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LGBTIQA+ Same Sex Family Lawyers Melbourne

Our Melbourne-based family law team proudly supports LGBTIQA+ and same-sex couples with clear, compassionate legal advice during divorce, separation, parenting matters and property settlement.

Book Your Free First Appointment

Inclusive Family Law Support

We’ve helped thousands of clients through separation, including many in same-sex relationships and diverse family structures. Our priority is to protect your rights and help you move forward with confidence.

Personalised Legal Advice

Whether you're planning for the future or facing a family law dispute, we’ll help you understand your rights, obligations, and entitlements. Our team offers strategic legal solutions, tailored to your needs.

Free & Confidential First Consultation

Your first meeting is free and completely confidential. Speak with an experienced family lawyer who will provide honest, actionable advice to help you take the next step.

Specialist Family Law Firm

Helping You Through Same-Sex Divorce & Separation

Awards & Memberships

Family Law Accredited Specialist
ALPMA – Australasian Legal Practice Management Association
Law Institute Victoria
Family Law Section – Law Council of Australia
JustFund
eBrief Ready
AABWA – Australian Asian Business Women's Association
CPA Australia
Western Suburbs Law Association Inc
Northern Suburbs Law Association Inc
Doyle's Guide Recommended – Parenting Law 2019
Doyle's Guide Recommended – Family Law 2019

Parenting, Property And Financial Settlements

Get Family Law Support From Our Melbourne Same-Sex Lawyers

Family law matters can be emotionally draining and legally confusing. We're here to guide you through the family law system, providing practical advice and ensuring you feel supported. At Pearsons Family Lawyers, we support individuals and families through separation, divorce, property settlement, and parenting arrangements with compassion and clarity.

Whether your situation is straightforward or complex, our experienced team is here to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From your first consultation to final resolution, we help you understand your rights and move forward with confidence.

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Talk to our family law specialists for practical advice about your family law issue.

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Get The Right Legal Advice

Same Sex Marriage & De Facto Relationship Services

Our Melbourne family lawyers offer a comprehensive range of family law services to address your relationship law needs, during your relationship, and when it breaks down.

We can assist you with:

  • Family Dispute Resolution & Mediation
  • Parenting Matters & Parenting Disputes
  • Adoption & Surrogacy
  • Consent Orders & Binding Financial Agreements
  • Child Support Assessments & Binding Child Support Agreements
  • Court Proceedings
  • Family Violence & Family Violence Intervention Orders
See What Our Clients Say

Client Reviews & Testimonials

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Andrea Guy profile picture
Andrea Guy
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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
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Emma Rowe profile picture
Emma Rowe
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My lawyer was Venus Pham. Venus was excellent. Thank you Venus!
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Sandra Pott profile picture
Sandra Pott
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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!!
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Kathy Sun profile picture
Kathy Sun
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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.
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Yi Zhang profile picture
Yi Zhang
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Jeffrey Hung profile picture
Jeffrey Hung
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I highly recommend Brenda Ling at Pearsons Family Lawyers. She has demonstrated exceptional knowledge in my family law matters and at the same time listening to understand with empathy and compassion. Her advice has given me a clear insight which ultimately resolved my situation without much complications.
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Paul Leone profile picture
Paul Leone
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I recently worked with Sam Dzeladin‑Elez through my separation and divorce settlement, and I couldn’t have asked for better support. Sam was consistently approachable, understanding, and willing to listen to every concern I raised. He guided me through each stage of the process with clarity and patience. While legal matters are always a significant investment, Sam’s fees were clearly explained, transparent, and communicated openly throughout. I always felt informed and confident in the decisions being made. I highly recommend Sam to anyone needing reliable and compassionate legal representation.
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Lynsey Gough profile picture
Lynsey Gough
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Thank you to Lisa Wise and the team at Pearsons lawyers. I cannot recommend enough how important it was to have a well established, highly knowledgeable and experienced team of legal professionals advocating for me, whilst dealing with my family matter and financial settlement. I saw first hand the difference it makes to have the right lawyers on my side. I am so grateful for Lisa, Sara Taylor and the entire team at Pearsons for guiding me through this challenging time in my life.
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Riyaz Abdul profile picture
Riyaz Abdul
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Five stars! I highly recommend Pearson's Lawyers for anyone needing legal representation. Andrew McDonald has been absolutely excellent from day one. He looked after our matter with incredible expertise and experience, resolving everything in just one to two sittings. Andrew made a highly stressful process completely stress-free. He was helpful with drafting paperwork, providing court representation, and following up with the registry office. we have never experienced a single issue throughout the entire process. We couldn't expect anything better. Offering the best results at an affordable cost. Thank you, Andrew and the Pearson's team!
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No Name profile picture
No Name
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I had a really positive experience working with Venus. She was consistently prompt, efficient, and professional, and communicated clearly throughout the entire process. What stood out most was her ability to provide practical, well-considered guidance. She demonstrated strong foresight and strategy, and worked very effectively with the other parties to keep things moving toward resolution. Venus also approached everything with a genuine customer-focused mindset. She was mindful of my time, effort, and cost, and was honest about what was and wasn’t worth pursuing - which I really appreciated. That level of transparency and care goes above and beyond. More broadly, I was very impressed with the firm. Their assessments were accurate, and the outcome aligned closely with what was anticipated, which speaks to their experience and capability. I’d confidently recommend Venus and Pearsons Lawyers to anyone needing family law support.

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During your free appointment with one of our experienced lawyers, we will:

  • Discuss your circumstances and concerns.
  • Answer any questions about the legal process.
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  • Outline the likely costs and timeframes involved.

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(Please note we are closed between 1-2pm)

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Frequently Asked Questions
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What are my parenting rights as a same-sex parent?

Same-sex parents can be recognised as legal parents under the Family Law Act, depending on their involvement and relationship with the child. Parenting arrangements focus on the best interests of the child, regardless of whether it's a same-sex, LGBTIQA+ or heterosexual relationship. You may be eligible for shared or sole care of your children (child custody) and child support payments.

Can same-sex couples adopt in Australia?

Yes, same-sex couples can adopt in all Australian states and territories. The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia will consider what is in the best interests of the child. Adoption may also include legal obligations, such as child support payments, if adopted parents separate.

Can we both be recognised as legal parents if we have a child through IVF or surrogacy?

If a child is born through assisted reproductive technology or surrogacy, legal parent status depends on the situation. The Family Law Act provides pathways for both partners to be recognised. It is vital to seek legal advice to ensure your parental status is secured through the proper court process.

What should we include in a financial agreement or prenup?

Other financial agreements, such as binding financial agreements, should include how assets, debts, and self-managed superannuation funds are divided. To be valid, these must comply with the Family Law Act. Contact our team to chat with an Accredited Family Law Specialist or one of our friendly family lawyers in Melbourne for advice regarding your situation.

How does property settlement work for same-sex couples?

Same-sex and heterosexual relationships are treated equally under the Family Law Act, with the goal being to achieve a fair and equitable outcome after relationships break down. Whether married or in a genuine domestic basis de facto relationship, the division of property must be fair and equitable. Settlements may include real estate, investments such as shares, heirlooms and valuable collections, and superannuation (including self-managed superannuation funds).

How does child support work for same-sex couples?

Same-sex parents have the same child support rights and obligations as heterosexual parents under the Child Support Scheme. If you’re recognised as a legal parent, you may have child support payable or be entitled to receive child support payments. The Child Support Agency uses a formula based on income, care percentage and number of children. Seeking legal advice is always a good idea to understand your entitlements.

Are same-sex de facto couples treated the same as married couples?

Yes. The Family Law Act recognises same-sex de facto relationships on a genuine domestic basis. You can apply for spousal maintenance, parenting time, child support and property settlements. Whether you were married under the Marriage Act amendment or not, you will generally still have access to the same legal services and protections as heterosexual relationships.

Can I apply for a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) in a same-sex relationship?

Yes. In Victoria, anyone experiencing domestic violence, including those in same-sex relationships, can apply for a Family Violence Intervention Order through the Magistrates’ Court. These orders protect you and other affected family members. Family violence is taken seriously, and an intervention order can affect the outcome of family law matters.

Start the Conversation With Our Melbourne Same Sex Family Lawyers Today

If you're ready to speak with someone who will listen and guide you with compassion, we’re here for you. Book your first appointment with one of our friendly same sex family lawyers today.