Expertise

Family Lawyers - Divorce Lawyers - Child Custody

FAMILY LAWYERS SHELLHARBOUR

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Extensive Experience

Our family lawyers in Shellharbour work across all areas of family law, including divorce, parenting arrangements, financial settlements, and spousal maintenance.

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Dedicated Team

We aim to make the legal process as straightforward as possible. Our team works closely with you to reduce complexity and offer practical direction, so you’re never left uncertain about your next step.

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Trusted Family Lawyers

We understand how difficult family breakdowns can be. Our approach is thoughtful and focused, helping you make decisions that protect your wellbeing and long-term interests.

Here to Help

Going through a separation or dealing with parenting arrangements, or property division can take a toll on your wellbeing. These situations often come with complex emotions, making it difficult to focus on the steps ahead.


At Kells, our Shellharbour family lawyers understand how personal these challenges are. We are here to provide clear, practical advice to help you make informed choices about your future and your family.


Led by a NSW Accredited Specialist in Family Law, our team includes skilled solicitors, paralegals, and support staff who work together to keep your matter progressing smoothly. We take a team approach to reduce costs and make sure you always have the help you need at each stage.


Our focus is on helping you regain control during a time of uncertainty. Whether you're finalising a financial settlement or working through parenting arrangements, you can count on us to deliver.

Hear Our Story

How Can Our Expert Family Lawyers Help?

Our family lawyers in Shellharbour support individuals facing significant changes in their personal lives. Whether you’re separating, finalising a divorce, dealing with parenting arrangements, managing property division, or addressing superannuation, we are here to provide the support you need to proceed. We also work with clients in de facto and same-sex relationships, as well as those experiencing family violence.

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Have any questions about family law or relationship law?

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I know if I need a family lawyer?

    If you’re facing a relationship breakdown or family-related issue and feel uncertain about your next steps, it’s often worth speaking to a lawyer. A qualified professional can explain your rights, outline your options, and help you make informed choices. You may benefit from legal support if you’re dealing with matters such as:


    • Separation
    • De facto relationships
    • Divorce
    • Same-sex relationships
    • Property settlements
    • Child support
    • Parenting and custody matters
    • Superannuation splitting
    • Family violence

    It’s important to remember that family violence includes more than physical acts. Verbal abuse, financial control, intimidation, and property damage may also fall within this category.

  • What is the Family Law Act in New South Wales?

    The Family Law Act 1975 is a national law that applies across all Australian states and territories, including New South Wales. It provides the legal framework for resolving issues such as divorce, property division, child custody, and spousal support. The Act places strong emphasis on out-of-court resolution, including mediation, and focuses on achieving outcomes that prioritise children’s needs.

  • How does the Family Law Act protect children?

    Children’s safety and wellbeing are central to the Family Law Act. The law requires that all decisions involving children be made with their best interests as the highest priority. This includes supporting healthy connections with both parents where appropriate, shielding children from abuse or neglect, and promoting shared parental responsibility where it is safe to do so. The Act discourages exposing children to conflict, fear, or any form of harm.

  • How long does the divorce process take in Australia?

    The typical timeframe for finalising a divorce in Australia is around four months from the date the application is submitted. However, this can vary depending on court scheduling, the complexity of your circumstances, and whether the application is made jointly or by one party. Additional delays may occur if there are issues around service or disputes that require resolution.

  • What is the difference between a legal separation and divorce?

    While separation marks the end of a couple living together as partners, divorce is the legal dissolution of the marriage.


    • Legal Separation: Couples live apart without formally ending their marriage. It can include parenting arrangements, property division, and spousal support.
    • Divorce: This legally terminates the marriage. Once finalised, both parties are free to remarry.

    Both pathways have emotional and legal implications. Whether you are in the early stages of separation or ready to proceed with divorce, professional support can help you manage each step.

  • Can I change my child custody arrangement after it's been finalised?

    Yes, existing parenting orders can be reviewed if there has been a material change in circumstances. Common reasons for seeking an update include a shift in a child’s needs, a parent's move to a new location, or concerns around safety and wellbeing. Any proposed changes must be in the best interests of the child and will be assessed on that basis by the Family Court.

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Speak to a Shellharbour Family Lawyer

Whether you're navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or property division, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence and care.