Business Details
22 Years
experience
Specialist Family Law Barristers in Sydney
Established in February 2004, Family Law Chambers comprises fourteen specialist barristers dedicated exclusively to family law matters. Our chambers was officially opened by the Honourable Justice Michael Kirby AC CMG on 6 May 2004, marking the first time in Australia that a barristers' group adopted a name reflecting their specialist jurisdiction. Situated adjacent to the Family Court of Australia in Sydney, we provide a premium service across all aspects of family law, including property settlement, parenting proceedings, child welfare, child support, international child abduction, and mediations.Our members are widely recognised as leaders at the New South Wales Bar, offering a broad range of experience and expertise covering disputes both within and outside the Family Court's jurisdiction. We remain committed to delivering exceptional advocacy and tailored advice to every client.
Services
Family Law
Property Settlement
Parenting Proceedings
Child Welfare
Child Support
International Child Abduction
Mediation
Arbitration
Binding Financial Agreements
Family Violence
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Established 2004 with fourteen specialist family law barristers.
- Located adjacent to the Family Court of Australia.
- Clerk matches clients to barristers by specific expertise.
- Members recognised as leaders at the New South Wales Bar.
- Offers arbitration and mediation services within chambers.
Services
Family Law
Our barristers provide comprehensive advice and representation across all family law jurisdictions, including divorce, property division, and parenting arrangements. We leverage extensive experience at the New South Wales Bar to achieve optimal outcomes for clients navigating complex family disputes. Every matter receives tailored strategic guidance from specialists recognised as leaders in their field.
Property Settlement
We handle complex financial settlements involving substantial asset pools, business interests, trusts, and superannuation. Our members possess deep expertise in forensic accounting analysis and valuation disputes, ensuring thorough preparation for negotiation or litigation. Clients benefit from our proven track record in securing equitable property divisions through court proceedings or alternative dispute resolution.
Parenting Proceedings
Our specialists advocate in parenting disputes covering relocation, international abduction, and cases involving children with neurodiversity or special needs. We prioritise the child's best interests while protecting parental rights through evidence-based arguments and expert witness coordination. Chambers members include accredited Independent Children's Lawyers for complex litigation.
Mediation
Several members serve as accredited mediators, facilitating confidential resolution of property and parenting disputes outside court. Our mediators combine legal expertise with advanced negotiation skills to help parties reach durable agreements efficiently. This service reduces emotional and financial costs while preserving relationships where possible.
Arbitration
Chambers offers arbitration services with senior members appointed as arbitrators for binding determination of family law financial disputes. This private process provides a faster, flexible alternative to court litigation with specialist decision-makers. Parties benefit from procedural control and confidentiality while receiving a legally enforceable award.
People
The Hon. Stephen O'Ryan KC
Barrister
The Hon. Stephen O'Ryan KC brings distinguished judicial experience to family law practice, offering expertise in complex financial and parenting disputes. His background ensures authoritative advocacy and strategic advice for high-stakes matters.
The Hon. Colin Forrest SC
Barrister
The Hon. Colin Forrest SC has practised as a family lawyer for over thirty years, specialising in intricate property settlements and parenting proceedings. His extensive experience provides clients with seasoned judgment in challenging litigation.
Grahame Richardson SC
Barrister
Grahame Richardson SC is a specialist in family law at both trial and appellate levels, recognised for his skill in complex financial cases and parenting disputes. He delivers precise advocacy grounded in deep jurisprudential knowledge.
Sydney Williams KC
Barrister
Sydney Williams KC was admitted to the Bar in 2004 and quickly established a leading practice in family law, focusing on high-net-worth property disputes and international children's matters. Her reputation reflects consistent excellence.
Dixie Coulton
Barrister
Dixie Coulton was recognised by the Doyles Guide in 2015 as a leading junior in family law, specialising in parenting disputes and property settlements. She combines rigorous preparation with persuasive courtroom advocacy.
Questions
What family law areas do your barristers cover?
We cover all family law matters including property settlement, parenting disputes, child support, international abduction, binding financial agreements, and family violence.
How do I brief a barrister from your chambers?
Contact our clerk Branka Dosen via phone or email; she will match you with the most suitable barrister based on expertise and availability.
Do you offer mediation and arbitration services?
Yes, several members are accredited mediators and arbitrators providing confidential dispute resolution outside court proceedings.
Where are your chambers located?
Level 1, 91 Goulburn Street, Sydney NSW 2000, adjacent to the Family Court of Australia.
What are your business hours?
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm; closed weekends and public holidays.
How many barristers are in your chambers?
We have fourteen specialist barristers, including King's Counsel and Senior Counsel, all focused exclusively on family law.
