alta legal.

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alta legal.

Family law focused on you, your goals and a clear path forward.

Book a free consult How we can help

When life changes, clear advice matters.

Separation can be difficult. When everything feels uncertain, a clear plan and a supportive team are essential.

This is the alta legal approach. We listen to your goals and priorities, communicate openly and guide you toward your next chapter with confidence.

About us
Georgia and Rebecca

How we can help.

Our core services and areas of expertise

Separation & Divorce

In the early stages of separation, the right advice makes a meaningful difference. The decisions made at the outset can shape how your interests are protected, both now and into the future.

Property Settlements

Finalising financial matters after separation requires careful analysis and considered planning. We guide you through the process and work to achieve outcomes aligned with your goals.

Parenting Arrangements

Parenting matters require thoughtful, child-focused solutions. We work with you to develop arrangements that are practical, sustainable, and centred on your child's best interests.

Child Support

Child support can involve more than a standard assessment. We advise on private child support agreements and variations.

Spousal Maintenance

Spousal maintenance issues often arise during or after separation, particularly where there is a disparity in income or earning capacity between you and your ex-partner.

Financial Agreements

Financial agreements can provide certainty and protection, whether before or during a relationship.

Consent Orders

Consent Orders formalise an agreement reached after separation without needing to attend court for a hearing.

How we work.

01.

Initial free 30 minute consultation.

We begin with a no-obligation, complimentary consultation. This is your opportunity to share your situation in a safe and confidential space. We will listen carefully, answer your questions, and outline your options so you can feel informed and empowered before deciding on the next steps.

Two women collaborating in an office

02.

Strategic planning & pathway.

Every family law matter is unique. Together, we will map out a clear, tailored pathway that considers your goals, timelines, and priorities. We will identify the key steps, anticipate challenges, and give you a realistic plan that balances legal strategy with your personal circumstances.

Legal consultation in a modern workspace

03.

Progress & action.

Once your plan is in place, we take decisive steps to move your matter forward. Whether it is negotiations, mediation or court, we stay proactive, keep you updated, and ensure each step aligns with your goals. Our approach is collaborative, transparent, and focused on outcomes.

Professional team reviewing documents together

04.

Resolution & next chapter.

Our goal is to reach a resolution that provides clarity and allows you to move forward with confidence. Whether by consent or a court decision, we support you in closing this chapter and planning for the future, offering guidance to help you navigate the next stage of your life.

Client and lawyer discussing progress in a meeting

FAQs.

Answers to our most frequent questions

Early legal advice can help you understand your rights, avoid mistakes, and reach a fair outcome more efficiently. Many people come to us for guidance at the start of a separation to make informed decisions about parenting, property, and finances.
As soon as possible. Early advice helps you understand your options for parenting arrangements, property division, and financial support.
No. You can speak with a family lawyer at any stage of your relationship, even if you have not separated yet. This advice can help you understand your options and take the best steps if separation does occur in the future.
Yes. Everything you discuss with us is strictly confidential and protected by legal professional privilege.
Some matters require urgent action, for example: - Assets at risk - property may be sold, transferred, or hidden - Children at risk - a child may be taken overseas without your consent - No access to funds - you may be left without financial support In these situations, it may be necessary to apply to the Court for urgent or interim orders to protect your position. Contact us as soon as possible, and we will advise on the best next steps.
Separation occurs when a relationship ends and at least one person decides it is over. Divorce is the formal legal process of ending a marriage through the Court. In Australia, you can apply after 12 months of separation.
No. Property and parenting arrangements can be, and often are, finalised before divorce.
Yes. This is called "separation under the same roof". You can be considered separated even if living in the same home, provided the relationship has genuinely ended.
Parents can reach agreement privately, through mediation, or, if necessary, the Court can decide. The child's best interests are always the primary consideration.
No. Many clients resolve parenting matters through negotiation or mediation. Agreements can then be formalised into consent orders, which are just as legally binding as orders made in a court room.
Mediation (Family Dispute Resolution) is a structured process where an independent mediator helps parents try to reach an agreement. It can be done with or without lawyers present. In most cases, mediation is required before starting court proceedings unless an exception applies. We can guide you through the process and explain your options.
Children's views may be considered depending on age and maturity, but the Court makes decisions based on what is in the child's best interests.
A parent can apply for child support at any time. Payments usually start from the date the application is processed or from a date the parents agree on.
Yes. Parents can make private child support agreements about how much support will be paid, in addition to or instead of the standard formula under the Child Support Agency. Child support agreements can be registered with the Child Support Agency to make them legally enforceable. We can help you prepare agreements that are clear and legally binding.
Property division takes into account: - assets and liabilities of both parties - financial and non-financial contributions - future needs (income, health, care of children) - whether the overall outcome is fair We will discuss these factors with you and explain how they apply to your situation.
Married couples: within 12 months of divorce De facto couples: within 2 years of separation Seeking legal advice early can help ensure you do not miss these deadlines.
Consent orders make agreements legally binding. Without them: - arrangements may not be enforceable - either party could change their mind - court proceedings could be started years later
No. If both parties agree and the orders are correctly drafted, the Court can approve them without anyone attending.
Consent orders are court-approved. They are the most common way to finalise property and/or parenting matters after separation. Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) are private agreements, usually made before or during a relationship about how property and finances would be divided if the relationship ends. To be legally binding, strict rules apply. We can advise which option best suits your situation and ensure it is legally valid.
Costs vary depending on the matter's complexity. During your consultation, we provide a clear estimate and explain our fee structure.
Yes. Many matters are resolved through negotiation or mediation.
Timeframes depend on the issues and whether agreement can be reached. Some matters resolve in a few months; more complex matters take longer. We aim to progress all matters efficiently while protecting your interests.
Changing existing court orders is rare and can be difficult. For parenting matters, a change is only considered if there has been a significant change of circumstances since the orders were made. Property orders can usually only be varied in exceptional situations. We can review your case and advise whether seeking a variation is suitable.
As a boutique family law practice, we provide: - Personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances - Direct access to your lawyer, who is also a Director of the firm - Practical, solution-focused guidance - Supportive and respectful assistance during a difficult time
Yes. Consultations are available by phone, video, or in person, depending on your preference.
Contact us via web enquiry, email, or phone to book a free 30-minute consultation. We will take the time to understand your situation and explain how we can help you move forward.

Ready to book a consult?

We are here to help.

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Insights & Articles.

Divorce in Australia: What You Need to Know

Making the decision to separate is rarely straightforward. Alongside the emotional side of things, there are often practical questions about what happens next, how divorce works, and when legal steps need to be taken.

Rebecca Zanol

Rebecca Zanol

Director - Family Law

Georgia Pitsadiotis

Georgia Pitsadiotis

Director - Family Law

Read article