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Navigate family challenges with Mahons

Having guided generations of Melburnians through life's most personal and challenging moments, our family law team understands the magnitude of family legal proceedings. Whether you're going through a separation, establishing parenting arrangements, resolving financial matters, or seeking protection from a former partner, we deliver clear and practical advice with a healthy serving of care and understanding.

We're more than just family lawyers – we're trusted advisors here to guide you through some of life's most sensitive and consequential moments. We bring empathy and understanding to every case, offering expert guidance on divorce, parenting plans, financial settlements and intervention orders. Our goal is your peace of mind: the confidence that you and your family's future is secure, and your wellbeing is protected.

Our values

Bringing clarity to complexity

We speak your language. Family law can be confusing and more than a little overwhelming, so we make things simple. We develop practical and personalised guidance, then explain your options clearly.

A century of experience

We’ve been practicing family law in Melbourne since 1929. Over that time we’ve supported individuals and families through endless challenges and changes. We’ve stood the test of time by earning trust.

A distinctly human approach

No two families or situations are the same. We take the time to understand your story, your goals and your concerns, so we can provide the support you need. We’re not just lawyers – we’re people who genuinely care.

Family law specialists

Separation and divorce, custody and parenting plans, family mediation, intervention orders; whatever your legal need, we’ll provide practical, compassionate advice shaped by decades of experience.

Clear communication

We prioritise prompt, clear and considered responses. Per our communication policy, we’ll acknowledge your email or call within 24 hours, so you stay informed and in control at every stage of the process.

Our values
Bringing clarity to complexity

We’ve been practicing family law in Melbourne since 1929. Over that time we’ve supported individuals and families through endless challenges and changes. We’ve stood the test of time by earning trust.

A century of experience

No two families or situations are the same. We take the time to understand your story, your goals and your concerns, so we can provide the support you need. We’re not just lawyers – we’re people who genuinely care.

A distinctly human approach

Separation and divorce, custody and parenting plans, family mediation, intervention orders; whatever your legal need, we’ll provide practical, compassionate advice shaped by decades of experience.

Family law specialists

We prioritise prompt, clear and considered responses. Per our communication policy, we’ll acknowledge your email or call within 24 hours, so you stay informed and in control at every stage of the process.

Clear communication

We prioritise prompt, clear and considered responses. Per our communication policy, we’ll acknowledge your email or call within 24 hours, so you stay informed and in control at every stage of the process.

Our approach to family law

What makes us different? We understand the deeply personal nature of family matters, which is why our support goes far beyond technical legal advice. Our compassionate, human-centred approach is one that we've offered Melbourne families for generations.

Whether you're navigating separation, developing parenting arrangements, resolving financial matters, or needing protection from domestic violence, we work with empathy and understanding to guide you to the best possible outcomes.

We take the time to listen to and understand your priorities, and we develop solutions that protect you and your loved ones. We'll explain your options clearly, and walk side-by-side with you towards a resolution, whether through negotiation, mediation or court representation.

We bring deep knowledge and experience in every aspect of family law
Divorce lawyers

The end of a marriage also represents the start of a new chapter. At Mahons we provide calm, understanding, strategic support through every step of the divorce process, to ensure you move into the next stage of your life with clarity and confidence. We explain your rights, help you reach a fair division of assets, and guide you through parenting arrangements or court filings where required. Our divorce lawyers specialise in handling complex or high-conflict separations, and work to reduce your stress at a challenging time. You’re so much more than the matter you bring to us, so we tailor our guidance to suit you, not just your problem.

Separation lawyers

Separation can bring uncertainty, and presents a number of legal, financial and parenting challenges. Our team of separation lawyers in Melbourne will help you understand your rights and obligations from the moment your relationship ends. We’ll assist with legal advice for separating couples with children, or how to divide property after separation in Victoria. We walk alongside you, offering kind, honest and understanding guidance focused on achieving fair, workable outcomes without unnecessary conflict. Whether married or in a de facto relationship, you can count on us for clear, compassionate assistance when you need it most.

Family court representation

If your family law matter proceeds to court, experienced representation is critical to securing the best possible outcomes. Our highly skilled team of family court lawyers has a long history of representing clients in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. We handle all family court matters: parenting orders, property settlements, enforcement proceedings and more. We offer advice without the legal jargon, so you’re never left confused or overwhelmed. We always aim to resolve matters efficiently and with dignity, but when litigation is necessary, we’re fully equipped to present your case in the strongest possible way.

Child custody lawyers

Our experienced team of child custody lawyers have a long history of helping parents reach practical, child-focused custody arrangements. We always prioritise reaching child custody agreements through negotiation or mediation, but if court proceedings are necessary, we’ll provide strong and effective representation. We know that child custody proceedings are emotionally challenging, so we work hard to minimise stress. We bring genuine care and understanding, and we explain your options in plain language, so you feel informed, supported and confident throughout the entire process.

Parenting plans

Parenting plans provide a flexible and cooperative way to clarify parenting arrangements without the need for formal court orders. At Mahons our parenting plan lawyers help you to create a clear, practical plan that outlines responsibilities, care schedules, communication guidelines and dispute resolution pathways. We create agreements with your child’s best interests at their heart, tailored to the unique needs of your family. If your situation changes, we help you to update the plan. We take a very human approach to a very human situation, focusing on reducing conflict, minimising stress, and creating certainty for everyone involved.

Family mediation

Mediation offers families a constructive, cost-effective alternative to litigation. Our family law mediation services are focused on supporting you through the process to resolve parenting arrangements, property division and other family disputes. We prepare you thoroughly, help you understand your legal rights and work toward fair agreements that deliver long-term stability. Mediation can be a faster and less stressful form of family dispute resolution, and we’re committed to bringing consistency and care to the process, while achieving outcomes that prioritise respect and cooperation.

Financial agreements

Financial agreements between partners – often referred to as prenuptial or postnuptial agreements – can help clarify financial responsibilities and protect assets in the event of separation. In Victoria these binding financial agreements can cover property, superannuation, spousal maintenance and more. As experienced financial agreement lawyers, at Mahons we’ll assist with the preparation and review of financial agreements at any stage of a relationship. We’ll tailor the agreement to your needs, ensure every element is legally sound, and help you to make informed decisions that minimise future conflict. Our clear, caring and confidential approach is designed to put you at ease and give you ultimate peace of mind.

Domestic violence & intervention orders

Efficient and effective legal support is critical in cases of domestic or family violence. We offer care, kindness, understanding and support in these most challenging of situations, helping you to apply for or respond to family violence intervention orders in the Magistrates’ Court. Our intervention order lawyers create a safe, confidential space, and take swift legal action where needed. We can also provide guidance on parenting and property issues that can arise as a consequence of intervention orders in Victoria. Your safety and wellbeing are our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Our seamless process

1.
We understand your needs
We begin with a personalised consultation to understand your situation. No matter the challenge you face – divorce, custody, financial dispute, controlling behaviour – we’ll listen to your story to understand your needs and goals.
2.
We prepare the documentation
Having practiced family law for almost a century, we’ll help you pursue the most effective resolution – be it negotiation, mediation or court proceedings – and stay by your side, supporting you every step of the way.
3.
We offer ongoing support
Resolution reached, we give you total peace of mind by taking care of all documentation – parenting plans, consent orders, financial agreements, court filings – to ensure that everything is legally sound and enforceable.
Testimonial
“I’d like to express my deepest appreciation to Anthony and his team. The professionalism, guidance and support I got whilst going through my family’s legal matter was absolutely fantastic. Would thoroughly recommend this firm to everyone” - Jeanette Hodge

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I’m separating from my partner?

Separation can be overwhelming, but compassionate and sound legal advice can give you the sturdy foundation you need to navigate the process. At Mahons we can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, particularly around children, property and financial arrangements. We’ll help you to take the right steps from the outset, to ensure you reach the best possible outcome.

Can you help with separation or divorce?

We certainly can. We provide practical, compassionate advice on all aspects of your separation, including property settlements, parenting arrangements and divorce proceedings, giving you the clarity you need to move forward and start your next chapter of life with confidence.

What should I do if there’s a parenting dispute?

At Mahons we offer the clear and consistent advice you need to navigate parenting disputes. We understand the emotional challenge of such delicate situations, so we work to walk side-by-side with you through the process, offering not just strategic support, but genuine care and kindness too. We’ll work with you to prioritise your children’s best interests, whether through negotiation, parenting plans, or, if necessary, through court. We know that every family and every situation is different, so we tailor our approach to the specifics of yours.

Do I need to go to court to finalise my separation?

Not necessarily. Many separations can be resolved through negotiation, mediation or collaborative agreements. At Mahons we treat court as more of a last resort: we instead prioritise fair, practical outcomes that avoid unnecessary and drawn-out litigation. That said, if your situation requires a trip to court, we’ll provide strong and effective representation.

How is property divided after separation?

There is no fixed formula for dividing up property during a separation or divorce. The court looks at a number of elements, including contributions (both financial and non-financial), the length of the relationship, the future needs of both parties, and what’s fair. The expert Mahons team is ready to help you negotiate or formalise property settlements that reflect your unique situation.

How can I verify a family lawyer's credentials in Melbourne?

You can verify a Melbourne family lawyer’s credentials by checking that they hold a current practising certificate with the Victorian Legal Services Board. You can also check their reviews or any testimonials that they might provide on their website, to hear from clients who have received support in a situation similar to yours. At Mahons, all our family lawyers are fully qualified, deeply experienced and dedicated to providing clear, practical legal advice. We’re happy to answer any questions regarding our credentials and experience so you feel 100% confident in the support you’re receiving.