Expert family law advice & understanding for a happier future.
Family & Divorce Lawyers Newcastle
Uncertain about divorce or separation? We'll give you clarity.
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Our principal, Samantha, was admitted in 2001 and has acquired a considerable amount of legal and life experience since.
MASTER IN FAMILY LAW
Awarded a Master of Applied Laws
(Majoring in Family Law).
PERSONAL TOUCH
We understand the need for a personal relationship and guarantee you won’t be passed around the office.
HONEST AND FAIR
We don’t believe in playing games, we tell it how it is and don’t waver.
APPROACHABLE
Friendly and open, we’re here to help. We promise to only intimidate our opponents and only when absolutely necessary!
NATIONWIDE COVERAGE
Not in Newcastle or Maitland? There is no need to meet face to face, make a Zoom appointment today!
Clarity Lawyers
Our Family Lawyers Provide Clarity & Support During Divorce & Separation
Separation, divorce, and parenting decisions can be emotionally and legally complex. Our Newcastle-based family lawyers will guide you through the process. We provide clear, strategic advice to help you manage property settlements, care arrangements and future planning with confidence and support at every step.
We’ll ensure you have a thorough understanding of your entitlements and obligations, and provide expert advice through the entire process.
Learn about JustFund’s flexible funding options for family law matters
Providing Exceptional Family Law Support Across The Hunter Region
Making the right decisions during a separation can feel overwhelming. Emotions are already running high and the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) can be confusing. The choices you make now around parenting, property and finances can have a lasting impact on your future, which is why it’s so important to get legal advice.
We’re here to help you understand your options, protect your interests and move forward with confidence and clarity. Whether you need a quick review of agreements or ongoing support for complex financial or parenting matters, we’ll help you reach a resolution in the most efficient way. We can organise a chat over the phone or via video conference, or you can visit our office on Hunter Street, Newcastle.
How Can We Help You?
Helping you legally end a marriage or a de facto relationship with guidance on your rights, responsibilities and the formal divorce application process under the Family Law Act.
Supporting you through structured negotiation with the other party to resolve parenting or property issues outside of court, often as a first step before court proceedings.
Assisting with parenting arrangements, child custody issues and practical advice on how to reach agreements that prioritise the best interests of your children.
Advising on the division of property and financial assets after a relationship breakdown, whether through negotiation or court proceedings.
Drafting and filing Consent Orders with the court to formalise agreements on parenting or property matters without the need to attend court hearings.
Preparing and reviewing binding financial agreements to protect your financial future, whether before, during or after a marriage or de facto relationship.
Offering a quicker alternative to court for resolving property matters or financial issues, where both you and the other party agree to an impartial decision-maker.
Providing clear advice on child support rights and obligations, including private arrangements and Services Australia assessments, to help you reach a fair and workable outcome for your family.
Offering guidance on spousal maintenance under the Family Law Act, including your entitlements and obligations, so you can understand your financial position with confidence.
Our experienced family and divorce lawyers provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you make important decisions about your future, ensuring your interests are legally protected throughout life’s changes.
How We Work Together
Free Initial Consultation
We start with a no-obligation conversation to learn about your family law situation, explain the process ahead, and discuss how we can support you through separation, parenting or property matters.
Personalised Legal Advice
Our experienced family lawyers provide tailored guidance on your options, prepare all necessary agreements or court documents, and ensure your case is handled with care and professionalism.
Confident Resolution
Whether negotiating agreements or representing you in court, we’re with you every step of the way to achieve the best possible outcome for your family’s future
Where are we located?
Newcastle Office
Level 4, T&G Building,
45 Hunter Street, Newcastle NSW 2300
Parking
There is on-street parking in neighboring streets and along the nearby foreshore, as well as multi-level paid parking on Bolton, Argyle and King Street.
Public transport
You can also easily access our office via public transport, with the Newcastle Beach Station being a 2 minute walk east, and the Crown Street Station a short walk west of our office. There are also trams that run frequently along Hunter and Scott Streets, as well as multiple buses stopping nearby.
Family Court Newcastle
We are within walking distance of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia in Newcastle, which is located at 61 Bolton Street, Newcastle. It’s less than 750 metres away, which is under 10 minutes if you are walking, or a few minutes drive. If you have a court hearing, you can meet us at our office, or we can meet you at court before your matter.
Not in Newcastle? See our Maitland Office
Reviews from our Family Law clients
Samantha has been a lawyer since 2001 having followed in the steps of her father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather. No one can say she didn’t know what she was getting into!
Initially admitted in 2001 as a solicitor in NSW and Australia, Samantha moved to the UK where she was admitted as a solicitor in England and Wales in 2002. After working in several different areas of the law in large London firms, she determined that family law was her calling and hasn’t looked back.
Samantha has been back in Newcastle since 2016 and has since completed her Master of Applied Law (Majoring in Family Law) ensuring that her legal knowledge is comprehensive and completely up to date.
Samantha thrives on taking people from what is sometimes one of the most vulnerable and stressful moments in their lives through to being able to plan and see a happy future ahead of them.
Outside of work Samantha has a husband, three daughters and a dachshund named Keith. They keep themselves busy in the outdoors and particularly enjoy holidays in their VW campervan.
Testimonials
Thanks Sam,
You were actually referred to me by one of your previous clients. Just goes to show how strong word of mouth is, especially in this town. There are now even more people running around Newcastle saying what a terrific job you do.
From my perspective, you are light years ahead of the competition. It is so good to see a professional with such great customer service, who can communicate in a calm clear manner, especially when I am usually a bit emotional. ☺
Keep up the good work Sam, I look forward to continuing to work with you on my matter.
Regards
Thanks Samantha,
I’m still feeling a little shell-shocked but slowly getting used to the idea that it is nearly all over.
Thank you for all your support – professionally and emotionally. It was a big day and I was glad you were with me throughout the entire process,
Good morning Samantha
Thank you very much for your advice and support during the last 2 years. I am pleased to have settled the matter. It's appreciated and I will highly recommend you.
Thanks again
Family Law & Divorce FAQs
What type of lawyer is best for divorce?
The best lawyer for divorce is an experienced family lawyer – because divorce and separation are the main areas they are focused on. They understand the legal requirements for separation, property division and parenting matters, and will help you to reach agreements with your former spouse or partner through negotiation, mediation, or court if there are no other possible options.
How much will a family law matter cost to finalise?
Legal fees vary depending on the nature of your family law matter, the way it is resolved and which lawyer you work with . A simple divorce will cost a lot less than a disputed property division or high-conflict parenting matters. We offer a free 15 minute consultation to understand your matter, and can provide transparent costings from here.
We’ve also partnered with JustFund, who can assist with legal fees for some people who are going through property settlement without having access to upfront funds. You can also learn more in our article – costs before your divorce, or get in touch with our Newcastle family law team for advice relevant to your individual circumstances.
What's the best way to make parenting arrangements?
The best approach to parenting arrangements is open communication with your ex-partner, or, if needed, using Family Dispute Resolution, Mediation or working with a trusted family lawyer who can negotiate on your behalf. Once you’ve reached an agreement, our experienced family lawyers can guide you in drafting agreements that meet legal requirements and focus on the best interests of your children.
How is property settlement organised?
Property settlement usually involves negotiation between parties, often with legal representation from family law solicitors. If agreement isn’t possible, You may need to apply to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to have a decision made for you. The court will weigh up each parties contributions (financial and non-financial), income and financial resources, current and future needs and decide how to divide the property, in line with section 79 of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth)
Are there time limits for property settlement?
Yes there are, and it’s important to seek legal advice early in separation if you are planning on making a property settlement claim. In Australia, you have 12 months from the date of your divorce order, or two years from your separation date if you are leaving a de facto relationship, to apply for property settlement. Missing this deadline can affect your legal rights, so seeking advice from a divorce lawyer early makes all the difference.
Is court necessary for parenting or property matters?
Court isn’t necessary in most cases. Many family law cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation, or with the help of a family lawyer. However, if parties cannot agree on parenting or property division, attending court may be required.
How is child support decided?
Child support is usually decided based on a formula that considers both parents’ income and care arrangements by Services Australia (formerly known as the Child Support Agency). These agreements do not take into account either party’s unique expenses or financial resources beyond taxable income. Our Newcastle family lawyers can help to create private child support arrangements and to ensure child support agreements are fair and comply with federal guidelines.
Do I need to update my Will when I divorce?
Yes, it’s important to update your Will after a divorce, as divorce can revoke previous provisions. An experienced family law solicitor or estate lawyer can help ensure your Will reflects your current wishes and protects your financial future following a divorce or separation.
What areas around Newcastle do you cover?
We work with families across the Hunter Valley and Hunter Region – from Newcastle and Maitland to Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Muswellbrook, Singleton, and beyond. Not in the area or can’t get into our Newcastle or Maitland offices? That’s no problem either – we support families right across New South Wales, and in every corner of Australia. Wherever you live, a quick call is all it takes to find out how we can assist you.
Get Started Today
Take the first step towards resolving your family law matters with clarity and confidence. Our experienced Newcastle divorce and family lawyers are here to support you through separation, parenting and property issues every step of the way.
