Business Details
24 Years
experience
Trusted Family Law Specialists in Melbourne
Established in 2002, Coote Family Lawyers is Melbourne's specialist family law firm dedicated to providing expert legal guidance during relationship breakdowns. Our team of five Accredited Family Law Specialists, including industry pioneer Ian Mawson KC, has earned consistent recognition from Doyles Guide as one of Australia's preeminent practices. With collective experience spanning decades, we specialise in complex matters including property settlements involving corporate structures, de facto relationship breakdowns, and child custody arrangements.Our client-centred approach prioritises pragmatic counsel while navigating emotionally challenging circumstances, supported by our deep understanding of appellate jurisdiction case law. We extend our expertise to same-sex relationships, conveyancing, and estate planning, maintaining a strong commitment to professional education through regular presentations on Family Law Act provisions.
Services
Divorce Lawyers
Property Settlements
De Facto Breakdowns
Spousal Maintenance
Child Support
Children's Arrangements
De Facto Relationships
Conveyancing
Same-Sex Relationships
Estate Planning
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Established in 2002 with five Accredited Family Law Specialists
- Consistently recognised by Doyles Guide as industry leaders
- Specialise in complex cases involving corporate structures and trusts
- Provide emotional support alongside legal counsel during relationship breakdowns
- Active contributors to family law education and professional development
Associations and certifications
- Doyles Guide
- Accredited Family Law Specialists
Services
Divorce Lawyers
Our Accredited Family Law Specialists guide clients through divorce proceedings with strategic counsel on asset division, child custody arrangements, and spousal maintenance. We prioritise negotiated settlements while maintaining litigation readiness for complex cases. Our team's decades of combined experience ensures comprehensive support during emotionally challenging transitions.
Property Settlements
We specialise in resolving property settlements involving complex financial structures including companies, trusts, and business assets. Our lawyers provide precise valuation assessments and equitable distribution strategies while maintaining focus on client priorities during relationship breakdowns.
De Facto Breakdowns
Our team offers expert representation for de facto couples navigating relationship breakdowns, addressing property division, child custody, and financial support arrangements. We provide clear guidance on legal rights and obligations specific to non-marital relationships under Australian family law.
Child Support
We assist clients with establishing fair child support arrangements, modifying existing agreements, and resolving disputes through negotiation or litigation. Our approach balances legal requirements with the emotional needs of families during post-separation transitions.
Children's Arrangements
Our specialists develop tailored parenting plans addressing custody, visitation rights, and decision-making responsibilities. We prioritise children's best interests while ensuring practical arrangements that accommodate both parents' circumstances and family dynamics.
People
Gillian Coote
Family Law Specialist
With over 30 years' experience, Gillian is a highly respected Melbourne family lawyer consistently named a Preeminent Family Lawyer by Doyles Guide for her industry leadership and client-focused approach.
Gary Yan
Family Lawyer
Dually qualified in Australia and the UK, Gary is an accomplished family lawyer and skilled litigator ranked among Victorias foremost practitioners by Doyles Guide for his exceptional legal expertise.
Annelis Bos
Family Law Partner
Annelis brings multi-disciplinary expertise in family law, conveyancing, and estates, sharing her knowledge through regular professional presentations on Family Law Act provisions and practical applications.
Aisling Clifford
Family Lawyer
Specialising exclusively in family law since 2012, Aisling possesses deep appellate jurisdiction case law understanding, providing astute legal analysis for complex relationship breakdown matters.
Ian Mawson KC
Family Law Pioneer
As a founding figure in Australian family law, Ian contributes decades of experience shaping legal frameworks, offering unparalleled insight into complex cases requiring innovative legal solutions.
Questions
What family law services do you specialise in?
We specialise in divorce proceedings, property settlements (including complex trust arrangements), child custody/arrangements, spousal maintenance, de facto relationship breakdowns, same-sex relationship matters, and estate planning.
How do you support clients during divorce proceedings?
Our team provides both legal counsel and emotional support during divorce proceedings, helping clients navigate asset division, child custody arrangements, and spousal maintenance negotiations with experienced guidance.
Can you handle complex property settlements?
Yes, our lawyers have extensive experience managing property settlements involving corporate structures, trusts, and other complex financial arrangements, ensuring equitable outcomes for our clients.
Do you offer initial legal consultations?
We provide comprehensive initial consultations to understand your specific circumstances and develop tailored legal strategies, with our Accredited Specialists available to discuss your case.
What areas do you cover beyond Melbourne?
While based in Melbourne, our family law expertise serves clients across Victoria and Australia-wide through our established legal networks and virtual consultation capabilities.
