Business Details
17 Years
experience
Trusted Family Law Services in Maitland
Galloway Family Law was founded in 2009 as Australia's first non-profit law firm, specialising exclusively in family law. Our team of experienced legal professionals brings over 75 years of combined expertise to guide clients through complex family law matters with empathy and precision. We prioritise client empowerment through initiatives like our free 'Lunch with a Lawyer' community forum and 20-minute consultation services. Our practice focuses on resolving family law issues through both out-of-court settlements and courtroom advocacy, with particular expertise in parenting arrangements, property settlements, and child support matters.We maintain transparency in all communications, providing clear advice about legal processes, likely outcomes, and associated costs. Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through Carolyn Devries' award-winning approach to legal service delivery and our pioneering use of technology to improve access to justice. We measure success through client outcomes and testimonials that consistently highlight our compassionate yet professional approach to family law matters.
Services
Divorce & Separation
Parenting Arrangements
Property Settlements
Child Support
Mediation Services
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- 75+ years combined experience in family law
- Australia's first non-profit law firm model
- Free 20-minute initial consultation service
- Award-winning CEO with non-profit sector expertise
- Community-focused legal education initiatives
What people say
Professional and personable approach
Made difficult time easier
Expert legal guidance
Compassionate support
Successful outcomes
Services
Divorce & Separation
Our experienced team provides comprehensive guidance through divorce and separation processes. We offer practical advice on legal requirements, property division, and child custody arrangements. Clients receive clear information about their rights and obligations during relationship breakdowns, with options for both court-based and alternative dispute resolution methods.
Parenting Arrangements
We specialise in creating parenting plans that prioritise children's best interests. Our services include negotiating custody arrangements, addressing relocation concerns, and resolving disputes about parental responsibilities. We help establish practical solutions for shared parenting and provide representation in urgent child protection matters.
Property Settlements
Our experts handle complex property settlements involving real estate, business assets, and financial investments. We provide strategic advice on equitable asset distribution and prepare legally binding agreements. The team manages high-value cases including farming properties and business interests through negotiated settlements or court proceedings.
Child Support
We advise on child support obligations and entitlements under Australian law. Services include calculating payment amounts, challenging unfair assessments, and drafting binding agreements. Our team helps clients navigate the Child Support Agency processes while considering individual family circumstances and financial needs.
Mediation Services
Our accredited mediators facilitate constructive discussions between parties to resolve family law disputes. We offer structured negotiation processes for amicable separations, focusing on sustainable solutions that minimise emotional distress and legal costs while maintaining family relationships.
People
Carolyn Devries
CEO
Award-winning family law specialist with over 15 years' experience. Holds dual qualifications in law and human services. Founded Australia's first non-profit law firm in 2009 after identifying access-to-justice gaps in family law services.
Ryan Cropper
Managing Lawyer
Experienced family law practitioner with expertise in parenting disputes and estate law matters. Completed legal studies at Southern Cross University. Known for compassionate client approach and successful outcomes in complex custody cases.
Questions
What family law services do you specialise in?
We specialise in divorce proceedings, parenting arrangements, property settlements, child support matters, and family law mediation services.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free 20-minute phone consultations with experienced family law practitioners to discuss your specific situation.
How are legal costs managed?
We provide transparent cost estimates and regular billing updates. Our fixed-cost First Step Package includes comprehensive initial legal advice.
What community support initiatives exist?
Our Lunch with a Lawyer Facebook group provides free family law information and community support for those facing separation challenges.
Can property matters be resolved before divorce?
Yes, we help clients resolve property settlements through consent orders or financial agreements before formal divorce proceedings.
