Family Law Solicitors in Cronulla, Menai and Sydney CBD
Compassionate, Expert Family Law Advice Across the Sutherland Shire and Sydney
Southern Waters Legal’s family law team is led by Leona Bennett, Accredited Specialist in Family Law and Collaborative Lawyer, a distinction held by very few solicitors across New South Wales. With offices in Cronulla, Menai and Sydney CBD, we serve clients across the Sutherland Shire and greater Sydney with the depth of expertise and the personal care your situation deserves.
Our team includes multiple solicitors trained in Collaborative Law, an approach designed to help separating couples reach an agreement respectfully, without unnecessary conflict or court proceedings. Where court involvement becomes necessary, we are experienced litigators who will advocate for you with professionalism and care.
Our Experts in Family Law can advise you on:
Parenting Arrangements and Parenting Orders
When a relationship ends, the well-being of your children is the priority. We can help you reach workable parenting arrangements, whether through negotiation, collaborative processes, or by obtaining parenting orders through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Our solicitors approach parenting matters with sensitivity and a focus on the best interests of the children involved.
Property Settlement
Dividing property and finances after a separation is a complex and often emotionally charged process. We provide clear, practical advice on what a fair division of assets and liabilities may look like in your circumstances, taking into account all relevant contributions and future needs. We work to help resolve property matters as efficiently as possible, whether through negotiation or court proceedings.
Divorce
Divorce is the formal legal dissolution of a marriage in Australia and can be applied for once you have been separated for at least 12 months. In most cases, either party can apply for divorce without the other’s consent. We can guide you through the process to help ensure the application is prepared correctly.
Child Support
Understanding child support obligations can be confusing after separation. Whether you are trying to understand what you may be required to pay or what you may be entitled to receive, we can explain how child support is assessed and advise you on your options. We work with the relevant legislative framework to give you clear, practical guidance.
Binding Financial Agreements
A Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) can be entered into before, during, or after a relationship to set out how property and finances would be divided if the relationship ends. Whether you are entering a new relationship, are already in a de facto or married relationship, or are separating, we can advise you on whether a BFA is appropriate for your circumstances and what it should contain.
Collaborative Law and Mediation
Collaborative Law is a process where both parties and their specially trained solicitors work together to resolve family law issues without going to court. It is designed to reduce conflict, protect relationships, particularly for co-parenting, and reach outcomes that genuinely work for both parties. Several of our solicitors are trained Collaborative Lawyers. We also assist with family law mediation and dispute resolution outside of court proceedings.
Leona Bennett — Accredited Specialist in Family Law
Leona holds Accredited Specialist status in Family Law, a distinction held by very few solicitors across New South Wales. Recognised by the Law Society of NSW, this accreditation reflects a demonstrated depth of knowledge and practical experience in all areas of family law, including complex parenting and property matters. Leona is also a Collaborative Lawyer, committed to helping families resolve matters with as little conflict as possible
“With decades of experience in family law, I guide individuals and families through separation and related matters — helping them move forward with clarity, confidence and a focus on long-term outcomes.”
What is Collaborative Law?
Collaborative Law is a structured, out-of-court process where both parties commit to resolving their family law matter respectfully, with the support of specially trained solicitors. Each party has their own collaboratively trained solicitor, and everyone, including the parties, signs an agreement to work towards resolution without going to court.
The process is designed to reduce conflict, lower costs compared to court proceedings, and produce outcomes that genuinely reflect the needs and interests of both parties and any children involved. If the collaborative process breaks down, both solicitors must withdraw, and the parties would need to seek new representation for court proceedings. This incentivises everyone to work towards an agreement.
Flexible Funding Options for Your Family Law Matter
Through JustFund, eligible clients may be able to fund legal fees and disbursements upfront through a dedicated line of credit, allowing you to focus on resolving your matter.
JustFund is not available for parenting-only matters. To find out more or to explore whether you may be eligible, contact us on (02) 9523 5535.
Why Choose Southern Waters Legal for Family Law
- Led by Leona Bennett, Accredited Specialist in Family Law — one of few in NSW
- Multiple solicitors trained in Collaborative Law, focused on resolution over conflict
- Offices in Cronulla, Menai and Sydney CBD, serving the Sutherland Shire and greater Sydney
- Experienced in both collaborative and litigated family law matters
- Caitlin McGrath is a trained Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL)
- Compassionate, practical approach, we understand the human side of family law
- Trusted by families in the Sutherland Shire since 2009
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does a property settlement take?
Do I need to go to court for parenting arrangements?
What is a Binding Financial Agreement and is it enforceable?
What does an Accredited Specialist in Family Law mean?
Consultations are available in person at any of our three offices or by phone and video call.
Enquire about Family law in Cronulla, Menai or Sydney CBD
Our Family Law Solicitors
AREAS WE SERVICE
Cronulla | Sutherland | Miranda | Caringbah | Menai | Engadine | Gymea | Kirrawee | Sylvania | Como | Jannali | Bonnet Bay | Woolooware | Kurnell | Bundeena | Maianbar | Lilli Pilli | Port Hacking | Grays Point | Burraneer | Caringbah South | Dolans Bay | Yowie Bay | Woronora | Woronora Heights | Lucas Heights | Bangor | Barden Ridge | Illawong | Alfords Point | Sydney CBD
TESTIMONIALS
About Simon Bennett
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