Our Purpose
Connect Family Law provides quality and accessible legal services with a focus on healing animosity. We create a workplace that supports the next generation of lawyers and offers a welcoming space for clients. We believe in doing things differently because every family has a different story to tell.
Our Vision
Ensuring regional families have access to compassionate, quality legal services, regardless of their circumstances.
Our Values
We provide compassionate, quality legal support to families during challenging times. We prioritise empathy, integrity, respect, and open communication and innovation to achieve the best outcomes for our clients and our community.
Our Team
Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing compassionate, quality legal support to families during challenging times.
Michelle Oates
Principal Solicitor
B/LLP(Hons), BJus, GAICD
Alix O'Donnell
Senior Solicitor
B/LLP
Eva Rouse
Solicitor
B/LLB (Hons)
Deborah D'Errico
Paralegal / Practice Manager
Francie-Anne Costa
Business Development Officer
Jacquie Brady
Administration Assistant
Jo Zappia
Conveyancing Clerk / Law Clerk
Zach Oates
Operations Manager
Our Services
Interactive Service Timelines
Click any service tile to reveal a step-by-step process
Separation / Divorce
What comes next?
The legal process of ending a relationship/marriage in Australia.
Learn More →Parenting Arrangements
Figuring out care for the kids after separation
Creating parenting plans and arrangements for children following separation.
Learn More →Property Settlements
Who gets what when we separate?
Dividing assets and liabilities between separating couples.
Learn More →Binding Financial Agreements
Setting things in stone – privately
Creating legally binding agreements about financial matters.
Learn More →Consent Orders
We've agreed... let's make it official
Turning an agreement into a legally binding court order.
Learn More →Family Violence Matters
Help, I need protection / I've been served with an order
Assistance with intervention orders and family violence issues.
Learn More →Mediation & FDR
Let's sort it out together (with help)
Resolving disputes with the assistance of an impartial third party.
Learn More →Book an Appointment
Funding Solutions
Our Fixed Fee Model
At Connect Family Law, we believe that navigating family law shouldn't come with financial uncertainty. That's why we offer a fixed fee model for many of our services. It's simple: you'll know upfront what your legal costs will be — no surprise bills, no watching the clock.
What is a fixed fee?
A fixed fee is a set amount you agree to pay for a specific service. Instead of charging by the hour, we scope your matter and give you a clear quote for the work we'll be doing. This might include preparing court documents, attending mediations, or finalising a property settlement.
If things change or new work is required, we'll talk to you first — not just send another invoice.
Why do we do it?
Because we think you deserve better than unpredictable legal costs.
We know that separation, divorce, parenting disputes and property settlements are some of life's most stressful moments. The last thing you need is to worry about how much your lawyer's bill will be at the end of the month.
Our fixed fee approach is:
- •Transparent – You know exactly what you're paying for, and why.
- •Fair – We focus on outcomes, not billable hours.
- •Empowering – With financial clarity, you can make informed decisions that support your future.
At Connect, we value relationships over transactions. Our pricing model reflects that — clear, honest, and centred on your needs.
If you'd like to learn more about how fixed fees could work for your situation, get in touch. We're here to walk alongside you, with practical advice, steady support and no surprises.
Financing Family Law Matters
Financing Family Law Matters
We have partnered with JustFund as a practical and compassionate solution for clients who need support covering legal costs. Through our partnership, eligible clients can access a flexible line of credit to help manage legal fees and expenses, with nothing to repay until after a settlement is reached.
Unlike traditional lenders, JustFund does not look at income or credit scores to approve funding support for family law matters.
This kind of flexible funding can be life-changing—particularly for those who are financially dependent on a partner, experiencing family violence, or trying to navigate a complex separation without the immediate means to proceed.
By introducing legal finance early in the process, we want to help ensure that no one is denied quality legal representation simply because of their financial position.
Who is JustFund?
JustFund is Australia's first and only dedicated family law finance provider that partners with leading family law firms to make legal representation more accessible—especially for those facing financial hardship.
Accessing legal services can feel impossible when money is tight. Whether you're financially dependent on your partner, experiencing family violence, or managing a mortgage and daily living costs, the burden of legal fees can put justice out of reach. JustFund aims to remove that barrier by providing a flexible, affordable line of credit tailored to your legal case.
Key Benefits
- •No income or credit score requirements
- •Nothing to repay until after settlement
- •Flexible line of credit for legal expenses
- •Available at any stage of the separation process
- •Empowers you to move forward with confidence
Important: JustFund's services only cover matters related to property settlements. Unfortunately, JustFund cannot cover cases that only involve parenting arrangements. However, if you're organising parenting and property matters simultaneously, JustFund can assist.
How JustFund Works
Application
Visit JustFund using the link below to apply online or give them a call to discover how they can assist with your family law fees. They work with us to execute the process and get you the support you need quickly.
Assessment
JustFund determine eligibility for a line of credit to cover family law fees within one week, once they've received all the necessary information.
Approval
If approved, JustFund advance the funds you need to cover family law fees and disbursements, giving you the support to manage legal costs until your property matter is settled.
Repayment
Repay the family law fees only when the matter is settled and what you receive from your property settlement.
Ready to Explore Funding Options?
Funding with JustFund can be accessed at any stage of the separation process and is repaid only after your settlement. By simplifying access to legal finance, JustFund empowers people to move forward with confidence, dignity, and support—when they need it most.
For more information on funding, please contact us or visit justfund.com.au
Get Started Today