Family Law Services Sunshine Coast
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Divorce, Parenting and Property Settlement Legal Services
Based in Maroochydore, we provide legal services to individuals and families across the Sunshine Coast. Founded by Luke Shanahan in 2009, our firm has helped more than 4,000 clients navigate separation, divorce, parenting arrangements and property settlements.
Urgent Family Law Help in Maroochydore
Call Shanahan Family Law on (07) 5408 4470 or book a free discovery call. Our Maroochydore family lawyers act on urgent parenting disputes, child recovery and relocation matters, domestic violence protection orders and upcoming court hearings. When a matter can’t wait, we may be able to speak with you on the same business day.
What counts as an urgent family law matter?
A matter is usually urgent if a child has been taken or withheld, a child may be moved overseas or interstate, someone’s safety is at risk, property may be sold or hidden, you have a protection order hearing, or you have a court date coming up.
How does the court handle urgent applications?
Since 22 April 2025, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia gives urgent Initiating Applications a first court date as soon as they are filed. A Registrar then assesses the urgency and may bring the date forward.
We can prepare urgent court applications, give you advice before a hearing and help you take steps to stop a child leaving Australia. The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia explains that the court can make orders to stop a child being removed from Australia, ask the Australian Federal Police to put the child’s name on the Family Law Watchlist, and make orders about a child’s passport.
What if it is outside office hours?
Our office is open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5pm and Friday 8:30am to 3pm. If someone is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 domestic violence support, call DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811, DVConnect Mensline on 1800 600 636 or 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
How can I pay for urgent legal help?
Your first step is a free discovery call. We discuss fees at the outset and set out our costs in writing. We are JustFund accredited, so if your separation involves a property settlement, approved clients can have legal fees paid by JustFund and repay them when the settlement is finalised. If you cannot afford a private lawyer, Legal Aid Queensland, which has an office in Maroochydore (1300 65 11 88), or Suncoast Community Legal Service in Maroochydore ((07) 5376 7800), where our lawyers volunteer, may be able to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services
How Do I Know Which Service I Need?
You don’t need to know which legal service applies before contacting us. We offer a free discovery call to understand what is happening in your family, what concerns you most and what you want to achieve. Whether your situation involves separation, children, property or financial agreements, our Maroochydore team can help identify the legal issues and explain the next steps. You can ask questions before deciding whether to proceed with legal representation.
What Happens During My First Consultation?
Your first step is a free discovery call with our team. We want to understand your circumstances, whether there are urgent issues involving children or safety, and what kind of legal assistance you may need. We’ll explain the next steps and discuss potential legal costs. You don’t need to arrive with every document or a complete plan. Beginning with a conversation can help you understand where to go from here.
Can We Resolve Our Legal Matter Without Going to Court?
Yes. Many family law matters can be resolved through negotiation, mediation or agreements that are formalised appropriately. At Shanahan Family Law, our approach is to consider practical solutions before unnecessary litigation. Where suitable, we can assist with parenting arrangements, property settlements and consent orders. If an agreement isn’t possible, or there are safety concerns or urgent circumstances, we can explain the legal options available, including court proceedings.
How Much Will My Legal Matter Cost?
Your first step is a free discovery call. The cost of your matter depends on its complexity and how it is resolved. We discuss fees at the outset and set out our costs in writing, so you know what to expect. If your separation involves a property settlement, approved clients may be able to have legal fees paid by JustFund and repay them when the settlement is finalised.
Do I Need to Be Divorced Before Sorting Out Property or Parenting Arrangements?
No. In Australia, you can generally begin making parenting arrangements or resolving a property settlement after separation without waiting for a divorce. Divorce is the legal process that ends a marriage, while parenting and financial matters are separate issues. There are important time limits for some property and maintenance applications, so early advice matters. Our team can help you understand which issues need attention now and which can be addressed later.
