. So, how do you find the right one? With this list, We hope to point you in the right direction.
We have discussed six family law firms that we consider the best in the field. We chose each one for embodying the highest values. They represent clients with empathy, expertise and an individualised approach to their legal services. While we’re proud of our firm’s expertise and track record, we encourage you to explore all options. Choose a legal partner that resonates with you.
The wrong legal support will significantly affect your family law matters. The right firm can help you start a new chapter. Reach out for a free consultation for Ferrall & Co. Lawyers’ personalised services. We’ll help you make an informed decision for your peace of mind.
With over 15 years of experience, we’re committed to fighting for your rights and guiding you through legal matters. Get in touch now.
