About Pearsons
We know what you're going through. We're here to help.
Separating is one of the hardest things anyone goes through. Since 1922, Pearsons has helped Melbourne families through it with clear advice, steady support and lawyers who have seen matters like yours many times before.
- 100+
- years in practice
- 3
- Accredited Family Law Specialists
- 4.8 ★
- from 133 Google reviews
- 20+
- locations across Melbourne and Geelong
Why people come to us
We know what you're dealing with
Most people who contact us have never needed a family lawyer before. These are the worries we hear most, and where to start.
You've just separated
And you're not sure what happens next. We'll explain your options and the steps ahead in plain English.
What to do after separatingYou're worried about the children
Where they'll live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how to keep things steady for them.
Parenting arrangementsYou're worried about the house and money
What goes into the property pool, what a fair split looks like, and how to make it final.
Property settlementsYou don't feel safe
We can help you get protection quickly and plan your next steps. If you are in danger right now, call 000.
Family violence helpWorking with us
What to expect from Pearsons
- 01
A free first appointment
Thirty minutes with a lawyer to understand where you stand, before you decide anything.
- 02
Clear, honest advice
Your options in plain language, and a straight answer about what is likely.
- 03
A team behind you
Your lawyer works with paralegals and, when your matter needs them, barristers, mediators, valuers and accountants.
- 04
Costs explained up front
An estimate at the start, and itemised accounts as your matter goes.
Our story
A Melbourne family law firm since 1922
For more than a century, Pearsons has helped people through separation and the decisions that follow it: the children, the house, the money and what comes next. Family law is at the centre of what we do, alongside wills and estates.
Our Principal Directors, Leanne Abela and Joe Schepis, have each practised family law for more than 35 years. They lead a team that includes three Accredited Family Law Specialists, and lawyers who speak several languages, including Mandarin, Maltese and Italian.
You won't be handed from person to person. You'll have a lawyer who knows your matter, and a team who can step in when you need them.
Leanne Abela
Principal Director
Leanne has practised at Pearsons for her entire career and became a Partner in 1991. Nearly four decades of property, parenting and child support matters, and a Graduate Diploma in Mediation.
Read Leanne's profileJoseph Schepis
Principal Director
Accredited Family Law SpecialistJoe has practised only family law since 1987 and has been an Accredited Family Law Specialist since 1992. He joined Pearsons in 1993 and is known for explaining hard legal problems in plain language.
Read Joseph's profileOur people
Lawyers who do this every day
Whatever you're facing, there's a lawyer here who has handled it many times before.
Google reviews
What clients say on Google
Rated 4.8 from 133 Google reviews. Read them on Google or see letters from our clients.
"I had an extremely messy divorce, a husband that was difficult at every turn and lots of companies and property. I had been elsewhere and had want of a better word been screwed over by the previous law firm. Then I found Leanne and Deb. I was a mess during the 4 years it took to finally get the matter settled. Leanne, Deb, Jen and team were supportive, professional and would often advise what to be concerned about and what would just be wasting time and money. I gained exactly what I originally offered the ex and paid about 150K less than the law firm my ex went with. I could see the other firm were milking him for fees, but where possible Deb saved me money. So in the end, I got what I wanted, the EX did not. Very professional team and highly recommended"
"My lawyer was Venus Pham. Venus was excellent. Thank you Venus!"
"Louis Horsley guided me throughout my divorce and financial separation over several months. He was always prompt, professional and very clear in his communication. All my questions were addressed and clearly explained throughout the process so that I could decide what was and wasnt worth pursuing. He was always accomodating scheduling our telephone meetings which was appreciated. It was an efficient process facilitated by his fast communication turnaround, despite the lack of agreement between parties. I'm relieved its completed!!"
"I highly recommend Pearsons Lawyers for family law matters.
Deborah Sim is exceptionally professional, knowledgeable, and strategic in her approach. She provides clear, practical advice and quickly understands the key issues and priorities. Her guidance is well-balanced, combining strong legal insight with a calm and considered approach, which gives clients confidence throughout the process.
I also appreciated her thoughtful approach to managing costs, ensuring work is handled efficiently and appropriately across the team without compromising quality.
Cheree Qiao and Jen Lamb were also excellent to work with. They were responsive, attentive, and consistently detail-oriented, making communication smooth and efficient.
Overall, the team is highly professional, well-organised, and client-focused. I would confidently recommend Pearsons Lawyers to others seeking reliable family law support."
Recognised by
Accreditations and memberships
Know where you stand
Talk to us before you decide anything
Your first 30-minute appointment is free via virtual video call (Zoom), or at one of our 20+ locations across Melbourne and Geelong.
















