Parenting Lawyers and Family Dispute Resolution Specialists
At Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists, we understand that parenting disputes are often the most emotionally challenging aspect of separation and divorce.
For many parents, decisions about where children live, how much time they spend with each parent and how important decisions are made can feel overwhelming.
Our Accredited Family Law Specialists provide compassionate, practical and strategic advice to help parents resolve parenting matters while keeping the best interests of children at the centre of every decision.
Although many people refer to these issues as “child custody” matters, Australian family law now uses terms such as:
- Parenting arrangements
- Parenting orders
- Parental responsibility
- Time spent with parents
Our experienced parenting lawyers assist clients throughout Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and overseas with complex and sensitive parenting disputes.
Child Custody and Parenting Law in Australia
Australian family law recognises that children benefit from arrangements that support their safety, wellbeing and ongoing relationships with important people in their lives, where appropriate.
When parents separate, they may need to reach agreement about matters including:
- Where children live
- The time children spend with each parent
- School holiday arrangements
- Communication between children and parents
- Education and healthcare decisions
- Travel arrangements
- Relocation issues
- Other significant parenting decisions
Every family is different. There is no automatic preference for mothers or fathers. The focus is always on what arrangements best support the individual child or children involved.
Parenting Agreements and Dispute Resolution
Many parenting disputes can be resolved without going to Court.
At Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists, we encourage practical and child-focused solutions wherever possible through:
- Negotiation
- Lawyer-assisted discussions
- Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)
- Mediation
- Parenting plans
- Consent Orders
Our family law mediators and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners help parents communicate effectively, understand their options and work towards workable parenting arrangements.
Parenting Orders and Court Proceedings
If parents cannot reach agreement, an application may be made to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for parenting orders.
Parenting orders can address issues including:
- Living arrangements
- Time spent with each parent
- Parental responsibility
- Communication arrangements
- Specific issues affecting a child’s welfare
Court proceedings can be complex and emotionally demanding. Our experienced parenting lawyers provide strategic advice and representation to protect your interests while maintaining a focus on your children’s needs.
Experienced Parenting Lawyers Melbourne
At Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists, we understand that parenting disputes require more than legal knowledge.
They require:
✔ Understanding of family dynamics
✔ Strong negotiation skills
✔ Practical problem-solving
✔ Sensitivity to the emotional impact of separation
✔ A focus on achieving sustainable outcomes
Our Accredited Family Law Specialists assist parents with:
- Parenting negotiations
- Child custody disputes
- Parenting plans
- Parenting orders
- Family Dispute Resolution
- Mediation
- Relocation disputes
- International parenting matters
- Complex parenting proceedings
Why Choose Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists?
Clients choose MFL because we provide:
✔ Accredited Family Law Specialist expertise
✔ Experienced family law mediators
✔ Resolution-focused strategies
✔ Personalised advice tailored to your circumstances
✔ Flexible service options including unbundled legal services
✔ Support throughout Australia and overseas
Our aim is to help families resolve parenting issues in a way that minimises conflict and supports children through the transition.
Contact Our Child Custody and Parenting Lawyers Melbourne
If you need advice about child custody, parenting arrangements, parental responsibility or parenting disputes, our experienced team can help.
Contact Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists today to arrange your complimentary initial telephone consultation with an Accredited Family Law Specialist.
We will listen to your circumstances, explain your options and help you take the next step with confidence.
About Vanessa Mathews — Accredited Family Law Specialist
Vanessa Mathews
Principal | Accredited Family Law Specialist | Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner | Mediator
This page was prepared and reviewed by Vanessa Mathews, Principal of Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists. Vanessa practises exclusively in family law and assists clients throughout Australia with separation, divorce, parenting disputes, property settlements, financial agreements and other complex family law matters.
Helping families resolve conflict through specialist legal expertise and constructive dispute resolution.
Last reviewed: 24 July 2026
Disclaimer: This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every family law matter is different and you should obtain advice tailored to your circumstances.
