Same-Sex Family Lawyers in Sydney
Same-sex family law matters often involve distinct factual and legal complexities, particularly in parenting and financial arrangements. Early, clear, strategic advice is essential.
At Dorter Family Lawyers, we advise clients navigating separation, parenting disputes and financial matters arising from same-sex relationships. Our approach is focused on clarity, control and well-positioned outcomes.
A SYDNEY LAW FIRM YOU CAN TRUST
Why Choose Dorter Family Lawyers & Mediators?
✔ Experts in Family Law, including Accredited Specialists, with specialist knowledge in high-net-worth and complex financial matters
✔ Decades of experience in same-sex marriage and de facto relationship matters
✔ Strategic, discreet, and outcome-focused legal advice
✔ Mediation-first approach to reduce stress and avoid court where possible
✔ Trusted by mental health professionals and family experts across Sydney and globally.
Parenting Matters
Parenting disputes in same-sex relationships may involve complex questions of legal parentage, the rights of non-biological parents, or arrangements involving donors or surrogacy.
We assist with:
Establishing legal parentage
Parenting arrangements and parenting orders
Disputes involving non-biological parents
Relocation and court proceedings
Our approach is child-focused while ensuring your role is clearly defined and protected.
More information of our services are found here:
De-Facto Relationships
Since 2009, de facto couples—including same-sex partners—are entitled to property and parenting arrangements under the Family Law Act. Our expert lawyers guide you through:
Proving a genuine de facto relationship and seeking a court declaration
Negotiating and proceedings for financial orders within required timeframes
Advising you on your rights and entitlements and obligations.
More information for de-facto relationships can be found here.
Financial and Property Matters
We advise on the division of assets following separation, including matters where financial and non-financial contributions are not immediately apparent.
This includes:
Property settlements
Superannuation and liabilities
Binding financial agreements
Complex asset structures
We take a detailed and strategic approach to identifying and advancing clients’ full financial position with precision.
More information of our services are found here:
Strategic Resolution
Where appropriate, matters are resolved through structured negotiation or mediation. Where litigation is required, we act with preparation, focus and precision.
Our approach is outcome-drive, not process-driven.
Sydney Family Law Team.
Led by Rebekah Dorter and our senior partners, our team consists of accomplished professionals who are not only highly knowledgeable in their respective fields of family law but also deeply committed to delivering exceptional results.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Under the Family Law Act, same-sex couples — whether married or de facto — have the same rights and obligations as opposite-sex couples and parents.
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We can represent you at mediation and, if necessary, in Court to ensure your child’s best interests are protected.
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Timeframes vary no matter the type of matter. If you are seeking a declaration of a de facto relationship, this may be an additional step required before you are able to obtain a property settlement. More information on de-facto relationships is found here.
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Yes, but only if there is a dispute as to the nature and length of the relationship. Reaching a consensus of the length of your relationship (if the relationship was de-facto or partially de-facto) then this limits the issues in dispute. We guide you through what documentation is needed.
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If this is an issue in dispute, we help clarify parentage issues and advise on your obligations to the child, whether you are biological, adoptive, or intended parents.
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Parental responsibility is conferred to parents by default under the Family Law Act. Where there is a dispute as to the parents or carers, we guide you and advise accordingly on your rights and obligations, whether you are seeking an order for parental responsibility or decision-making responsibility. Read more about parental responsibility here.
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If you have a Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) and need to enforce it, the first step is to seek urgent advice from an experienced family law specialist. Under the Family Law Act 1975, a financial agreement is legally binding if it meets strict statutory requirements, including independent legal advice for both parties.
If the other party refuses to comply, you may apply to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for enforcement orders. The Court can compel compliance, impose penalties, or, in some cases, set aside the agreement if it is invalid or unenforceable.
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The Court applies principles under the Family Law Act 1975, in a ‘Four-Step Process’. Read more about financial settlements here.
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It is important to speak with an expert family lawyer to discuss your agreement to:
ensure it is within your range of entitlements
the agreement can be formalised to be enforceable
you are advised of unintended consequences of your agreed arrangement
Read more about reaching an agreement here.
Here When You Need Us
If you are separating and need expert legal advice on your financial entitlements, our team is here to help. We provide strategic, confidential, and personalised support to protect your wealth and secure your future.
Book A Confidential Consultation Today
Call (02) 9929 8840 Or Request a call‑back via our contact form.
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