Family Law Support, Right Here in Ballarat
When life changes – through separation, divorce, or figuring out what’s next for your family – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might not know where to start or who to trust. That’s where we come in.
At Umbrella Family Law, we’re not just about paperwork and processes. We’re about people. We believe good family law starts with listening, and we’re proud to now offer in-person support right here in Ballarat.
What we can help with
Property Settlement
You and your former partner have separated, and the time has come for you to divide the assets and liabilities that you have.
View MoreParenting
At Umbrella Family Law, we understand the complexities of family dynamics and are here to support you through this process with empathy and compassion.
View MoreDivorce
Transitioning through divorce can be overwhelming. Let our empathetic team provide you with the calm and knowledgeable legal counsel you need to navigate this journey.
View MorePet Custody
We are proud to have been Australia’s first law firm with all lawyers formally trained in pet custody, through expert guidance from Karis Nafte, the world’s leading specialist in pet custody.
View MoreFinancial Agreements
A Binding Financial Agreement deals with what should happen to your property in circumstances where you and your partner separate.
View MoreFamily Violence
Family violence is not limited to physical abuse. People often fail to recognise other forms of family violence experienced by them or their loved ones.
View MoreInternational Relocation
During separation, a parent may seek to relocate to their home country with the child without the other parent's consent.
View MoreParenting Coordination
A child-focused dispute resolution process aimed at implementing parenting plans or orders.
View MoreNegotiation
Discover alternative approaches to resolving family law disputes at Umbrella Family Law: negotiation, mediation, and collaborative practice offer effective alternatives to litigation.
View MoreFamily Support
Coaching, referral and planning for all aspects of dealing with your new life.
View MoreGuardianship & Administration
Guardians or administrators are appointed to make decisions for individuals with disabilities who cannot do so themselves.
View MoreProperty Settlement
You and your former partner have separated, and the time has come for you to divide the assets and liabilities that you have.
View MoreParenting
At Umbrella Family Law, we understand the complexities of family dynamics and are here to support you through this process with empathy and compassion.
View MoreDivorce
Transitioning through divorce can be overwhelming. Let our empathetic team provide you with the calm and knowledgeable legal counsel you need to navigate this journey.
View MorePet Custody
We are proud to have been Australia’s first law firm with all lawyers formally trained in pet custody, through expert guidance from Karis Nafte, the world’s leading specialist in pet custody.
View MoreFinancial Agreements
A Binding Financial Agreement deals with what should happen to your property in circumstances where you and your partner separate.
View MoreFamily Violence
Family violence is not limited to physical abuse. People often fail to recognise other forms of family violence experienced by them or their loved ones.
View MoreInternational Relocation
During separation, a parent may seek to relocate to their home country with the child without the other parent's consent.
View MoreParenting Coordination
A child-focused dispute resolution process aimed at implementing parenting plans or orders.
View MoreNegotiation
Discover alternative approaches to resolving family law disputes at Umbrella Family Law: negotiation, mediation, and collaborative practice offer effective alternatives to litigation.
View MoreFamily Support
Coaching, referral and planning for all aspects of dealing with your new life.
View MoreGuardianship & Administration
Guardians or administrators are appointed to make decisions for individuals with disabilities who cannot do so themselves.
View MoreWe’re not your typical law firm – and that’s very intentional.
We genuinely care about helping you feel supported while you take the next step. Legal advice is only part of what people need during family law matters – you will also receive support from a calm, grounded team who’ll listen to your story, explain your options clearly, and give you honest advice you can actually use.
We’re known for being:
Warm and non-judgemental - no matter what your situation looks like
Realistic and clear from the start - we won’t give you false hope or scare tactics
Flexible with how we meet - in-person in Ballarat, over the phone, or online
Transparent about fees - so you know what things cost before you commit
Experienced in complex matters - whether there’s high conflict, tricky finances, or international elements
Meet Joanna Birtles
Joanna Birtles
Consultant
Joanna Birtles is a Ballarat local who brings a calm, thoughtful approach to family law. She has helped clients across Victoria navigate separation, parenting arrangements, and property matters with clarity and compassion. Joanna understands that no two families are the same, and she takes the time to listen before offering practical, grounded advice.
Joanna offers in-person consultations in Ballarat and, with the rest of the Umbrella team, offers flexible support wherever clients are based.
Joanna’s clients say the same thing: she makes a tough process feel just that little bit easier.
Tanya, Alfredton
David, Mount Helen
We offer support that works around real life
Our team supports families right here in Ballarat and across regional Victoria
We’ve always called Melbourne home, but supporting people across regional Victoria has long been part of what we do. Now with a dedicated office in Ballarat and a local lawyer on the ground, we’re making it even easier to get the help you need – in person, by phone, or online. Whatever works for you.
Not sure where to start? That’s okay - we'll walk you through it.
Frequently asked questions
QHow do I know if I need a family lawyer?
If you’re going through a separation, sorting out parenting arrangements, dividing property, or just not sure what your next step is – it’s worth having a chat with a lawyer. Even just one conversation can make things feel clearer.
QCan I sort things out without going to court?
Most of the time, yes. A lot of people want to avoid court – and we agree. We focus on finding practical, fair solutions through negotiation and clear agreements. Court is usually a last resort.
QHow much does it cost to speak to a family lawyer?
Your initial consultation runs for about an hour and can be held in-person, over the phone, or via video call — whatever suits you best.
For a fixed fee of $395, you’ll meet with a family lawyer who will listen to what’s going on, provide practical legal advice tailored to your situation, and help you understand your options. They’ll also walk you through the likely next steps and explain the costs involved, so you can make informed decisions without any hidden surprises later on.
It’s a chance to feel heard, ask questions, and get a clear plan for moving forward.
QCan I see someone face-to-face in Ballarat?
Yes, absolutely. Our local lawyer, Joanna Birtles, meets clients in person at our serviced office in central Ballarat. You can also meet with her by phone or online if that’s easier for you.
QCan you help if there's family violence?
We can. These situations are incredibly difficult, and we’ll treat yours with the care and urgency it deserves. We can also point you toward the right support services and help with safety planning if needed.