Divorce & Family Lawyers in Ormeau
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Family Law Advice From a Local Ormeau Lawyer Who Knows Your Story
The end of a relationship is a hard time, and it often brings decisions about children, the family home and money that you never expected to make. Having a lawyer who listens, explains things in plain language and is there when you call can make that time a little easier.
At Ormeau Legal, the solicitor you meet at your first consultation is the solicitor who looks after your matter. Our office is on Peachey Road, and our clients come from across the northern Gold Coast: Coomera, Upper Coomera, Ormeau, Ormeau Hills, Yatala and Beenleigh.
Our approach is practical. Court is slow, costly and hard on everyone, so we look for an agreed outcome first through negotiation and family mediation. When agreement is not possible, or not safe, we are ready to take your matter to court.
What you can expect from us:
You speak directly with your solicitor, and we offer fixed pricing for binding financial agreements and deferred payment options for eligible clients.
How Our Ormeau Family Lawyers Can Help
Most people come to us about one or more of the areas below.
Separation Advice: What to Do First
Getting advice early can save you money and stress later. In your first meeting we explain your rights and obligations around children, property and money. Then we help you sort out what needs to happen now, what can wait, and how you might reach agreement with your former partner. You do not need to have filed anything or made any decisions before you call us.
Divorce Applications
To apply for a divorce in Australia, you must have been separated for 12 months and 1 day or longer. If you have children under 18, the application needs to set out the arrangements for their care, such as where they live, schooling and financial support.
From there, we prepare and file your application and arrange service on your former spouse. You only need to attend the divorce hearing in certain situations, for example if your spouse files a response opposing the divorce. Once the divorce is granted, it becomes final one month and one day later. Timing matters here. Your property settlement deadline starts from the date your divorce becomes final.
Parenting Arrangements and Child Custody
Many people still call it child custody. The law now talks about parenting arrangements: who the children live with, how much time they spend with each parent, and how decisions are made about things like schooling and health. The court’s focus is the best interests of the child.
Since 6 May 2024, the Family Law Act no longer presumes that parents have equal shared parental responsibility. The law has never required children to spend equal time with each parent.
Before you can apply to the court for parenting orders, you generally need to attempt family dispute resolution (a form of mediation) and get a section 60I certificate. There are exceptions, including urgent matters, family violence, child abuse or a risk of either.
As your parenting lawyer, we help you put agreements in writing through parenting plans or consent orders, prepare you for mediation, and represent you in court when agreement cannot be reached. Grandparents can come to us too, if they want to keep a relationship with their grandchildren.
Property Settlements for Married and De Facto Couples
A property settlement divides a couple’s assets and debts after separation. It applies to married and de facto couples alike, although the time limits differ. The court identifies all property and liabilities of both parties, and will only make orders that are just and equitable in all the circumstances. Both of you have an ongoing duty to share all relevant financial information and documents.
Since 10 June 2025, the court must also weigh up two more things where relevant: the economic effect of family violence, and the care and housing needs of any children.
Time limits apply. If you were married, you must apply for property orders within 12 months of your divorce becoming final. For de facto couples, the limit is two years from when the relationship broke down. Applying later needs the court’s permission, which is not always granted.
Our role is to work out what is in the property pool, negotiate a fair division and formalise the outcome. Selling or transferring the family home as part of the settlement? Our conveyancing team can look after that side as well.
Binding Financial Agreements (Prenups)
A binding financial agreement, often called a prenup, is a contract that sets out how property and finances will be dealt with if a relationship ends. It can be made before, during or after a marriage or de facto relationship. Each party must get independent legal advice from an Australian lawyer before signing, and the court can set an agreement aside in some circumstances, so it needs to be drafted carefully.
Consent Orders
If you and your former partner have already agreed on parenting or property arrangements, you can formalise the agreement by applying to the court for consent orders. You get orders drafted to match what you actually agreed, and an application ready to file.
Family Mediation and Court Representation
Mediation gives you and your former partner a chance to work through the issues with an independent mediator, outside a courtroom. Before mediation, we help you prepare, so you know what to ask for and what to expect. If your matter does go to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, we prepare your case and appear on your behalf.
Domestic and Family Violence Protection Orders
In Queensland, domestic violence orders are made under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld), and applications are usually filed in the Magistrates Court. Ormeau Legal can help you apply for an order or respond to an application made against you. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Other Family Law Matters
Spousal maintenance, child support, annulments and guardianship are also part of our work. Not sure where your situation fits? Call us and we will point you in the right direction.
Family Law Fees and Payment Options
What a family lawyer costs depends on what your matter involves and whether it settles by agreement or goes to court. You will hear what the likely fees are at your initial consultation, before any work starts.
Fixed pricing for simpler work, including binding financial agreements and certain court documents
A fair hourly rate for more involved or ongoing matters, always discussed upfront
Deferred payment options for eligible clients. If most of your money is tied up in property or other assets and cash is tight, ask us whether this could work for you.
Legal aid: we act for clients who have a grant of legal aid from Legal Aid Queensland.
A fair hourly rate for more involved or ongoing matters, always discussed upfront
Deferred payment options for eligible clients. If most of your money is tied up in property or other assets and cash is tight, ask us whether this could work for you.
Legal aid: we act for clients who have a grant of legal aid from Legal Aid Queensland.
What Happens at Your Initial Family Law Consultation
- Get in touch. Call 07 5540 7198 or book online. Phone and video appointments are available if you cannot get to the office. Up to 1 hour is $165. We offer in-person, phone & video. We ask for the other party’s name so we can check there is no conflict of interest before you share any details.
- Bring what you have. Your separation date, a rough list of assets and debts, and any letters, court documents or orders. It does not need to be complete.
- Talk it through with your solicitor. We listen, explain where you stand under the law and set out your options.
- Understand the cost. We explain likely fees, including fixed pricing where it applies.
- Leave with a plan. You will know the next steps, and there is no obligation to go ahead.
Meet Your Ormeau Family Lawyer
Tanya Williams, Principal Solicitor
Tanya Williams is the Principal Solicitor and founder of Ormeau Legal, with a genuine passion for helping people navigate some of life’s most challenging circumstances. Having personally experienced the emotional and financial difficulties of a relationship breakdown while raising four children, Tanya understands firsthand how overwhelming the legal process can be, particularly when access to legal representation is limited.
This experience shaped Tanya’s approach to practising law and inspired her to establish Ormeau Legal in 2012, with a strong focus on providing compassionate, practical and accessible legal services. She firmly believes that financial circumstances should not prevent someone from obtaining quality legal representation and is particularly passionate about helping clients move forward with their lives.
Tanya graduated from the University of Waikato in 2006 and was admitted as a Solicitor and Barrister of the High Court of New Zealand. Following her relocation to Australia, she worked with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions before practising as a Criminal Lawyer and subsequently as a Barrister for approximately three years.
With almost 20 years of legal experience, Tanya combines her extensive legal knowledge with genuine empathy, ensuring her clients feel heard, supported and empowered throughout their legal journey.
Chantal Hill - Solicitor
Chantal Hill is a solicitor at Ormeau Legal, where she focuses on Family Law, Succession Law and Domestic Violence matters. Having been admitted as a solicitor on 11 April 2016, Chantal brings over a decade of legal experience and a strong understanding of the complexities involved in navigating sensitive and challenging legal matters.
Chantal is committed to providing clients with clear, practical and compassionate legal advice tailored to their individual circumstances. She understands that legal matters, particularly those involving family relationships and personal safety, can be emotionally challenging. With an approachable and understanding manner, Chantal strives to ensure her clients feel supported, informed and confident throughout the legal process.
In Family Law, Chantal assists clients with relationship breakdowns, parenting arrangements, property settlements and domestic violence matters, including applications for Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs). She is dedicated to protecting her clients’ interests while working towards practical and constructive outcomes.
In Succession Law, Chantal assists clients with wills, estate planning, probate and estate administration, helping individuals and families plan for the future, protect their interests and navigate the administration of deceased estates with confidence and peace of mind.
Olivia Roeszler - Solicitor
Olivia Roeszler is a solicitor at Ormeau Legal, where she focuses on Family Law and Succession Law. Having worked in the legal industry since 2015, Olivia brings over a decade of experience and a well-rounded understanding of legal practice. She began her career in legal administration before progressing to a paralegal role and ultimately being admitted as a solicitor in 2023. This progression has provided Olivia with valuable practical experience and a comprehensive understanding of the legal process.
With a commitment to supporting clients through often complex and sensitive matters, Olivia provides clear guidance and practical solutions tailored to individual circumstances. Her approach combines legal knowledge and practical experience with a compassionate understanding of her clients’ needs, ensuring they feel informed, supported and confident throughout the legal process.
Olivia’s experience in Family Law includes advising on relationship breakdowns, parenting arrangements and property settlements. In Succession Law, she assists clients with wills, estate planning, probate and estate administration, helping them protect their interests and plan for the future with confidence and peace of mind.
Daniel Roeszler - Solicitor
Daniel Roeszler is a solicitor at Ormeau Legal, where he focuses on Family Law and Succession Law. Having worked in the legal industry for several years, Daniel began his legal career as a paralegal, gaining valuable practical experience and developing a strong understanding of legal processes before being admitted as a solicitor on 10 December 2025.
Daniel is committed to providing clients with clear, practical and tailored legal advice. He understands that legal matters can often be complex and emotionally challenging, and takes a compassionate and approachable approach to assisting clients. Daniel strives to ensure his clients feel supported, informed and confident throughout the legal process.
In Family Law, Daniel assists clients with relationship breakdowns, parenting arrangements and property settlements, focusing on achieving practical and constructive outcomes. In Succession Law, he assists clients with wills and estate planning, helping individuals and families protect their interests and navigate important life decisions with confidence and peace of mind.
Family Law FAQs
How long after separating can I apply for a divorce?
You must have been separated for 12 months and 1 day or longer. If you have children under 18, the application must set out the arrangements for their care.
Is there a time limit for a property settlement?
Yes. Married couples must apply within 12 months of the divorce becoming final. De facto couples have two years from when the relationship broke down. Applying later needs the court’s permission.
Do we have to try mediation before going to court about the children?
Generally, yes. You need to attempt family dispute resolution and get a section 60I certificate before applying for parenting orders, unless an exception applies, such as urgency or family violence.
Is a prenup legally binding in Australia?
A binding financial agreement can be binding if it meets the legal requirements, including independent legal advice for each party. The court can set an agreement aside in some circumstances, so it needs to be drafted properly.
Do I need a lawyer if we already agree?
You do not have to use a lawyer to apply for consent orders, but legal advice helps you understand your rights and check the agreement is fair before it becomes binding.
How much does a family lawyer cost on the Gold Coast?
It depends on the work involved. Simpler matters such as binding financial agreements are fixed price. More involved matters are charged at a fair hourly rate, and we explain likely costs at your first consultation.
Do you only help people in Ormeau?
Most of our clients live on the northern Gold Coast, between Coomera and Beenleigh, but you do not need to live in Ormeau to speak with us.
Speak With a Family Lawyer in Ormeau
A conversation with a local family lawyer can help you understand where you stand and which deadlines apply to you. Call 07 5540 7198 or book a consultation online.
Ormeau Legal, 19-21 Peachey Road, Ormeau QLD 4208
