Extensive Experience
Kells’ experienced family lawyers specialise in all areas of family law including divorce, separation, child custody, child support and property settlements.
Dedicated Team
Conveniently located in Wollongong and across the Illawarra region, our family law team offers the highest level of service, whilst remaining affordable and easy to talk to.
Trusted Family Lawyers
Nothing is more important to our team than upholding your rights and best interests throughout your legal process.
Here to Help
Are you going through a separation? Perhaps you need assistance with your property settlement? Maybe you might be having trouble with child custody and support?
Relationship breakdowns are difficult. You’re in the middle of an emotional upheaval and the last thing you want to worry about is the legal implications. But, at some point, you’ll need to know what your options are.
At Kells, our family lawyers in Wollongong appreciate the emotional and financial strain that a family law matter can place on an individual and we strive to do all we can to guide our clients through the legal process and provide valuable support during what can often be a very difficult time for you and your children.
Our family law team is led by a NSW Accredited Specialist in Family Law and includes highly experienced and dedicated lawyers, law clerks, paralegals and administrative staff conveniently located throughout the Illawarra region. Our team approach helps to minimise legal costs and means there will always be someone available to talk to you in an informed way.
We are here to support and guide you through the process during this difficult time.
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Flexible legal financing for your family law matter
Kells Lawyers have partnered with JustFund as a practical and compassionate solution for clients who need support covering legal costs. Through our partnership, eligible clients can access a flexible line of credit to help manage legal fees and expenses, with nothing to repay until after a settlement is reached. Unlike traditional lenders, JustFund does not look at income or credit scores to approve funding support for family law matters.
For more information on how to apply for JustFund financing, please contact them direct www.justfund.com.au
How Can Our Expert Family Lawyers Help?
Our experienced family lawyers in Wollongong and the Illawarra support people who are going through a challenging time in their lives as a result of separation, divorce, children’s issues, adoption, family violence, superannuation splitting, and property settlements.
We also handle cases involving same-sex relationships and de facto separation.
Are you a spouse who is going through a relationship breakdown and wants to file for a divorce? You need a divorce lawyer you can trust.
Divorce
Have you separated from your spouse and you want to make legal arrangements for your child’s custody? Find the best parenting arrangement for your circumstances with our help.
Child Custody and Child Support
Are you someone who doesn’t want to involve the court but wants to achieve a fair financial and/or parenting settlement with your partner?
Collaborative Law
Wanting a fair property settlement following divorce or de facto relationship breakdown? Kells Lawyers have extensive experience in the division of property and assets post-separation and divorce.
Property Settlements
Are you unsure if you're in a de facto relationship? Or about to separate and need expert legal advice? Kells de facto lawyers can help with property law and family law matters relating to de facto relationships.
De Facto Relationship
Have you or a family member been a victim of domestic violence where you have experienced threats, sexual, emotional, and verbal abuse? Kells family law solicitors are here to support you and provide advice.
Family Violence and AVO
Are you separated and want to pursue an application for property settlement, parenting arrangements or apply for child support assessments through the Child Support Agency?
Same Sex Relationship
If you and your partner are separating or thinking about separating, we can help you plan the best course for your situation.
Separation
If your final parenting orders no longer reflect your family’s reality, our family lawyers can help you seek variations or enforce compliance.
Varying/Enforcing Final Orders
Relying on AI like ChatGPT for family law matters can leave you with inaccurate or harmful advice. Our experienced family lawyers provide the accurate, personalised legal guidance you truly need.
Dangers of Using ChatGPT in Family Law Matters
Get The Right Family Law Advice
Do you have a question about family law or relationship law?
Send us your information, and a member of our staff will reply to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have family law solicitors in Wollongong and across the Illawarra including Thirroul, Dapto, and Shellharbour down to Kiama. With Kells, you can expect to receive practical legal advice and dedicated support for your family law issues.
If you feel you are in a situation where you might need to seek legal advice you probably should. A solicitor will present the options available to you, highlighting your position and what actions can be taken. You may want to consult a family lawyer about the following circumstances:
- Separation
- De facto relationships
- Divorce
- Same sex relationships
- Property settlements
- Adoption
- Child support
- Children’s issues
- Custody of children
- Superannuation splitting
- Family violence
Not all family violence involves physical harm. It can also be claimed as mental and emotional abuse as well as damage to property.
A family law solicitor in Australia provides legal advice and representation in matters related to family relationships. This includes divorce, separation, child custody, property settlements, financial agreements, and family violence. They guide family law clients through the intricate aspects of the Family Law Act and help negotiate settlements, draft legal documents, and represent clients in court if necessary. Family law solicitors also offer support in non-contentious matters, such as adoption and prenuptial agreements, so that they can protect the rights and best interests of their clients.
The Family Law Act 1975 is a federal law that governs family law matters across Australia, including New South Wales. It covers issues such as divorce, child custody, property settlements, and spousal maintenance. The Act emphasises the best interests of children in custody matters and encourages amicable resolutions through mediation and negotiation before litigation is to be considered. Although it’s a federal legislation, its principles and guidelines are applied in family courts within New South Wales.
The Family Law Act prioritises the safety and wellbeing of children. It establishes that the best interests of the child must be the first and foremost consideration in any decision made by the court. The Act protects children by making sure they have a meaningful relationship with both parents, where appropriate, and are protected from harm, including physical, psychological, and emotional abuse. It also encourages shared parental responsibility, promoting cooperative parenting while keeping children from being exposed to family violence or neglect.
The divorce process in Australia, including New South Wales, typically takes around four months from the time the application is filed until the divorce is finalised. This timeline, however, may vary depending on several key factors including the circumstances of the case, court availability, and whether the application is contested or uncontested. If you are considering filing for divorce, reach out to our experienced family law team today.
Legal separation and divorce are two processes that are distinct, yet share the common goal of redefining the relationship between two individuals.
Legal separation allows couples to live apart without officially ending the marriage. It can involve parenting arrangements, property division, and spousal support. Divorce, on the other hand, is more final as it involves the legal termination of a marriage. Once a divorce is finalised, both parties are free to remarry.
While legal separation provides a breathing space, divorce offers a fresh start.
Having supported and represented clients in both legal separations and divorces, Kells is well-equipped to guide you through these processes. Contact us to learn how we can assist with your situation.
Yes, child custody arrangements can be changed after they have been finalised. But to do so, you will need to demonstrate to the Family Court a significant change in circumstances that justifies the revision. This can include changes in the child’s needs, parental relocation, or concerns about the child’s safety. The court will always prioritise the best interests of the child when considering any modifications.
Speak to a Family Lawyer
Whether you’re navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or property division, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence and care.