Family Law:
Best Family Lawyers in Sydney

Date Updated: 

We’ve reviewed more than 149 law firms that specialise in family law in Sydney and have put together a list of the best family lawyers, law firms and family law barristers in Sydney to help you with your family law matter.

Family law is an area of law that deals with family-related issues and domestic relations.

Family lawyers act on matters such as divorce and separation, child contact and adoption, parenting matters, Local Authority care orders and financial settlements Most family law practices focus on representing clients in a divorce and the issues related to divorce such as the division of marital property, child custody and support, and alimony Family lawyers also draft prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and litigate related matters.

Choosing the right Sydney family lawyer is extremely important due to the deeply personal and intricate nature of family law matters. Family disputes often carry heavy emotional burdens and can have lasting impacts on an individual’s future, finances, and relationships, especially when children are involved. Learn more about what a family lawyer can do for you.

The right family lawyer offers a combination of legal expertise and emotional support, guiding clients through the complexities of the legal system while advocating for their best interests. Moreover, skilled representation can minimise conflicts, streamline the legal process, and ensure that sensitive information remains confidential. In essence, the right family lawyer provides both legal protection and peace of mind during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Hire one of best divorce lawyers in Sydney NSW Australia. 

Sydney's Best Family Lawyers, Law Firms and Barristers

1. Unified Lawyers

Rated among the top three Family Lawyers in Sydney by Three Best Rated, Unified Lawyers is a leading family law firm in Sydney with offices in Sydney CBD, Parramatta, Marrickville, Bondi Junction, North Sydney and Miranda. They offer services across all family law matters including divorcechild custodyproperty settlementbinding financial agreements and more.

Unified Lawyers has been rated one of the best family lawyers in Sydney for 7 straight years in a row, and has a team of experienced lawyers and Accredited Family Law Specialists who are dedicated to helping their clients achieve the best possible outcome for their family law matters.

The firm is committed to providing high-quality legal advice and representation at affordable rates, and the team genuinely understands how stressful and difficult it can be to go through a family breakdown or separation. That’s why they offer a free consultation to all clients, where an experienced family lawyer will discuss their situation and give them general guidance and advice.

With over 450 5-Star reviews on Google, you can rest assured that you are in safe and caring hands when you choose Unified Lawyers.

2. Watts McCray Lawyers

Watts McCray Lawyers is one of the leading family law firm headquartered in Sydney, known for handling intricate family legal issues. With decades of experience, they have built a reputation for expertise in matters spanning divorce, property disputes, and child custody. Their skilled team offers both litigation and mediation solutions, ensuring that clients receive tailored approaches for their unique situations. Their commitment to excellence and client-focused strategies has positioned them as a top choice for many seeking family law services in the region.

Address:Level 7, Suite 702, 570 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 
Phone Number: (02) 9283 5877
Website: wattsmccray.com.au
Email: [email protected]

3. Barkus Doolan Family Lawyers

Barkus Doolan Family Lawyers is one of the premier Sydney-based firm specializing in family law, particularly complex financial cases. With a track record of handling high net worth disputes, the firm is renowned for its meticulous approach and dedication to achieving optimal outcomes for clients. Their team of seasoned lawyers combines expertise with compassion, understanding the delicate nature of family legal issues. Whether it’s property settlements or child custody battles, Barkus Doolan stands as a beacon of professionalism in the family law arena.

Address: Level 9, 370 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 9265 0111 
Website: familylawyers.com.au
Email: [email protected]

4. O’Sullivan Legal

O’Sullivan Legal is a distinguished law firm situated in Sydney, with a particular focus on family law. The firm prides itself on its modern approach, combining contemporary methods with traditional values to secure the best results for clients. Recognized for their in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding family disputes, their team is committed to providing strategic advice and robust representation. With a dedication to excellence, O’Sullivan Legal has become a trusted name in family legal matters.

Address: Suite C4, Ground Floor 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 8079 5200
Website: osullivanlegal.com.au
Email: [email protected]

5. Armstrong Legal

Armstrong Legal is a multifaceted law firm based in Sydney, offering services across various legal domains, including family law. Their family law division stands out for its expertise, commitment, and client-centered approach. The firm understands the emotional toll of family disputes, aiming to offer not only legal solutions but also support and guidance. With a blend of experience and innovation, Armstrong Legal ensures that clients navigate the complexities of family law with confidence.

Address: Level 35, Tower One Barangaroo International Towers, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 9261 4555
Website: armstronglegal.com.au
Email: [email protected]

6. Turner Freeman Lawyers

Turner Freeman Lawyers, headquartered in Sydney, is a comprehensive legal firm offering a diverse range of services. Among these, their family law division shines brightly, known for its robust representation and in-depth legal knowledge. The firm has a rich history, grounded in decades of experience, ensuring clients receive expert advice and results-driven solutions. Whether it’s marriage disputes, property division, or child-related matters, Turner Freeman stands ready to deliver exceptional legal support.

Address: Level 13/175 Liverpool St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 8222 3333 
Website: turnerfreeman.com.au
Email: [email protected]

7. Kells Lawyers

Kells Lawyers is a dynamic legal firm with a broad service portfolio, encompassing family law among other specialties. Based in Sydney, the firm has carved a niche for itself by offering client-centric, result-oriented legal solutions. Their family law team, backed by a wealth of experience, is adept at handling various challenges, from divorces to custody battles. With a commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, Kells Lawyers is a preferred choice for many seeking legal redress in family matters.

Address: Level 2/131 York St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 9233 7788
Website: kells.com.au
Email: [email protected]

Jacqueline Vincent

Jacqueline Vincent (Jackie), an Accredited Specialist, has practised predominantly in the Family Law area since commencing work as a Solicitor in 1997. She has experience in all aspects of Family Law including property and financial matters, residence and contact issues, child support, maintenance and domestic violence as well as de facto relationship disputes. She appears regularly as an advocate in both the Family and Federal Circuit Courts.

Learn more about Jacqueline Vincent

Justin Dowd

Justin Dowd has been a Director of Watts McCray for over 20 years and a solicitor for 40 years. He has a wealth of experience and expertise. Justin became an Accredited Specialist in Family Law in 1994. He is also accredited as an arbitrator and mediator in family law. Justin’s practice over the last ten years has increasingly been to specialise in international family law matters.

Learn more about Justin Dowd

Paul Doolan

Paul has been a Partner of the firm for over 20 years and is the Immediate Past Chair of the Family Law Section Executive of the Law Council of Australia. “Doyle’s Guide to the Australian Legal Market” has ranked Paul Doolan as the Market Leader of all family lawyers practicing in Sydney from 2015 to 2023, and as Pre-Eminent or Market Leader nationally in each of those years. Paul was selected in 2020 and 2022 as Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Sydney by “Best Lawyers in Australia“.

Learn more about Paul Doolan

Ashleigh Barry

Ashleigh has specialised exclusively in family law since joining Kells in 2012. She grew up in Wollongong and is known for her ambitious but pragmatic approach. Ashleigh is experienced across all areas of family law with a particular interest in divorce/separations, property matters including property settlements, spousal maintenance and binding financial agreements.

Learn more about Ashleigh Barry

Karen Beck

Karen was called to the Bar in 2013 after receiving 1st class honours in her Bachelor of Laws. She has practiced solely in family law since that time, appearing in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, the Family Court of Australia and the Full Court of the Family Court. Karen brings to her practice a thorough understanding of family law issues. Her practice includes all areas of family law including property distribution, children’s matters and family violence. She regularly appears as Counsel for the Independent Children’s Lawyer. With prior experience in the business world and MBA qualifications Karen has the necessary skills to deal with complex financial issues in property matters.

Learn more about Karen Beck

Giles Stapleton

Giles Stapleton

Giles was called to the Bar in October 2012 after a 20 year career in banking and commerce in Sydney and London. Giles’ practice in Family Law involves appearing in all types of property and parenting disputes and appearing led and unled in reviews and appeals of family law decisions. Giles is also a member of Ninth Floor Selborne Chambers, Sydney from where he also appears in property law and equity disputes in the NSW Supreme Court. Giles accepts briefs in all New South Wales Courts, all Federal Courts and the Federal Circuit & Family Courts across Australia.

Learn more about Giles Stapleton

Grahame Richardson

Grahame Richardson SC is a specialist in Family Law at both trial and appellate level. He has been a barrister for in excess of 32 years, including over 20 years as Senior Counsel. Family Law has been his predominant area of practice throughout that time and he has participated in many significant cases at first instance and on appeal that have contributed to the developing jurisprudence of the area. During that time he has developed a keen interest in complex financial cases particularly those involving disputed disclosure of wealth and contested valuations. He has wide ranging experience in all nature of proceedings in courts exercising a Family Law jurisdiction.

Learn more about Grahame Richardson

Esther Lawson

Esther Lawson was admitted to the NSW Bar in 2005.Esther is a trained nationally accredited mediator and is a member of the Australian Institute of Family Law Arbitrators and Mediators (AIFLAM). She accepts briefs to appear as a mediator in parenting and property matters. As a barrister, the majority of Esther’s practice is in the areas of family law, care and protection law and adoption law..

Learn more about Esther Lawson

Our quick guide on hiring a family lawyer in Sydney

How to choose the right Family Lawyer in Sydney?​

Location and Accessibility: While expertise is crucial, choosing a family lawyer based in Sydney or nearby can be convenient, as you may need to meet frequently.

The Family Law Firm Reputation: Apart from the awards a firm showcases, dig deeper. Have they been recognised in the specific area of family law you’re interested in based on your understanding of the specifics situation you are in. Do you need help with a divorce, child custody, property settlement, or another family law matter?

Leverage The Free Initial Consultation: Most family lawyers offer a free initial consultation. This meeting can help you gauge your comfort level with the family lawyer and their approach to your case. So we definitely recommend leverage this. Open conversations about family lawyers’ costs can prevent unforeseen disputes.

What are some questions I should ask a family lawyer during consultation?

  • What is your experience in handling cases similar to mine?
  • What is your approach to resolving family law disputes?
  • What are the possible outcomes of my case?
  • What are the costs involved in handling my case?
  • How long do you think it will take to resolve my case?
  • What is your availability for communication and updates on my case?
  • What documents or information do I need to provide for my case?

Do I have to pay for an initial consultation?

The policy regarding initial consultations varies from family lawyer to family lawyer. While a significant number of lawyers offer free initial consultations as a way to understand your case and provide preliminary guidance, there are others who might charge a fee.

It’s essential to clarify this beforehand. When reaching out to a lawyer from our list above, it’s always a good practice to ask about any consultation fees.

This way, you can be prepared and make an informed decision when scheduling your appointment.

Learn more about how much do family lawyers cost here.

Our Complete Sydney Family Law Guides