Media
The official media hub for Umbrella Family Law
Featured
We’re proud to be recognised as thought leaders in family law, regularly featured across print, radio, podcasts, and digital media. Our team is passionate about sharing expert insights on topics like separation, pet custody, blended families, and the emotional realities behind legal issues. If you’re a journalist, producer or podcast host looking for a fresh perspective, we’re available for interviews, article contributions, and media commentary. Reach out to us at theteam@umbrellafamilylaw.com.au – we’d love to chat.
Beyond Ownership: Eve Smith Discusses Pet Welfare in Family Law on RNZ
Eve Smith, co-founder of Umbrella Family Law, joins RNZ's Nights programme to explore how Australian courts are shifting focus from mere ownership to the welfare of pets in separation cases. This discussion highlights the emotional bonds between individuals and their pets and considers whether New Zealand should adopt similar legal perspectives.
Pets Recognised Beyond Ownership in Family Law | Eve Smith Featured on ABC News
In this ABC News feature by Kellie Scott, Eve Smith from Umbrella Family Law explains how courts are beginning to consider more than just ownership when deciding who keeps the pet after a separation. These changes reflect the emotional significance of pets in Australian families.
Pet Custody Laws Australia | Eve Smith on 9News
Eve Smith, co-founder of Umbrella Family Law, discusses the upcoming changes to Australia's Family Law Act that will consider the welfare of pets in separation cases. Featured on 9News, Eve highlights the emotional bonds between people and their pets and the importance of these legal reforms.
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Horse Custody After Separation
Who gets the horse after a breakup? In this feature for Horse Deals magazine, family lawyer (and horse lover) Eve Smith explains how pet custody agreements can help protect your relationship with your four-legged family members - especially when they're not just pets, but part of your lifestyle. A must-read for equestrians navigating separation.
- Podcast
Breaking the Stigma Around Family Law
Seeking legal advice doesn’t have to mean conflict. On The Chatty Curator Podcast, Jane Libbis from Umbrella Family Law chats about the misconceptions people have about family lawyers — and why reaching out early can lead to clarity, confidence, and even reconciliation. This warm and honest conversation shows what lawyers who truly care can bring to the table.
- Podcast
Holistic Family Law and Healing After Separation
In this uplifting episode of Bend Like Bamboo, Jane Libbis, co-founder of Umbrella Family Law, shares how a holistic approach to family law helps clients move through separation with clarity, confidence, and care. Jane and host Amanda Campbell explore emotional recovery, rebuilding after divorce, and why legal support should go beyond the courtroom. A must-listen for anyone seeking a more compassionate path through family breakdown.
Who Keeps the Fur Baby After a Breakup?
Umbrella Family Law co-founder Eve Smith was featured in The Sydney Morning Herald discussing a growing issue in modern separations: pet custody.
- Podcast
The Wedding Guide Podcast: Prenups and love with Jane Libbis
Jane speaks with Pete the Celebrant about legal options for couples including prenuptial agreements and how couples can set themselves up for a successful marriage. Jane offers clear, compassionate advice for couples wanting to start their marriage with confidence, clarity, and mutual respect. Whether you're engaged, newly married, or curious about your legal options as a couple, this episode is full of insights.
Pets and Divorce: Legal Insights on ABC Radio
As more Australians consider pets part of the family, pet custody is becoming a hot topic in separation. On ABC Radio National Drive, Jane Libbis explains how the law approaches companion animals in divorce, and what separating couples can do to make calm, considered decisions when emotions (and tails) are high.
Who Gets the Dog in a Divorce?
Pets are family — but Australian law hasn’t always seen it that way. In this The Age article, Jane Libbis explains the legal grey area around pet custody in divorce. From how courts currently treat companion animals to what changes could be coming, this article sheds light on one of the most emotionally charged aspects of separation.
How new laws could cater for disputes over pets
As society increasingly recognises pets as family, the law is slowly catching up. In this Lawyers Weekly feature, Umbrella Family Law’s Special Counsel Briony Robertson shares her expert insights into proposed changes that could reshape how pet disputes are handled in family law matters. She discusses the emotional weight of these decisions and how courts might better reflect the reality of modern families.
How to Avoid Disaster When Starting a Family Business
Eve Smith shares tips on how to start a family business without risking relationships or legal complications in Inside Small Business
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Leading with Empathy in Law
On The Sales Revolution Podcast, Jane Libbis shares how she built a purpose-led law firm that balances compassion with commerciality. From setting clear boundaries to cultivating a values-aligned network, Jane reflects on what makes Umbrella Family Law stand out in a traditionally rigid industry.
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Blended Families, Step-Parenting & Parenting Plans
In this insightful In the blend podcast episode, Jane Libbis - unpacks the complexities of parenting in blended families. From children's living arrangements and step-sibling dynamics to court considerations and communication strategies, Jane shares compassionate, practical advice for navigating modern family life after separation.