Business Details
Your Trusted Family Law Partners in Mornington
At Lawyers by the Bay, we pride ourselves on delivering approachable, client-focused legal services tailored to the unique challenges of family law and estate matters. With deep roots in the Mornington Peninsula community, our team combines extensive legal expertise with a compassionate approach to guide clients through emotionally complex situations. Our practice is built on transparency, offering fixed fee arrangements where possible and prioritising clear communication to demystify legal processes. We bring decades of combined experience in family law, wills, and estate planning, ensuring clients receive practical advice grounded in both legal rigor and personal understanding.Our commitment to accessibility extends to after-hours availability and a no-nonsense approach that prioritises client well-being over corporate formalities. We actively engage with the local community, leveraging our intimate knowledge of regional legal landscapes to deliver outcomes that balance legal precision with human empathy.
Services
Family Law
Wills and Estates
Divorce Proceedings
Parenting Arrangements
Property Settlements
Highlights and features
- Fixed fee arrangements for cost certainty
- Compassionate support through emotionally challenging matters
- Specialised expertise in Mornington Peninsula family law
- Transparent communication without legal jargon
- After-hours availability for client convenience
Associations and certifications
- Victoria Legal Service Board
- Law Institute of Victoria
- Family Law Section of the Law Council of Victoria
- Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia
What people say
Honest, caring, thoughtful
Supportive and down to earth
Exceeded expectations
Deeply understood local needs
Exceptional emotional support
Services
Family Law
Our family law practice specialises in guiding clients through relationship breakdowns with practical legal solutions. We handle divorce proceedings, parenting arrangements, and property settlements while prioritising emotional well-being. Our approach combines legal expertise with compassionate support to achieve fair outcomes. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of local court systems and commitment to minimising conflict through negotiation and mediation.
Wills and Estates
We provide comprehensive will and estate planning services tailored to modern family dynamics. Our expertise covers will preparation, estate administration, and dispute resolution while ensuring legal validity. Clients receive strategic advice on power of attorney and estate protection against potential challenges. Our service ensures your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable for your family's future security.
Property Settlements
Our property settlement service navigates complex asset division during relationship breakdowns. We handle financial agreements, consent orders, and court proceedings to ensure equitable outcomes. Expertise includes valuing business interests, superannuation, and inherited assets while considering future needs. We provide clear guidance on both negotiated settlements and contested matters through the five-step court process.
Parenting Arrangements
We specialise in creating child-focused parenting arrangements that balance parental rights with children's best interests. Our services cover parenting plans, consent orders, and dispute resolution while addressing financial responsibilities. We guide clients through family dispute resolution processes and court applications, ensuring arrangements prioritise children's emotional well-being and stability during transitions.
Divorce Proceedings
Our divorce service manages all aspects of legal marriage dissolution, from application processes to final decrees. We handle complex cases involving separation under one roof, international marriages, and short-term unions. Clients receive clear guidance on separation requirements, documentation processes, and associated legal implications regarding children and property matters.
People
David Althaus
Director & Family Lawyer
Experienced family law practitioner with specialist expertise in complex relationship breakdowns. Combines legal acumen with empathetic support to guide clients through challenging transitions. Recognised for practical problem-solving in property settlements and parenting arrangements.
Sharlene Denk-Kafetzis
Family Law Assistant
Dedicated legal professional providing compassionate support in family law matters. Skilled in client communication and case management, offering practical assistance through emotionally complex legal processes.
Tsugumi Althaus
Office Manager
Organisational leader ensuring smooth operations while supporting clients with administrative expertise. Brings meticulous attention to detail in managing legal documentation and office procedures.
Questions
Do you offer fixed fee legal arrangements?
Yes, we provide fixed fee options for many family law matters when scope can be clearly defined, ensuring cost certainty for our clients.
Can you assist with self-represented legal matters?
We offer legal coaching services to help self-represented clients navigate complex processes while maintaining control over their cases.
What areas do you specialise in?
Our core expertise covers family law, wills, estate planning, property settlements, and parenting arrangements across the Mornington Peninsula.
How do you handle complex property divisions?
We employ a detailed five-step process evaluating all assets, contributions, and future needs to achieve equitable property settlements.
What makes your firm different?
We combine legal excellence with compassionate support, prioritising clear communication and practical solutions over corporate formalities.
How are will disputes resolved?
We focus on negotiated resolutions while preparing robust court strategies, always prioritising family relationships and emotional well-being.
