If you have a family law concern, how do you find the best family lawyers in Cleveland? We wanted to curate this list so that Cleveland residents can more effectively assess the law firms in their area. We recommend these firms for your legal requirements. Use this guide to focus your search.
Quick guide
Selecting best family lawyers in Cleveland
What makes an excellent family legal firm? There’s a lot that goes into effective representation. Our recommendations are based on five criteria:
Reputation
Reputation is key to any service and family legal law is no exception. A firm’s reputation reflects its history, ethics and client satisfaction. In family legal law, where custody, divorce and property matters are often involved, working with a well-regarded firm gives you peace of mind. A good reputation usually means a history of successful outcomes and happy clients. Firms with a good reputation maintain good relationships with other professionals. These connections allow a firm to provide a more well-rounded approach to cases.
When considering a firm’s reputation, client reviews, testimonials and professional awards are common indicators. In Cleveland, reputable firms are well-versed in the local laws and respected in the community. This ensures that they are reliable and trustworthy.
Empathy
Empathy is key for family legal law firms. The cases they deal with are very personal and emotional. Clients seeking assistance are often going through tough times. They may be coping with the end of a marriage, disputes over custody or asset division. Extreme cases may include domestic violence. Lawyers who show compassion offer professional expertise and also create a safe space where clients feel heard and respected. This emotional intelligence enables lawyers to approach cases with sensitivity and craft solutions that put the well-being of all parties, especially children, at the forefront.
Empathetic communication builds trust and encourages open communication which is essential for resolving the case. Firms that are empathetic stand out for being able to provide both legal advice and emotional support so clients feel supported throughout the process.
Communication
Good communication is what sets great family legal law firms apart. Clear, timely and transparent communication means clients understand their options, rights and obligations. Family legal law matters involve complex legal jargon and processes so lawyers need to break it down into simple and practical advice. Open communication between clients and their lawyers means collaboration and confidence in the strategy.
Clients need to feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns without fear of being dismissed or ignored. Top family legal law firms, as well as those specialising in employment law, property law, and other legal services, prioritise regular updates and proactive communication. With experienced lawyers at the helm, they ensure clients are informed and involved every step of the way. This level of communication reduces confusion and leads to more tailored and effective solutions.
Availability
Availability is crucial not only in family legal law but also in areas like employment law, property law, immigration law, and succession law, where decisions can have long-lasting consequences. Legal proceedings often require quick action, whether it’s responding to court deadlines, dealing with emergencies, or negotiating settlements. Firms offering a broad range of legal services and legal assistance demonstrate their commitment to putting clients first and adapting to the intricate nature of legal matters. Lawyers who are available and responsive help reduce the stress that comes with these situations, making clients feel supported and reassured in their time of need.
Availability also means the firm can provide personal attention and show each case is being handled with care. Whether dealing with family law matters, retail shop leases, or estate administration, the Cleveland lawyers we recommend are known for their high standards of responsiveness. Offering a wide range of legal services, these firms ensure clients can feel confident their matters will be dealt with quickly, professionally, and with the utmost attention to detail.
Cost-effectiveness
Cost is a significant consideration when choosing a family law firm, as well as for matters involving personal injury, criminal offence, or cases in the Supreme Court. Legal matters can be expensive, and cost-effective legal practitioners, including experienced Cleveland lawyers, balance quality of service with affordability. It’s not just about finding the cheapest option but achieving the best outcome without unnecessary expense. Transparency in billing is crucial—clients should clearly understand hourly rates, fixed fees, or additional costs. Cost-effective firms are efficient, avoiding delays and focusing on timely and practical solutions to resolve legal matters effectively.
Reputable family law firms often offer an initial consultation to discuss costs, ensuring clients can budget accordingly. Whether dealing with matters in the Supreme Court, Magistrates Court, or addressing services wills and other legal matter, cost-effective firms prioritise making quality legal representation accessible. By handling cases efficiently and in a timely manner, these firms provide clients with peace of mind, ensuring they receive the support they need without unnecessary financial strain.
Before we begin
You might have found this article by searching for “best lawyers in Cleveland” or something similar. However, it’s not our intention to single out any firms as being ‘the best.’ We don’t believe any law firm can be described that way, especially when addressing diverse legal matters such as drug driving, prenuptial agreements, or cases in the Magistrates Court. Every client’s case is unique to their circumstances. Our goal with this guide is to provide general recommendations of firms across South East Queensland that we’re confident can meet your legal needs. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which firm you want to partner with. Now, let’s begin.
Hopper Mott Bunting Lawyers
Hopper Mott Bunting Lawyers is a family-owned law firm that has served the Cleveland community since 1970. Over the decades, they have built a reputation for quality legal representation across various areas of law, including criminal matter, Magistrates Court cases, and legal matters such as drink driving offences and estate planning. They also provide assistance with aged care facilities and conveyancing. Their experienced lawyers are dedicated to guiding clients through the entire process, offering comprehensive support in family law and beyond.
Key services
Family law
Domestic violence matters
Criminal law
Estate law
Conveyancing
Consumer law
Traffic law
Best part
The firm has decades of experience and a deep connection with its local community.
Their team consists of experts in many different fields of law, which enables them to provide comprehensive advice.
What their clients say
Jim, Helen and Will from Mott and Associates have looked after a number of matters for me and each time they have gone above and beyond to ensure that the best outcomes and most thorough and complete work has been delivered. They are fantastic at what they do and I couldn't recommend highly enough!
- Bryan McCartney
McCarthy Durie Lawyers
For over 45 years, McCarthy Durie Lawyers has operated as a full-service firm in Brisbane. They have developed connections with professionals across many industries, enabling them to provide holistic support when approaching cases. With an experienced team that includes senior associate, the firm offers expert assistance in matters such as spousal maintenance, disqualified driving, and more.
McCarthy Durie Lawyers combines the resources of a large firm to deliver a broad range of services with the personal touch of a boutique firm. Whether navigating complex legal challenges or seeking straightforward solutions, their clients are assured they will receive tailored advice and exceptional care. Family law clients are truly in good hands.
Key services
Family law
Property law
Personal services
Estate planning
Financial services
Employment law
Commercial Litigation
Best part
McCarthy Durie Lawyers has connections with professionals from many different fields that allow them to provide comprehensive support.
They combine a large firm’s resources with a boutique firm’s client-focused dedication.
What their clients say
I have engaged McCarthy Durie Lawyers (Bruce Sargent and Yvette Palmer) now for a few years and have found them incredibly professional and efficient. They explain in detail what is involved and I'm always updated along the way via phone calls and emails.
- Kristen Loftus
RMO Law
RMO Law understands that each client has unique needs. Located in Brisbane City, their team is comprised of experts in many legal fields, including criminal matters and conveyancing matters. Their approach is defined by collaboration, a deep understanding of the law, and tailored strategies designed to serve the best interests of their clients.
With an experienced team that includes senior associate, they proudly work as a preferred supplier for Legal Aid Queensland. Clients with family law concerns will benefit from their practical advice, honed over more than 40 years. The thousands of satisfied clients they’ve served are a testament to the firm’s strong reputation and commitment to excellence.
Key services
Family law
Conveyancing
Commercial litigation
Criminal and traffic law
Estate litigation
Domestic violence matters
Best part
The firm provides tailored solutions to each client’s unique issues through a collaborative approach.
They’re a preferred supplier for Legal Aid Queensland, offering their significant expertise to financially vulnerable clients.
What their clients say
Thank you for your support throughout this whole matter and especially on mediation day. Mediation day was made much better as I felt I had a friend by my side. Thanks again for your support and great work.
- NB
Connor Hunter Law Firm
Connor Hunter Law Firm was established in 1971 through the merger of two previous firms. With offices in Brisbane City and the Sunshine Coast, the firm has a time-honoured tradition of working closely with their local community. Their team has broad experience across various legal fields, including traffic matters, consent orders, enduring powers, and general powers of attorney, as well as representing clients at different levels of court.
While they passionately defend clients in litigation, they prioritise amicable solutions whenever possible, focusing on provide advice and employing dispute resolution techniques to avoid unnecessary and stressful court action. For further information, their dedicated team is ready to assist with a wide range of legal needs.
Key services
Estate planning
Family law
Criminal law
Traffic matters
Property law
Best part
Connor Hunter Law Firm has displayed a dedicated community focus since its inception in 1971.
Their team has a broad range of expertise that focuses on mediation over litigation.
What their clients say
Andrea and the entire team at Connor Hunter were just excellent. I had some unexpected challenges in the process and Andrea was so helpful to guide me through the process to a very successful outcome. Highly recommend!
- Renee O'Dell
Shanahan Family Law
Shanahan Family Law has developed a strong reputation with its clients and the community for its empathetic legal services and actionable advice. Operating since 2009, the firm has delivered successful outcomes to thousands of clients. Based on the Sunshine Coast and serving areas including the Gold Coast, Shanahan Family Law is a family law specialist with extensive experience.
They assist with property settlements, parenting matters, divorce, testamentary trusts, and more. Luke Shanahan and his team believe it’s not enough for clients to simply ‘get through’ their legal challenges—they aim to achieve the best possible outcome for every client. Whether in negotiations or court, their lawyers are committed to helping clients move forward toward a positive future. For further information, the team is ready to assist with your family law needs.
Key services
Parenting arrangements
Court attendance
Binding financial agreements
Divorce and separation
Domestic violence matters
Best part
Shanahan Family Law approaches every client with compassion and understanding, providing actionable advice for the best results.
Their family law focus allows them to offer specialist representation in family legal matters.
What their clients say
Having experienced the sunny disposition of Danielle at Shanahan Family Law I can say that anyone would be in good hands. Danielle is very understanding and shows great insight in analysing the situation and cutting to the heart of the matter. Both Danielle and Shanahan Law are very professional and respond promptly in a caring manner. Very happy with my choice there.
- Chris Mehonoshen
Cherry Family Lawyers
Cherry Family Lawyers is a dynamic firm with extensive experience in family and criminal matters, offering personalised support tailored to each client’s needs. Serving areas including Brisbane City and the Sunshine Coast, the firm is led by Kate Cherry, a dedicated lawyer who has practised family law since 2000. Kate has a particular interest in children’s matters and serves as an independent children’s lawyer, tirelessly representing children affected by family violence.
She is also an expert in surrogacy law and provides comprehensive assistance in property settlements and other family law issues. Whether navigating complex negotiations or representing clients in court, Cherry Family Lawyers aims for the best possible outcome, ensuring clients feel supported throughout their legal journey.
Key services
Surrogacy law
Criminal law
Parenting and property matters
Divorce and separation
Best part
As an independent children’s lawyer, Kate Cherry is a dedicated advocate for children going through difficult circumstances.
Cherry Family Lawyers approach all family and criminal law cases with compassion and attentiveness.
What their clients say
Kate, Alina and the team at Cherry Family Lawyers are the real deal. I can not fault the way they handled my family court matter - first and foremost in a legal sense, but just as importantly, on a human level. I always felt that they were doing this because they genuinely cared about what the outcome looked like. How many people can say that about their legal team?
- Esther Marshall
Conclusion
Family law involves sensitive issues, often intertwined with other legal matters such as criminal matters or property disputes. Clients need legal assistance that combines empathy, cost-effective solutions, and reliable results. The legal practices we’ve highlighted in this guide offer a range of legal services, supported by experienced lawyers who can provide representation in court or alternative dispute resolution settings.
We believe these six firms can provide the legal expertise and guidance clients need. Hopefully, this list serves as a helpful starting point for those in the Cleveland community seeking effective representation.
