Why You Can Trust Us
Sterling Legal delivers integrity, proven results, and unrivaled client care.
Introduction
Family law deals with some of the most important aspects of people’s lives: relationships, children, property, and financial security. In Australia, family law covers a wide range of issues, from separation and divorce to parenting disputes, property division, child support, and protection from family violence.
At Sterling Legal, our Sydney based family law lawyers understand both the emotional and legal challenges that come with these matters. We provide clear advice, strong representation, and practical solutions tailored to your situation. Whether you need urgent protection, guidance through separation, or help resolving financial disputes, our Sydney family law firm is here to support you.
Family Lawyer: free consultation
Sterling Legal is a family-run law firm that has a special focus on Family Law. We are strong advocates for the rights of the oppressed, and the rights of the child. We are also outspoken voices against domestic abuse.
If you have been manipulated into thinking you have less say over what happens to you and your family, don’t believe it. Book a free consultation with our experienced Partners now.
Our Partners will take the time to listen to your situation and provide free legal advice. This may involve connecting you with the right support networks, or outlining next steps for fast and efficient legal action.
For over 20 years, Sterling Legal has supported the grassroots of our community and remains dedicated to making a meaningful difference for every family we serve.
We maintain our grassroots connection to the community every day through our member associations, outspoken advocacy on domestic violence and Family matters, with free legal advice to those in need.
Cases
International Academy of
Family Lawyers
Win rate
Our Family Law Services
Typically, our services include:
Domestic & Family Violence
Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or financial abuse. If you need urgent protection, our lawyers can help you apply for an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) or defend you if one has been made against you. These matters often overlap with parenting and property disputes, and we act quickly to protect your rights.
Parenting & Children
Disputes about parenting arrangements can arise during or after separation. Our Sydney family lawyers assist parents in resolving who children live with, how time is shared, and decision-making responsibilities. We focus on outcomes that protect children’s best interests while ensuring your voice is heard.
Child Abduction & Recovery
If a child is taken without consent, urgent legal action may be required. Our team acts quickly to recover children through the courts and enforce parenting orders. These cases are time-sensitive, and having experienced family court lawyers in Sydney is crucial.
International Child Abduction
When children are taken overseas without consent, international treaties such as the Hague Convention apply. Our lawyers are experienced in cross-border disputes and can guide you through the complex international processes to recover your child.
Parenting Arrangements & Custody
Clear parenting arrangements help avoid future conflict. We assist in negotiating or formalising custody agreements that are practical and enforceable. Our family solicitors in Sydney ensure your parenting plan reflects your children’s needs and your parental rights.
Child Support
Raising children involves significant costs. We help parents understand their obligations and entitlements under Australia’s child support system. Whether negotiating private agreements or resolving disputes through Services Australia, we provide clarity and strong representation.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy arrangements involve complex legal processes to protect the rights of all parties. Our Sydney family law lawyers provide advice on parentage orders, surrogacy agreements, and compliance with Australian and international law.
Separation & Divorce
When a relationship ends, you need clear legal guidance. Divorce in Australia requires proof of separation, often 12 months. We guide you through filing, responding, and resolving related issues like parenting or property.
Same-Sex & De Facto Relationships
Family law applies equally to same-sex and de facto couples. We assist with separation, parenting arrangements, property division, and financial settlements. Our Sydney family law firm ensures your rights are protected under Australian law.
Consent Orders
Consent orders make your parenting or property agreements legally binding. We draft and file orders that reflect your agreement, giving you certainty and enforceability without the need for ongoing disputes.
Property & Financial Matters
Property and financial disputes are often complex. We help you negotiate fair settlements that cover real estate, superannuation, investments, and debts. Our family court lawyers in Sydney focus on practical resolutions backed by strong legal strategy.
Division of Property & Super
Separation often requires division of property and superannuation. We advise on what is fair and represent you in negotiations or court to ensure your financial future is secure.
Financial Settlements
Financial settlements finalise how assets and debts are divided. Our lawyers guide you through negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings to achieve a settlement that is legally binding and protects your interests.
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance provides financial support to a former partner when needed. If you require support, or are being asked to pay, we provide advice on your rights and obligations under family law in Australia.
Family Dispute Resolution
Family dispute resolution (FDR) is often required before going to court. Our lawyers guide you through the process, help prepare your case, and ensure agreements are fair and in your best interests.
Collaborative Law
Collaborative law is a process where both parties and their lawyers work together to resolve disputes without court involvement. It’s often less stressful and more cost-effective. Our family solicitors in Sydney are trained in collaborative law to help achieve constructive outcomes.
Family Therapy Referrals
Sometimes family disputes need more than legal advice. We provide referrals to trusted family therapists who can support you and your children emotionally during the legal process.
Mediation
Mediation offers a structured way to resolve disputes without litigation. Our family lawyers support you through mediation sessions, prepare you for negotiations, and ensure your legal rights are protected in any agreement.
International Family Law
International relationships can create complex family law challenges. We advise on overseas divorces, international parenting disputes, relocation, and recognition of foreign orders in Australia. Our experience in cross-border matters ensures you receive clear guidance.
Take the Next Step
Client Testimonials and Reviews
Educating & empowering our community:
Family lawyers
protecting your rights
Feeling deceived, trapped or threatened? You have more legal rights than you think. Book a consultation.
Many of our clients have been led to believe — by their partner, the media or others — that they have limited legal protection or options for redress. This is far from reality.
Stirling Legal has helped thousands of clients protect their children and loved ones, secure favourable terms in marriage separations and safeguard their livelihoods.
Let our family lawyers help you take back control and protect what matters most.
Let us help you, not bill you.
Our Partners offer free legal advice during your first consultation on Family law matters — with no obligation to proceed.
You are not someone else’s property — and you are not alone
Family Law has undergone significant changes in NSW, QLD and VIC. Our experienced family law lawyers understand these developments and how they impact your situation. Let us help you protect your rights.
Protecting what’s most valuable in life
Your family’s safety and wellbeing are what matter the most. At Sterling Legal, we are a family law firm that helps mothers, husbands, children, grandparents, cousins and extended family to exercise their legal rights, resolve disputes and navigate the complexities of the Australian family law system.
Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the legal protection and entitlements that you and your family deserve. With a 98% win rate and free legal counsel for those in need, let Sterling Legal help you find a resolution, get compensation and move forward with your life.
Get immediate legal advice.
Our partners provide free on-the-spot legal advice for general matters and guidance for complex issues (document reviews) within 3-7 days.
Family law protection for our most vulnerable
For over 23 years, we have protected our community when they are in danger, helped them to seek rightful damages and stop the manipulation away from their personal rights. We are an expert Family Law firm who have represented clients of every background and situation, from high-profile divorces to child abduction and protection matters. We hold deep knowledge of Australian Family Law, what works in each court and new legislative changes.
Speak to a Partner, not a junior
Every case we handle is led by an expert Partner. Don’t leave your legal protection to inexperienced lawyers.
Family Law guidance to empower our community
Too many of our clients have been manipulated into thinking they do not have legal rights – a misconception we work tirelessly to correct.
Sterling Legal prides itself on getting the best level of care for our clients, in the fastest way possible.
Your matter will be led by an experienced Partner who specialises in Family Court issues and works to secure the best outcome for you through the most direct path possible.
We never bill negligently and our first consultation is always free.
When it comes to you and your family, get the professional support, care and protection you expect.
Family court lawyers fighting for your rights
We prioritise resolving matters outside of court whenever possible, exploring mediation as the fastest and most efficient option. However, if your case must go to court, expect us to fight for your rights at every step of the way. Sterling Legal holds a 98% success rate, backed by unmatched family law solicitors who use the right legal strategies to suit the jurisdiction and matter at hand, ensuring you get the best outcome possible.
We prioritise resolving matters outside of court whenever possible, exploring mediation as the fastest and most efficient option. However, if your case must go to court, expect us to fight for your rights at every step of the way. Sterling Legal holds a 98% success rate, backed by unmatched family law solicitors who use the right legal strategies to suit the jurisdiction and matter at hand, ensuring you get the best outcome possible.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Fees vary, but many lawyers charge by the hour (typically $400 to $800/hr).
Not many offer this service but Sterling Legal offers a free initial consultation (1-hour) to assess your situation and outline options.
Look for expertise, experience, communication style, client reviews, and comfort level.
You have rights regarding property division, parenting arrangements with children, and financial support depending on your situation.
The law follows a “just and equitable” approach - considering financial, non-financial and welfare to the family contributions, future needs, and the overall fairness of the final position.
Custody (or in the new language, parenting arrangements) is based on the child’s best interests - factoring in safety, relationships, and stability.
Not always. Most disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or family dispute dispute resolution before litigation.
Divorce typically takes at least 3 months. Property settlements take 13 months but can be quicker if both parties agree on terms by way of settlement.
No. Family lawyers also assist with de facto relationships, which have similar rights and obligations under Australian family law.
Separation is when a couple ends their relationship (married or de facto); divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage, which requires court filing after 12 months of separation.
Yes, but only if there has been a significant change in circumstances and it's in the best interests of the child.
BFAs (also called “prenups”) are private legal contracts outlining how property or finances will be divided if the relationship ends. They must meet strict legal requirements to be enforceable.
You can apply to the Family Court for enforcement or penalties. A family lawyer can help with compliance and enforcement proceedings.
Yes, in most parenting matters, Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is compulsory before filing in court—unless exceptions apply (e.g. family violence, urgency).
Not without the other parent’s consent or a court order. Doing so without permission may be considered child abduction under Australian law.
Courts assess whether one party cannot adequately support themselves and whether the other can reasonably provide support, considering income, assets, age, and health.
International family law issues can arise (e.g. Hague Convention cases, child abduction, overseas assets), and experienced family lawyers handle such matters through treaties and international cooperation.
Bring identification, relevant court documents, financial records (bank statements, property titles, superannuation), and a timeline of events.
