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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.
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Call 1300 699 688

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

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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.

Call 1300 699 688

Book Your Free First Appointment
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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
Book Your 30-min Free Appointment

Where We Can Help

Our Family Law Services

Divorce

Domestic Violence

Child Support & Agreements

Property Settlements

Custody & Arrangements

LGBTIQA+ Same Sex Families

Intervention Orders

De Facto Relationships

Spousal Maintenance

Child Custody

Wills & Estates

Binding Financial Agreements

See What Our Clients Say

Client Reviews & Testimonials

Excellent
Pearsons Lawyers
Based on 94 reviews
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missmoshir R.
Margaret made the probate process simple and was very professional.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words. We're glad Margaret made the probate process simple and professional for you.
S M.
Thank you to Sam Dzeladin-Elez who listened, and explained, to us the complexities of the situation at a level that a non-legal person could understand. We were very grateful to have his assistance.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your great feedback. We're so pleased Sam could explain the complexities clearly and provide the support you needed.
Catia M.
Very professional and the staff take the time to explain things thoroughly.
Response from the owner:Catia, thank you for your feedback. We're delighted our team took the time to explain everything thoroughly and professionally.
Brett S.
Quick easy and professional with an affordable price to do my will and power of attorney. Thanks to Margaret and the team. I would recommend Pearsons!
Response from the owner:Brett, thank you for your recommendation. We're happy Margaret and the team made your will and power of attorney process quick, easy, and affordable.
Tyler H.
I dealt with Brenda Ling for my separation. She was respectful throughout the entire process, and found a very good balance between being compassionate, considerate and honest with my expectations. Brenda has a good ability to explain things at different levels of understanding through what is understandably a stressful and unfamiliar process. I received a recommendation for Brenda from a trustworthy friend, and would happily recommend her to others.
Response from the owner:Tyler, thank you for your thoughtful review. We're glad Brenda's compassionate and clear approach made such a difference during your separation. Your recommendation means a lot to us.
Rob
It was a pleasure to deal with Pearsons Lawyers, Glenroy.... I had the honour of having Joseph Schepis and Amanda Vella help me through my divorce proceedings and it made a difficult time in my life so much easier.
Both Joe, Amanda and all the staff in the office were very friendly, sympathetic and professional and I couldn't have got through it without all of there help and advice.

I highly recommend Pearsons Lawyers, Glenroy for all family matters needs.

Thanks again to the whole team.
Rob.
Response from the owner:Joe and Amanda are a formidable team of lawyers at Pearsons and as with all of the Pearsons staff, they work tirelessly to obtain great results for clients. Thank you for letting us know what a difference we made to your life
Hisney N.
My case had been dragging on for several years with no outcome. When I approached Pearson Lawyers they took the time to explain my options clearly and moved things forward quickly. I was genuinely impressed with how fast they reached a settlement and closed the matter within couple of months.

A big shout-out to Venus Pham and the team at Pearson Lawyers for handling everything so efficiently. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Hisney, thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so pleased that Venus and the team were able to clearly explain your options and move things forward to a swift settlement after such a long journey. Your recommendation means a great deal to us.
NIKKI C.
Margaret Stockdale was very knowledgeable and efficient in assisting us with our wills
Response from the owner:Nikki, thank you for your lovely feedback. We’re so glad Margaret’s knowledge and efficiency made the process smooth for you.
Serge M.
We engaged Brenda Ling to assist with a property settlement matter and were extremely impressed with her professionalism and expertise. She provided clear guidance, thorough advice, and efficient service throughout the process.

Brenda demonstrated exceptional attention to detail and ensured that every aspect of the matter was handled smoothly and effectively. Her communication was prompt and concise, making it easy for us to stay informed and confident in every decision.

We highly recommend Brenda to anyone seeking a knowledgeable, reliable, and dedicated lawyer. It was a pleasure working with her.
Response from the owner:Serge, thank you for your kind words. We’re so pleased Brenda’s professionalism made a difference for you during your property settlement. Wishing you all the best.
Relax and H.
Brenda was exceptionally supportive, professional, and compassionate throughout a very difficult time. Her clear guidance, understanding, and dedication made a challenging process far easier. Highly recommended for sensitive family matters
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. We’re delighted Brenda could provide clear guidance and compassionate support when it was needed most. Your recommendation means a lot to us.
Shyanakie
I would sincerely like to thank Andrew MacDonald and the team for the excellent support and guidance given throughout the whole process. I appreciate it greatly as it was a very emotional and challenging time for me.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Shyanakie. Andrew and the team are glad they could support you through such an emotional and challenging time. Your gratitude means a great deal to us.
Simon J. Costa A.
I have been extremely impressed with the service and professionalism of Pearsons Lawyers, in particular their Principal Lawyer, Joseph Schepis. Joe was highly attentive in all of our discussions and meticulous in his approach. He has a deep knowledge of family law. When required, he is strong and assertive, yet always cautious and considered in his decisions. I found him to be decisive, diligent in his research, and unwavering when standing up for his clients.
I highly recommend Joe and the team at Pearsons Lawyers.
Response from the owner:Simon, thank you for your generous feedback. We’re honoured by your recognition and are so pleased our team could provide the service and professionalism you were seeking. We appreciate your recommendation and it means a lot to us.

News & Insights

Our Latest Articles

What Is Spousal Maintenance in Australia?

What Is Spousal Maintenance in Australia?

Spousal maintenance is a form of financial support that one partner may need to pay the other when a marriage or de facto relationship ends. Under the Family Law Act, the aim of spousal maintenance...

read more

Let Us Help You With Your Family Law Matter

Begin Your Legal Journey With Us Today


Free, No-Obligation Consultation


Book your first appointment with one of our compassionate family lawyers at one of our Melbourne offices or over the phone.

Clear, Actionable Advice


We’ll listen to your concerns, explain the law in simple terms, and help you explore the best legal pathway for your situation, as well as any expected legal costs.

Move Forward With Confidence


When you’re ready to take action, we’ll be right beside you. With our guidance and support, you can approach the future with clarity and strength.

Know Where You Stand

Book Your 30-min Free Appointment

During your free appointment we will:

  • Discuss your circumstances.
  • Answer any questions about the divorce process.
  • Discuss your options.
  • Advise you of your entitlements.
  • Provide you with information about the cost of a divorce and separation.

Call our office or fill in the contact form to book your free appointment.

Call Pearsons Lawyers

Office Hours

Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm
(Please note we are closed between 1-2pm)

> Office Locations

> Call 1300 699 688

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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.

Book Your Free First Appointment