Family Law IN the Northern Rivers

  • Clear legal guidance
  • Client-focused & committed
  • Established in 2008

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Northern Rivers Family Law

Family law is one of the most personal areas of legal practice, involving decisions that can affect children, property, finances and future wellbeing. At McVittie Legal, we assist individuals and families in the Northern Rivers with legal advice across a broad range of family law matters. Our focus is on helping clients move forward with clarity, dignity and confidence, especially during periods of change.


We support people through separation, parenting negotiations, financial settlements and applications to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Our service includes advice on consent orders, binding financial agreements, spousal maintenance, and urgent parenting issues. Each matter is handled with care and legal accuracy, with practical solutions based on the individual circumstances involved.


Our team takes a calm and structured approach to resolving legal issues, aiming to reduce unnecessary conflict and uncertainty. We listen carefully to understand each client’s priorities, explain legal pathways in plain language, and guide the process from start to finish. Every family is different, and our role is to provide support that reflects this. We also remain focused on meeting legal obligations and helping clients achieve fair outcomes without compromising long-term stability.


For family law support, call us on 02 6628 8677.

Family Law Services & Support

We offer comprehensive support across all aspects of family law, including divorce, parenting arrangements, property division and financial agreements. Our services are designed to guide individuals and families through both the legal and emotional complexities of separation or relationship breakdown. For parenting matters, we assist with parenting plans, consent orders, court applications and urgent care arrangements, always keeping the child’s best interests as the primary focus. Our team also provides advice on spousal maintenance, asset distribution, superannuation division and debt responsibilities following separation. Where appropriate, we assist with negotiation or mediation to reach agreements without the need for court.


Clients also receive assistance with binding financial agreements, which may be prepared before, during or after a relationship. These agreements can offer clarity and certainty in managing future financial decisions. Throughout every matter, we provide legal documents that are accurate, enforceable and compliant with the Family Law Act. Our process includes full financial disclosure and ongoing legal guidance to help clients understand each step before proceeding.


We prioritise honest communication, legal accuracy and respectful engagement, with the goal of resolving matters efficiently and with minimal stress. No matter how complex or straightforward the issue, we provide advice that supports long-term outcomes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is considered family law in Australia?

    Family law in Australia refers to legal matters that arise from family relationships, such as marriage, de facto partnerships, separation and parenting. This area of law includes divorce, parenting arrangements, child support, property settlement and spousal maintenance. It is governed primarily by the Family Law Act 1975 and is administered by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Family law also includes matters related to adoption, surrogacy and family violence. Legal processes vary depending on the issue, and in many cases, parties are encouraged to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation before involving the court.

  • Do I need a lawyer for family law matters?

    While not legally required, having a lawyer can significantly improve the clarity, accuracy and outcome of family law matters. Legal professionals provide advice on your rights, obligations and entitlements under the law. They help prepare documents, negotiate with the other party, represent you in court if needed and assist in compliance with legal procedures. A lawyer’s guidance can reduce stress, prevent costly mistakes and protect your interests, especially when children, property or financial matters are involved.

  • What is a binding financial agreement?

    A binding financial agreement (BFA) is a private contract between two people that outlines how their property, finances and other assets will be managed during or after their relationship. BFAs can be made before marriage or cohabitation (commonly referred to as prenuptial agreements), during the relationship or after separation. These agreements are legally enforceable if properly drafted and executed in accordance with the Family Law Act. Each party must receive independent legal advice before signing, and the agreement must meet specific legal criteria to be valid.